Tell Your Kids to Get Their Zoomies Out on These American-made Playsets

When it comes to backyard swing sets, there are plenty of Made in America options.

The weather’s getting warmer, and with it comes more outdoor play opportunities for kids. In an era of screen time, being able to go outdoors and exercise is extremely important. When I was growing up, one of my favorite ways to play outside was on swing sets. These mini playgrounds can give your kids hours of fun exercise and play. If you’re thinking of investing in a playset for your home, there are lots of Made in USA options. And stay tuned to the end for bonus options for smaller babies and toddlers!

Green Tree Swingsets & Playhouses

Green Tree sells your classic playsets. You know the ones: wooden structures with climbing walls, swings and a slide that’s either blue or green. Hey, if it’s not broken, don’t fix it! Each set is made in Pennsylvania by Amish craftsmen, so you know you’re getting a high-quality piece that’ll last longer than just one summer. Plus, unlike many other swing set companies, Green Tree uses Southern Yellow Pine sourced in the United States! This nostalgic choice will excite your kids for years to come. (Keep in mind that Green Tree doesn’t serve every state and you’ll have to call to make a purchase.)

Playstar

Playstar, based in Janesville, Wis., sells a variety of playsets. There’s the classic options, but there’s also some extremely elaborate alternatives. The Cliff-Hanger sets focus entirely on climbing, featuring monkey bars, ropes and a variety of climbing walls. There’s also the Ninja Playsets that emphasize skill and balance, and can be adjusted as your kids grow. And there are options that combine all three styles. You can customize these playsets to fit the needs of your family. And all are Made in the USA with domestically sourced lumber.

Triumph Play Systems

The playsets made by Triumph Play Systems in Ashburnham, Mass. are far simpler than other options. The company’s material of choice – northern white cedar – gives these playsets a distinct, lighter look. It also allows Triumph to source its wood domestically, from Northern Vermont and Maine. There are also a multitude of playset customization options, including an arched climbing wall, a diamond bridge and a picnic table. (Not all of Triumph’s play sets are marked as Made in USA, remember to check labels on the website.)

Pinecraft

Amish woodcrafters are well known for their work ethic and attention to detail. All of that is evident in the playsets from Pinecraft, which offers perhaps some of the most unique options on the market. Of course, you will still find your typical playset models. You can also choose from a pirate ship, a princess castle, a helicopter and more! Pinecraft is a retailer located in the Sarasota, Fla. Amish community of the same name, but Amish woodworkers across the country contribute to building these timeless playsets. (Pinecraft also offers kids’ furniture, patio furniture and even pet furniture.)

Ruffhouse

Arizona resident Tyler Ray had a problem: He wanted a playset for his kids, but wooden playsets didn’t seem safe to play on in the summer heat. He couldn’t find a good alternative, decided to make his own and that’s how Ruffhouse Vinyl Play Systems got its start. Using vinyl instead of wood allows these playsets to be weatherproof, staying impervious to rain and extremely hot weather. It’s also splinter free, which will help decrease possible injuries. Plus, they’ve got a very unique look! A great option, especially in hot climates

The above are all great outdoor options. But what if you want to introduce playsets to very young kids who aren’t ready to play outside on the bigger sets? Consider the offerings from two small and indoor alternatives:

Little Tikes

Little Tikes is probably a modern classic baby toy brand. And although its Made in USA slides and climbing sets can definitely not be considered “swing sets,” they’re a great way to introduce the concept to babies. The slides are appropriately sized, and there’s even an outdoor option that includes water spraying jets. Just keep in mind that not everything Little Tikes sells is Made in the USA, so check labels and go to the Made in USA section on the website. There are lots of other domestically produced toys to choose from.

Simplay3

Are your kids too old for a Little Tikes slide but too young for a full playset? Simplay3’s mini plastic playsets are a great option. Simplay3 was founded by Tom Murdough, who also happens to be the founder of Little Tikes! However, unlike Little Tikes, Simplay3 is 100% Made in the USA. The play structures up for purchase are elaborate, featuring playhouses, bridges and (of course) slides. And there’s even more Made in USA toy fun to choose from on the rest of the website!

The Alliance for American Manufacturing does not receive a commission from purchases made through the above links, nor was the organization or author paid for favorable coverage.

Labeling Note: This story is intended to highlight companies that support American jobs and that make great products in the United States. We rely on the companies listed to provide accurate information regarding their domestic operations and their products. Each company featured is individually responsible for labeling and advertising their products according to applicable standards, such as the Federal Trade Commission’s “Made in USA” standard or California’s “Made in USA” labeling law. We do not review individual products for compliance or claim that because a company is listed in the guide that their products comply with specific labeling or advertising standards. Our focus is on supporting companies that create American jobs.

For more on the Federal Trade Commission’s standards for “Made in USA” claims and California’s “Made in USA” labeling law, please also read this guest post by Dustin Painter and Kristi Wolff of Kelly Drye & Warren, LLP.