Top Playground Trends for 2025: What Communities in the Southeast Are Asking For
As communities across the Southeast continue to invest in outdoor spaces, the playgrounds of 2025 are evolving to meet new needs, preferences, and play styles. At Struthers Recreation, we’re proud to represent GameTime—the national leader in innovative and inclusive playground equipment—and to help schools, parks, and neighborhoods across the region create meaningful places to play. Here are the top playground trends we’re seeing take shape in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida Panhandle, Louisiana, and beyond.
1. Nature-Inspired Playgrounds
Natural elements are making a big comeback in playground design. Families and educators are seeking outdoor spaces that connect kids with nature while encouraging imaginative play. GameTime’s Nature-Inspired Play line blends realistic rock climbers, log steppers, and treehouse elements with traditional play value. These designs are not only beautiful—they also promote sensory exploration and social interaction.
2. Playgrounds That Promote Physical Fitness
Communities are more focused than ever on promoting health and wellness at every age. That’s why we’re seeing a rise in outdoor fitness equipment and playgrounds designed to support full-body movement. GameTime’s Challenge Courses and Youth Fitness Equipment provide obstacle-style fun that builds strength, agility, and cardiovascular health for children, teens, and even adults. It’s play with a purpose—and a big appeal for multigenerational parks.
3. Inclusive and Accessible Play
Creating play environments where all children can play together is no longer optional—it’s essential. We’re helping schools and cities across the Southeast install fully inclusive playgrounds designed with input from child development experts and accessibility specialists. GameTime’s inclusive equipment supports children with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to climb, spin, slide, and socialize.
4. Cooler Playgrounds with Shade and Surfacing
With our hot Southern climate, shaded play is a must. More communities are adding integrated shade structures and cool-to-the-touch materials to keep kids safe and comfortable. In 2025, we’re also seeing an increase in synthetic turf safety surfacing that offers durability, low maintenance, and accessibility.
5. Customized, Community-Centered Design
No two communities are the same—and playgrounds shouldn’t be either. Whether it's honoring a local school mascot, incorporating city colors, or designing around an existing landscape, customization is a huge trend for 2025. At Struthers Recreation, we work closely with GameTime’s designers to create themed and site-specific playgrounds that reflect the spirit of each neighborhood or school.
Ready to Bring These Trends to Your Community?
At Struthers Recreation, we’re proud to partner with GameTime to bring cutting-edge playgrounds to cities and schools throughout the Southeast. Whether you’re just starting to plan or ready to build, we can help you create a space that reflects the best of what play can be in 2025—and beyond.
👉 Let’s build something amazing together. Contact us today or explore our Playground Gallery to get inspired.
