We recently made our first family outing to a play park with my less-than-a-year old son and his 15-month-old cousin.  What could be better than enjoying an unseasonably warm, sunny day outdoors listening to children laugh?

While it’s a bundle-up kind of day today, I’m told we’ll be back into the 70s by this weekend.  Jacksonville offers great weather year-round to enjoy the outdoors and its expansive parks system takes full advantage it.  JaxParks offers play parks, picnic grounds, oceanfront views, athletic facilities and more.  When you throw in the National Parks System Jacksonville features more than 111,000 acres of places to explore and play. 

On this particular beautiful day, we headed for South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground at Jacksonville Beach.  There is a great toddler area for my little guy.  He explored tunnels, slides and a wobbly rubber bridge.  Of course there are swings for kids both young and old - even a tire swing where I saw an entire family squeeze into for a sweet lovin’ ride.  And this park is perfect for all families.  There are grills, picnic shelters, fitness trails, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts and of course, tons of playground fun.

Spring is around the corner, so make sure you get out there and play.  And if you’re tired of being indoors all week after a chilly spell get out there now.  Like I said shorts weather is on the way. 

Not in the mood for swings?  Check-out one of Jacksonville’s historical parks in the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve.  Kingsley Plantation kicks-off its 11th Annual Kingsley Heritage Celebration this weekend.  This Saturday from noon to 4:30 p.m. there will be drumming and storytelling performances.  And every Saturday in February there will be something new to experience. 

So, no more excuses.  Pack up the kids (or not), bring a picnic lunch (or take a trip through the old drive-thru) and take advantage of our beautiful Florida weather.  If you were up North it would be snowing!