Published pricing
ADA-accessible themed downtown playground with imaginative Peter Pan elements beside the main library in Elmwood Park.
Needs recheckFixed locationAll-abilities parks
C. Darrell Shell Park
Roanoke, VA
Large accessible playground behind Penn Forest Elementary with parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and a walking loop in southwest Roanoke.
Quick facts
Price
Free public park.
Parking
Parking lot available at Penn Forest Elementary side of the park.
Profile
Strong profile coverage
Needs recheck
Public-source evidence needs review. Confirm time-sensitive details using the business links above.
Editorial Review
Why included
Inclusive Play Atlas includes this accessible playground because it has enough public information to compare fit, logistics, and source context.
What we verified
- address
- phone
- features
- parking
What remains unknown
- Current operating hours or season
Profile updated August 3, 2026; source check April 11, 2026. Confirm current park hours, construction closures, restroom availability, and the specific accessibility features your family needs before making a special trip.
Plan This Visit
Price
Free public park.
Parking
Parking lot available at Penn Forest Elementary side of the park.
Profile
Strong profile coverage
Atlas Perspective
Editor's Take
If you want one of the valley's most established accessible playground stops with room to spread out, this is the standout county pick.
At a Glance
Venue type
All-abilities park
Age groups
ToddlersPreschoolersBig kidsMixed ages
Mobility features
Wide pathways
Family amenities
Picnic tablesRestrooms nearbyParking
Surface type
Mixed surfaces
Shade level
Mixed shade
Restroom access
Nearby restrooms
Accessibility supports
Accessible routesSmooth paths
Park context
Part of a larger parkSports fields nearbyPicnic area
Operator type
Municipal
Visit options
Free entryParking on site
Toddler-friendly
Yes
Plan Your Visit
PathsHalf-mile loop trail/gravel walking path circles the park.
ParkingParking lot available at Penn Forest Elementary side of the park.
Amenities
- Playground
- Parking
- Restrooms
- Picnic areas
- Grill
- Trails
RestroomsRestroom area near the parking lot; additional restroom/concessions area near ballfields may only open during tournaments.
What To Know
Follow the gravel trail from the parking lot to reach the playground area.Nearby playground is on Penn Forest Elementary property and not available while school is in session.
Pricing Snapshot
SummaryFree public park.
AdmissionFree
C. Darrell Shell Park is one of the strongest accessible playground options in the Roanoke Valley, with official and tourism sources describing it as the largest handicap-accessible playground in the valley. The playground sits behind Penn Forest Elementary and is paired with parking, restrooms, picnic areas, a grill, and a half-mile loop trail for a fuller family outing. Families should note that the nearby playground is on school property and is not available while school is in session, so timing matters on weekdays.
Accessibility & Comfort
These details reflect published sources and dated reports, not an ADA inspection. Confirm the specific supports and barriers that matter for your visit.
SummaryOfficial county and regional tourism sources describe this as a handicap-accessible playground.
Known Features
Accessible playgroundParkingRestroomsPaved trails listed by county features
Considerations
Public pages do not specify individual adaptive play components.School-use restrictions affect playground availability during school sessions.
Accessible routesSmooth paths
Gallery
External Links
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Contact Information
Phone
(540) 387-6078Address
6328 Merriman Rd
Roanoke, VA, 24018
Source & Verification
Last updated
August 3, 2026
Verification summary
Last source review: April 11, 2026
Checked against 2 public sources.
This profile summarizes published information and dated reports. It is not an ADA inspection or an individualized accessibility assessment.
Reviewed as
Municipal source review
What Changed
April 11, 2026
Created listing from official county and regional tourism sources.
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