Kherson Park

Space-Themed Playground

Found in downtown Kent, Washington, Kherson Park is a one-of-a-kind space-themed playground that opened its doors in May 2023. This compact park highlights Kent's connection to space exploration history - particularly Boeing's work designing and building Lunar Roving Vehicles for NASA's Apollo missions back in the late 1960s.

Despite its modest size, the park offers several detailed, interactive elements. One cool feature is the bouncy rubber flooring covering half the park - designed to mimic the sensation of walking on the moon while keeping kids safe as they play.

Interactive Play Elements

The main attraction is the life-size Lunar Rover replica crafted by Cre8Play. Kids can hop in and transform into astronauts on their very own moon mission. The rover comes complete with intricate decals and working parts, but the control yoke occasionally needs a bit of TLC from maintenance crews.

Right next to the rover sits a lunar lander play structure built at half-scale of the actual spacecraft. It's surprisingly accessible with multiple entry points - a springy platform, ladder-like landing legs, and even a ground-level tunnel. What's really nice is how roomy it is inside, making it easy for parents to join little ones during playtime adventures.

Immersive Space Experience

Want a fun photo op? The park features a life-size astronaut suit where you can stick your face in the helmet for a memorable picture. There's also an interactive mission control panel that kids absolutely love - it's equipped with working switches, lights, sounds, and even an intercom system that broadcasts their voices outside, creating a genuine space communication experience.

The imaginative play reaches new heights thanks to a 40-foot-wide backdrop featuring a digitally modified vintage NASA moon surface photo. It really helps create that feeling of being in a lunar environment.

Park Design & Amenities

Across the park, you'll find several Orbit picnic tables where you can take a break while keeping an eye on the kids. There are about four tables available, but keep in mind that most don't have shade coverage - which means those metal surfaces can get pretty hot on sunny days.

It's worth noting that there aren't any restroom facilities on-site. Also, some structures might require closer supervision, especially when children climb to higher sections of the lunar lander where the spaces between safety elements might be challenging for some kids.

Technology Integration

An additional feature is the tech integration through a Boeing-sponsored augmented reality app called Space for Kidz. This free app lets you use your smartphone to engage in virtual activities like launching rockets, driving a Lunar Rover, and planting flags on the moon's surface - adding another layer of fun to your visit.

Sometimes local elementary school students are around to help visitors download and use the app, which adds a nice community touch to the experience.

Educational Value

Though it may not be the biggest park around, Kherson Park offers an educational experience about local history and might spark an interest in STEM fields for young visitors. It showcases the engineering culture of the Seattle area and Kent's contributions to lunar exploration.

With its innovative design and interactive elements featuring functional electronics throughout the structures, this unique destination is fantastic for families with children ranging from toddlers to elementary school age who enjoy creative, imagination-driven play centered around space adventures.