Hampden Run Park

Park Overview

Situated in Aurora sits Hampden Run Park, a cozy 1.4-acre green escape that offers an ideal breather from city life. The space balances active play areas with quieter spots for when you just need to sit and recharge.

What struck us immediately was how clean and well-kept everything is. Nestled among residential streets, it's basically a backyard extension for nearby families.

Playground and Fun Stuff

The playground here isn't your average swing-and-slide setup. Relatively new and impressively modern, it features some unique climbing structures that will keep the kiddos entertained. Multiple slides and climbing challenges accommodate different age groups and adventure levels.

Children between 4-8 years old seem to enjoy the distinctive tower structure with its various climbing elements. The selection of swings includes a net swing that's usually worth waiting your turn for.

The park includes an outdoor music area where children (and let's be honest, adults too) can experiment with xylophones and other instruments. It's an interactive element that engages a different kind of play.

Trail Connections

Hampden Run connects directly to the Toll Gate Creek Trail, opening up miles of Aurora's green network. This connection allows you to turn a park visit into a longer walk or bike ride.

The park also opens onto a lovely canal-side trail, giving you more options to explore beyond the main grounds. These connecting paths provide options to extend your time outdoors beyond the playground area.

Facilities and Layout

The park includes a turf area that's great for running around or impromptu games, plus several picnic tables that make this spot ideal for casual family meals or weekend lunches. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful layout - plenty of seating and some nicely shaded areas provide comfortable spots to watch the kids play.

With safety in mind, there's a fence separating the playground from the nearby busy street - one less thing for parents to worry about. There's also a scooter run, but it's worth noting it sits fairly close to the seating areas.

One thing to keep in mind: there are no restrooms on-site, so you might want to plan accordingly if you're thinking of spending several hours here. Parking is also somewhat limited in the immediate vicinity.

Accessibility

The park features handicap-accessible entrances, making it welcoming for everyone. And if hunger strikes, you're in luck - several fast-food options are just a short walk away when you need a quick snack or meal.