Safari
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
1–2 hours
Best Ages
2–12 years
About
Safari is a free, safari-themed playground located in Tukwila, Washington, part of the city's parks system. The playground stands out from generic play structures through its themed equipment — climbing structures and play elements designed with a safari adventure aesthetic that sparks imaginative play alongside physical activity.
The playground caters to kids ages 2–12, with equipment ranging from gentle climbing options for toddlers to more challenging structures for older kids. The open layout gives children room to move freely and parents easy sightlines to supervise without feeling crowded or confined. Stroller access is straightforward, and the surrounding area provides space for picnicking or relaxing while kids play.
Located in Tukwila near the Southcenter corridor, the playground benefits from an accessible suburban location with convenient proximity to dining, shopping, and other family attractions. Southcenter Mall's food court is just minutes away, and the Tukwila Family Fun Center is nearby for families who want to extend their outing with indoor activities.
For families staying in south King County or visiting Seattle and based near the airport (Sea-Tac is just minutes from Tukwila), Safari playground offers a convenient, no-cost way to let kids decompress, especially useful as a pre-flight or post-arrival activity when families need outdoor time without the logistics of driving into Seattle.
The playground is less well-known than comparable Seattle city parks, which translates to shorter lines and less crowding during peak family-activity hours — a meaningful advantage for parents who want a calmer experience.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
likely no
Kid Meals
snacks only
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings in spring and summer; dry days only
Wait Times
No waits; open public playground
Nearby Food
Southcenter Mall (5 minutes away) has a large food court with diverse options. Tukwila has numerous fast-casual and family restaurant options along the Southcenter corridor.
Why Kids Love It
A spacious, safari-themed playground in Tukwila with large climbing structures, slides, and open space. The themed equipment gives it a sense of adventure that basic playgrounds lack, and the open layout means parents can relax while kids roam freely.
From Reddit Parents
“Heaven Sent Fried chicken is just the fucking best. And I think about Junebaby’s biscuits all the time.”
Pro Tips from Parents
- Best visited in dry weather — the equipment can be slippery when wet
- Tukwila's location near Southcenter Mall makes it easy to combine with shopping or a meal
- Less well-known than Seattle city playgrounds, which means shorter lines and more equipment availability
- Bring a picnic — there are shaded areas nearby ideal for lunch
What to Bring
- Snacks and water bottles
- Sunscreen for sunny days
- Comfortable shoes for climbing
- A picnic blanket for a post-play lunch
Cost Info
Free Admission
Admission Prices
- Adult
- $6
Tips to Save
- Completely free.
- Tukwila's park system is underrated — this playground is often less crowded than comparable Seattle parks.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 10AM-8:30PM
- Monday
- 10AM-8:30PM
- Sunday
- 11AM-7PM
- Tuesday
- 10AM-8:30PM
- Saturday
- 10AM-8:30PM
- Thursday
- 10AM-8:30PM
- Wednesday
- 10AM-8:30PM