If you have children, the best playground in the area might be Lunken Playfield’s “The Land of Make Believe.” Right next to Lunken Airport (across from the soccer fields and driving range), this playground features a secure location (surrounded by a fence), and heavily shaded play areas with foam cushions for safety, picnic tables, benches, and an air-conditioned building with restrooms and a concession stand.  Admission?  One dollar per child.

But The Land of Make Believe is not a neighborhood playground.  There is not really a residential area near the location.  The only way to get to the playground is through having access to transportation.  And, as mentioned above, the Cincinnati Recreation Commission charges cash to be granted the privilege to play.

Not that I have a problem with the dollar fee.  While I have not checked, it is easy to believe the money goes for keeping the grounds and facilities superior.  And the trees really are great.  These aren’t new trees, still staked to the ground.  These well established trees tower over the playground, providing a comprehensive canopy to shade even the hottest of Summer afternoons.  One needs not worry as much about sunscreen, heat exhaustion, and other such inconveniences and maladies when protected by the trees in the Land of Make Believe.

But how many kids, I wonder, cannot ever make it to such a playground?  I do not wish to politicize the point.  I’m just making an observation, really—the fact that I know a great place to play, and that many kids who need such a place will never be able to find their way.

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