KIDS MARKET COURTYARD PLAYGROUND

This cube shaped climbing structure appeared in the Kids Market courtyard on Granville Island after they revamped their courtyard in early 2020. I’m not sure if this qualifies as a playground but it definitely is a public, outdoor play area that warrants a mention. And if you’re one that appreciates landscape architecture, the bright red ropes nicely match the existing red accents of the area, including the red dome at the adjacent Crystal Ark shop.

With only this climbing structure and a few wooden platforms, it’s a quick stop compared to the two other playgrounds, Railspur Park and Sutcliffe Park, found on Granville Island. Hot tip: this climbing cube is the perfect thing to lure kids out of the market if they’re still insistent on buying one more toy, after you’ve already supported all the small businesses in there.

One danger to note is that this courtyard is right next to an open pond. There isn’t much of a barrier preventing a Curious George from becoming an Sponge Bob Square Pants. There’s a ramp that leads down to a small dock and although the ramp itself has a good grip, the deck is plain wood and can be slippery. I have watched my child run down and slip onto their butt and my eyes almost fell out. Mind you, the pond isn’t too deep but it’s not like anyone wants to go jump into a pond full of bird and turtle poop to rescue their offspring.