Best Sensory-Friendly Experiences: Savannah’s Playground

I have so many photos of my son at playgrounds around the country. It didn’t matter where we were traveling, we were going to seek out a playground.

We’ve been to wooden ones, vintage ones and modernized ones, but never have I seen a playground as beautiful as Savannah’s Playground in The Market Common.

About Savannah’s Playground

Savannah’s Playground is located near The Market Common at Grand Park. It open to the public daily and is free to visit.

Savannah's Playground is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., May through September.  Each Tuesday is maintenance day, so Savannah’s Playground opens later at 12:00 p.m. Hours are shorter during off-season months, so check the City of Myrtle Beach website or Savannah’s Playground Facebook page for current hours before visiting.

It is fabulous for kids of all types, but especially those with special needs. This playground was developed and designed with a special person in mind, Savannah Thompson, who has Williams Syndrome.

In March 2026, Savannah’s Playground reopened following a major renovation and expansion that added new designs, synthetic turf, a climbing wall, a wheelchair swing and other improvements. The multi-acre playground is filled with ADA-accessible equipment and is designed for children of all ages and abilities. Play areas include an early childhood playground, school-age playground and interactive playground.

There is also a section called Harmony Music Park, which encourages creativity and music making right on the spot. Other specialized features include adaptive swings, ziplining, climbing structures and sensory-friendly play elements.

An aerial view of Savannah’s Playground following its recent renovation and expansion.

The Playground Experience

There are many specialized details at this park that are good for any kind of child. Throughout the playground, children will find opportunities to engage their eyes, ears and hands while climbing, swinging, spinning and exploring.

Near the parking lot is a garden maintained by the Myrtle Beach Gardening Club. Its main purpose is to provide a sensory experience of texture, color and scent, while also adding plenty of beauty to the area.

If your child likes slides, there are plenty of choices, including straight slides, tunnel slides and spiral slides. Climbing structures are available in a variety of heights and styles.

Sit-and-spin structures are available in several areas of the park. If you’d like to experience some spinning or rocking with your child, a few of these rides easily fit bigger kids like yourself!

Another helpful design feature is the abundance of shaded areas and benches throughout the playground. Families also have access to four permanent accessible restrooms with changing stations, a water fountain and bottle-refill station. The recent improvements also included additional safety features around the playground and pond area.

Food & Other Nearby Activities

It’s guaranteed that your little ones are going to get hungry, but you may not have to go far to find food. Southern Scoops & Treats, a local food truck, is often found near Savannah’s Playground and offers sweet treats and snacks. Availability may vary, so it’s a good idea to check before your visit.

The Market Common also offers plenty of restaurants just a short distance away.

Another advantage to this fabulous location is that more independent family members can visit the stores, catch a movie, go bowling or walk around the lakes. They may even catch a softball or soccer game while family members are at the playground. Options abound!