Dennis the Menace Park
777 Pearl St., Monterey, California
Slides, a climbing wall, a maze, and other features invite active play at this Monterey landmark. The park was designed by Hank Ketcham, the creator of the mischievous character the playground is named for. While the 1924 steam train that kids once scrambled over is now fenced off, there’s still plenty of fun to be had here.
Dennis the Menace Park is part of the 45-acre (18-hectare) El Estero Park Complex, an area that also includes a snack bar, fishing piers, paddle boats, an exercise course, a skate park, and a dog park. Within the playground itself, find activities suited to a wide range of ages. Adults can play along, or relax on the benches strategically located around the playground.
The playground is free to access.
Plan to wear sturdy shoes here. There are natural surfaces including sand in the playground.
This is a great destination for high-energy kids. Plenty of open space means room to run and play.
The playground is located at 777 Pearl Street in Monterey. A bus stop is a short distance away on Pearl Street, with service from bus number #56. Free parking is available on-site, and walking trails link Dennis the Menace Park to the rest of El Estero Park Complex.
From June through August, Dennis the Menace Park is open daily until dusk. From September through May, the playground is open Wednesday to Monday (and closed on non-holiday Tuesdays). While it would be easy to stop by for an hour of play, many visitors spend a few hours here.
Even the youngest travelers love the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where exhibits and hands-on activities offer hours of fun. Take a walk to Point Sur Lighthouse, or head to Monterey Zoo in Salinas to meet animals, including retired circus entertainers. On rainy days when you’re looking for indoor entertainment for young children, check out the Monterey County Youth Museum.
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