The New Prairie Indoor Playground In Bismarck Is Taking Shape

Bismarck's New Rec Center will Feature a Playground

It was announced in early 2026 that Bismarck was getting a new rec center in South Bismarck. The Paramount Development Group and Inland Oil & Gas are the devolopers of the Next Play Rec Center, which will be a future-focused, multi-use recreational facility that will serve all ages and all levels of activity.

This recreational center will be a lot more than just sports. The vision for the Next Play Rec Center is "Building community and investing in the next generation through spaces designed for movement, connection, and growth." The facility is expected to bring together sports, fitness, and everyday wellness under one roof, appealing to both youth and families. Now, you can also add "play" to this multi-purpose facility.

Introducing the Prairie Play and Indoor Playground

This will be one of the many features of the Next Play Rec Center. It's being billed as an affordable way for families to get their kids out of the cold and the heat (as we are in the middle of a historic heat spell) and run off some steam on those less-than-desirable outdoor days for Bismarck, Mandan, and Lincoln families.

We have an update on The Prairie Play Indoor Playground

It looks like the first of four containers has arrived, and here's a look.

According to a post on their Facebook page, the playground structure is expected to be completed by this fall. That was the goal, according to an earlier post on the Prairie Play and Indoor Playground Facebook page, just in time for another North Dakota Winter.

The Location of the Next Play Rec Center

Rick Rider

The Next Play Rec Center will be located in south Bismarck at 2100 Vermont Avenue, in the former UNFI building right off of Airport Road. Developers say the center will support a variety of uses.

How is this Rec Center Being Funded?

Developers say this project will be paid for by a combination of private investors, partnerships, and sponsorship opportunities. If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities with this facility, you can find out more information here.

To Stay Updated on Timelines and Opening Dates for the Next Play Rec Center

Community members are encouraged to join the email list here for updates as they happen. You can also follow Next Play Rec Center on social media to receive the latest updates as information becomes available. If you are wondering about pricing, hours of operation, and access options, they will be shared as they get closer to the opening.