Chick-fil-A is modernizing its kids’ playgrounds
More than 200 locations be reimaged by the end of this year, featuring new multi-sensory designs and interactive games.
July 15, 2026
Chick-fil-A’s playgrounds are getting a makeover. The company announced that more than 200 of its playgrounds across the U.S. will be reimaged by the end of this year, featuring new multi-sensory designs and interactive games.
“Our playgrounds have long been a memorable part of the Chick-fil-A experience, serving as a nostalgic backdrop for the childhood memories that define the dine-in experience,” Kids & Family Senior Principal Team Lead Kate Neyhart said in a statement. “Physical play has always been a cornerstone of our family experience, so we’re thrilled to evolve that even further by introducing over 200 new and refreshed playgrounds across the U.S. by the end of this year.”
The company doesn’t publicly disclose how many playgrounds it has within its approximately 3,300-unit system, but it has designed several different play spaces to fit a diverse portfolio of restaurants and most newbuilds will include some variation. The objective is to create “a place of connection” for families and the community.
The upgrades come amid a rise in sensory play practices, driven in part by the need to counteract a reduction in outdoor free play associated with digital media consumption. They also come as more restaurant chains adopt engaging and interactive experiences to lure more families into their restaurants to build long-term affinity.
The playground makeovers are just part of Chick-fil-A’s efforts to cultivate a third-place environment for families. Some operators, for instance, provide free Icedream to families who leave their phones in a designated box during mealtimes, or host events like sneaker decorating competitions.
Beyond its restaurants, Chick-fil-A launched a Play app in 2024 to encourage family connection. The app has evolved to include a Cow Squad animated series and Cowz World, an immersive digital game — both of which are new this summer.
Chick-fil-A has also launched a new collection of Kids’ Meal toys, including 3D playsets, activity books, and custom Hasbro games.
“Chick-fil-A‘s new era of Kid’s Meal toys are designed to spark genuine creativity and unplugged play, providing the whole family with take-along fun,” Neyhart said. “From Cow Karts and 3D playsets to classic Hasbro® games, these prizes encourage children to build their own worlds and engage in play time together long after the meal is over.”
Notably, McDonald’s is also introducing modernized play places as part of a global store redesign initiative announced last month. Many of these playgrounds were eliminated or downsized during COVID. In a statement, McDonald’s Executive Vice President and Global Chief Restaurant Experience Officer Jill McDonald said the reimagined restaurants are aimed at “creating feel-good moments for customers and crew,” and “making them more enjoyable to visit.”
Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]
Follow her on TikTok: @aliciakelso
About the Author
Alicia Kelso
Executive Editor, Nation's Restaurant News
Alicia Kelso is the executive editor of Nation's Restaurant News. She began covering the restaurant industry in 2010 for QSRweb.com, FastCasual.com, and PizzaMarketplace.com. When her son was born, she left the industry to pursue a role in higher education, but swiftly returned after realizing how much she missed the space. In filling that void, Alicia added a contributor role at Restaurant Dive and a senior contributor role at Forbes.
Her work has appeared in publications around the world, including Forbes Asia, NPR, Bloomberg, The Seattle Times, Crain's Chicago, Good Morning America, and Franchise Asia Magazine.
Alicia holds a degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University, where she competed on the women's swim team. In addition to cheering for the BGSU Falcons, Alicia is a rabid Michigan fan and will talk about college football with anyone willing to engage. She lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her wife and son.
Follow her on TikTok @aliciakelso
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