When you’re sitting at home looking for something to do during the day, oftentimes the last place people think about is a public park.

I want to challenge that thought process and ask, why?

Maybe you’re thinking parks are only designed for kids and families, but I want to assure you that parks are designed for people of all ages.

While most parks feature a playground for kids, there are still so many other activities that adults can enjoy. Nearly every park has some form of a walking trail where people of all ages can take a beautiful stroll. If you’re looking for something a bit more active, you can play tennis or pickleball at the various courts scattered throughout Sumner and Robertson counties.

Parks are designed to accommodate a wide variety of people because their purpose is to provide a space where everyone can get outside and have some fun.

Maybe you’re thinking your town is too small to have anything fun to do, but that simply isn’t true. Whether you live in a small town like Cross Plains or a larger city like Hendersonville, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy yourself.

Take Cross Plains, for example. A town with fewer than 2,000 residents, it has a beautiful park located behind East Robertson High School. Kilgore Park features two playgrounds, a baseball complex, a beautiful creek you can swim in, and so much more.

Larger communities such as Springfield, Hendersonville, and Gallatin have even more to offer. Their Parks & Recreation departments have worked hard to create spaces where residents can relax, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors.

In Hendersonville, Veterans Park features an inclusive playground, giving children of all abilities a place to play together. In Gallatin, the Gallatin Civic Center offers a full water park where residents can cool off on a hot summer day.

So don’t let the size of your town stop you from going outside and having some fun!

The best part? Spending time outdoors comes with plenty of benefits. Studies have shown that time outside can help reduce anxiety and depression, boost your mood, and provide your body with much-needed vitamin D.

So why wouldn’t you want to spend some time enjoying your local parks?

I’m not saying that every time you’re bored you should head to your local park. What I am saying is to consider doing something outside. You don’t have to drive all the way to Gatlinburg to have a great time in the outdoors.

Sometimes your next adventure is just a few minutes from home.