- Attraction: Mary’s Magical Place
- Location: 242 W Main St, Hendersonville, TN 37075
- Industry: Playground
- Website: Veterans Park- Mary’s Magical Place Playground
Imagine a place where a child using a wheelchair can experience the pure joy of swinging for the first time.
At Mary’s Magical Place in Hendersonville, this isn’t just a heartwarming possibility—it’s an everyday reality. This 15,000-square-foot playground, which opened in September 2018, represents Sumner County’s first truly all-inclusive recreational space where children of all abilities can play side by side.
The playground honors Mary Elizabeth McAuley, a young girl whose infectious smile touched countless lives in the Hendersonville community despite never being able to access traditional playgrounds due to cerebral palsy.
After her passing in 2015 at age 14, her family and community came together over three years to design and fund this extraordinary space. What emerged is far more than a playground—it’s a testament to what communities can achieve when they prioritize inclusion and accessibility for everyone.
Play Features That Welcome Everyone
The Ramped Play Structure: You’ll discover that nearly every corner of this playground connects through wide, gently sloped ramps. The fully ramped PlayBooster structure brings wheelchairs and walkers right into the heart of the action, eliminating the frustration of watching from the sidelines. Your child can travel the entire expanse of the playground without ever encountering a barrier.
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Keep Exploring →Liberty Swing Experience: This specially designed swing accommodates children who remain in their wheelchairs, offering them the thrilling sensation of soaring through the air without the need for transfers. The swing has become one of the playground’s most beloved features, often drawing families from neighboring counties specifically for this experience.
Sway Fun Glider: Unlike traditional swings that require significant core strength and balance, this glider accommodates multiple children at once and provides a gentle, supported swaying motion. You’ll notice kids of varying abilities sharing this equipment together, creating natural opportunities for inclusive play.
Musical Instrument Display: The outdoor musical section features accessible instruments mounted at varying heights, allowing children to explore rhythm and melody through tactile play. These instruments respond to the lightest touch, making music creation possible for children with limited hand mobility.
OmniSpin Spinner: This innovative roundabout-style piece allows wheelchair users to roll directly onto the spinning platform. You’ll see children pushing each other for thrilling rides, with adaptive seating ensuring everyone stays secure during the fun.
Double ZipKrooz: Two parallel ziplines mean siblings and friends can race each other across the playground. The transfer platforms accommodate various mobility devices, and harness systems provide secure seating for children who need additional support.
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Discover MoreNetplex Structure: Designed specifically for 5- to 12-year-olds who crave climbing adventures, this rope-based structure offers challenges that develop strength and coordination. The varied entry points allow children to choose their own difficulty level.
Sensory-Rich Environment
Tactile Play Panels: Throughout the playground, you’ll encounter sensory panels featuring different textures, moving parts, and visual elements. These panels engage children with autism, sensory processing differences, or visual impairments, offering exploration opportunities that go beyond traditional climbing and sliding.
Sign Language Mural & Braille Boards: Educational elements are woven throughout the space, teaching all children about different communication methods. The sign language mural near the main structure has become a learning tool where kids practice signing with each other during play.
Cozy Dome: This enclosed space provides a quiet retreat when the stimulation of active play becomes overwhelming. You’ll find it’s equally popular with children who need sensory breaks and those who simply enjoy creating imaginative hideaways.
WeeSaw Balance Equipment: These accessible seesaws feature back support and secure seating, allowing children with balance challenges to experience the up-and-down motion safely. The design creates natural social interaction as kids work together to make the equipment move.
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Keep Exploring →Park Design & Accessibility Features
Playground Grass Surface: The entire playground sits on 15,000 square feet of specialized turf featuring anti-static technology. This cushioned surface provides fall protection while remaining firm enough for wheelchairs and walkers to navigate smoothly. Unlike traditional mulch or wood chips, this surface stays clean and level.
Shade Coverage: Solar shades stretch across significant portions of the playground, creating comfortable spaces even during Tennessee’s hot summer months. You’ll appreciate these shaded zones during midday visits when the sun is strongest.
Spacious Layout: The playground’s generous footprint means there’s room for everyone, even during busy weekend afternoons. Open areas between equipment clusters give children space to run freely while allowing caregivers clear sightlines throughout the park.
Restroom Facilities: The park includes clean, well-maintained restrooms featuring adult-sized changing tables—a crucial amenity often overlooked in public spaces. Parents of older children with disabilities particularly appreciate this thoughtful inclusion.
Practical Visitor Information
Admission & Hours: The playground is completely free and open from dawn to dusk year-round. There’s never an admission fee, making it an accessible option for families on any budget.
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Discover MoreDedicated Quiet Hours: Wednesday mornings from 8:00-10:00 AM and Sunday evenings from 6:00-8:00 PM are reserved specifically for children with special needs and their families. These dedicated hours offer a less crowded, quieter environment for children who find busy playgrounds overwhelming.
ADA Parking: Designated accessible parking spaces are located immediately adjacent to the playground entrance, minimizing the distance families need to travel from their vehicles.
Shelter Rentals: A covered picnic shelter with tables sits right next to the playground, perfect for birthday parties or family gatherings. Hendersonville residents can reserve it for $20 per hour, while non-residents pay $30 per hour.
Best Visit Times: Early morning visits around opening time tend to be quietest, ideal for children who prefer less crowded environments. Weekend afternoons draw the biggest crowds, creating an energetic, social atmosphere.
Rules to Note: To maintain the playground’s inclusive nature, pets and smoking are prohibited. These policies help protect children with allergies or respiratory sensitivities while keeping the play surfaces clean.
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Keep Exploring →Community Events: Throughout the year, Mary’s Magical Place hosts special events. Following their social media pages keeps you updated on everything from food truck visits to inclusive play days with organized activities.
Mary’s Magical Place
📍 242 W Main St, Hendersonville, TN 37075
