Brooklyn Playground Tour: Colonel David Marcus Playground

Welcome to our series that takes a look at playgrounds around Brooklyn! Searching for a fun new spot to explore with the kids? From innovative, interactive playspaces to traditional (but equally fun!) spots, we’ll guide you through the many awesome playground choices in our borough.

This week, we headed to Midwood’s Colonel David Marcus Playground. Just past Avenue P and nestled between Ocean Parkway and East 4th Street, this playground is a popular spot catering to a diverse community.

There are three sections to Colonel David Marcus Playground: the playset area, a handball and basketball court, and a large, mix-use hardtop diamond — perfect for roller hockey or learning how to ride a bike. This isn’t a park for free roaming though. The three sections are separated by two streets, and while the playground area is completely surrounded by a gate, the entrances are usually left open during the day. With the park’s close proximity to Ocean Parkway, this sometimes poses a challenge if you have a wandering kid.

That said, Colonel David Marcus Playground is a park made for running out energy. The playground area is large with two playsets on either end and a small water feature between them. On the weekends, the park can get busy, but most days there are just enough kids that you can keep track of yours as she runs back and forth between the playsets.

There are bathrooms available, although they tend to be maintained to the bare minimum of acceptability. Otherwise, there are few options in the neighborhood for bathroom breaks. There are some food options just around the corner from the playground along Avenue P, and an ice cream truck that’s often parked on East 4th throughout the day.

A well-maintained park that has just recently undergone some repairs including resurfacing and a new handball court, perhaps Colonel David Marcus Playground’s best feature is that it’s a quiet park with ample natural shade, and plenty of benches.

Interested in checking out Colonel David Marcus Playground with your kids? Pack your blanket and some snacks to watch a free screening of The Boxtrolls on the evening of Monday, August 24.

What’s your favorite playground in Brooklyn? Share the details in the comments, or by emailing us at editor@bklyner.com and we may feature it in our next playground profile.