In 2019 , the playground was hit hard by a natural disaster , which led to the decision to upgrade the space .
“ During the tornado of 2019 , some of the playground equipment took it really tough ,” explained Falls Park Director Aaron Burris . “ We were faced with the dilemma of piece meal the playground back together for a much lower cost or bring the space up to current times and address the inclusivity that was sorely lacking with the old set up . Obviously , we opted for the latter .”
Because the park ’ s mission is to be the reason people live , play and visit Pendleton , Burris said the playground project checked all of those boxes .
The new space is a sight to behold . There ’ s a separate play area for 2- to 5-year-olds that features inclusive swings , an omni spinner , a play structure , plate spinners and more . The 5- to 12-year-old / upper ability play zone incorporates a large play structure and a ropes obstacle course with a 20-foot-high climbing net . Musical instruments such as chimes , drums and xylophones encourage creative play . Padded , shock absorbing surfaces and artificial turf give parents peace of mind .
“ Installing this new playground has allowed us the opportunity to add inclusive elements for children of all ages and abilities ,” Burris explained .
Past playground visitors will also notice a familiar sight as they enter the playground .
“ We incorporated into the playground the existing lending library , which was created using a tree that was destroyed in the tornado of 2019 ,” said Burris .
After you ’ ve experienced the playground , there ’ s still much more to do at the park . A 3.5-mile trail system takes visitors over the falls to an old log cabin and red barn at the northern end of the park . The trail winds back along Prairie Creek to Falls Bark Dog Park , a place for visitors to bring their furry friends for play dates . The trails also join up with a segment of the historic “ Bee-Line ” railway line , which is a draw for both train and history enthusiasts . And be sure to look for wildlife like white-tailed deer , blue herons , or pileated woodpeckers throughout the park .
“ We also have a half mile paved loop around Barnhart Field ,” said Burris . “ This is great for kids to ride bikes or roller blade along . You ’ ll find a mailbox filled with chalk to create artwork on your way around .”
If you ’ re visiting the park from May through the end of October , stop in at the Pendleton Historical Museum , open on Saturdays and Sundays only . Photographs , artifacts and historic memorabilia tell the story of the park , the falls , and the town of Pendleton . The building itself , which once served as the bathhouse at the park- -is an historic treasure .
While you ’ re in the area , take a short walk down the street for coffee and a sweet treat at Falls Perk Coffee House , where you can grab your favorite caffeinated ( or non-caffeinated ) drink from the menu . If you ’ re watching your sugar intake , you ’ ll be pleasantly surprised by the shop ’ s extensive selection of sugar-free syrups . Next door at Nellie Faye ’ s , browse for vintage décor treasures and one-of-a-kind handmade gifts .
And don ’ t forget to grab brunch or lunch just steps away from the park at Invited to the Table . The restaurant ’ s signature savory and sweet Belgian “ Liege ” waffles have become a favorite around town .
Around the corner , you ’ ll find even more great restaurants and charming shops up and down State Street . You can easily spend a memorable day playing , eating and shopping your way around Pendleton !
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