Why does this award just have to be about the kids? Not for nothing, but maybe moms and dads have just as much fun winding through the monster maze of slides and steps in Dragon Hollow, or reaching for the golden ring inside the dragon's mouth at the carousel. Maybe the adults are the ones rushing to the front of the line to mount Soro or the Larry Pirnie-designed Paint. Maybe the old fogies find a rush spinning on the tire swing. We're just sayin', while these community treasures may win this category, rest assured they're for little kids and big kids alike. Carousel for Missoula & Dragon Hollow: Caras Park; 101 Carousel Dr 549-8382; carrousel.com
2. Splash MT: 3001 Bancroft St. S; 542-9283
3. Tie:
The Children's Museum: 225 W. Front St; 541-7529; learnplayimagine.org
Bonner Park: Ronald Ave. at Evans Ave.