Odaka Ryokuchi (大高緑地)

If you've looked east when travelling between Ōdaka and Minami-Ōdaka Stations on the JR Tōkaidō Line, you may have noticed a couple of dinosaurs standing in a playground. These prehistoric playthings (the dinosaurs, Dai-chan and Kou-chan, are actually slides) stand tall in the Dinosaur Plaza (Kyōryu Hiroba / 恐竜広場), at the western edge of the Aichi Prefecture-administered urban park known as Odaka Ryokuchi (Odaka Green / 大高緑地).
Located in Midori Ward, Odaka Ryokuchi is a 120-hectare park where you can enjoy a day out from city life. Whether you're just looking to lounge around on a lawn or take a stroll and enjoy the season, or looking for a place to let the kids play all day, Odaka Ryokuchi has something for everyone.
The Dinosaur Plaza, with a variety of play equipment, is one of the park's popular spots for families with children, but it's only one of a number of playgrounds within the park.
There are also plenty of other attractions and activities to try, including go-kart and minicar rides at the Traffic Park (Kōtsu Kōen / 交通公園), boat rides on Biwagaike Pond, and miniature golf (fees apply). Check the website for upcoming craft sessions, markets and other seasonal activities and attractions.
You can also bring lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the lawn areas, and spend the whole day at the park.
Be sure to pick up a map, or have your smartphone handy, if you're going to explore.

Dino Adventure Nagoya (ディノアドベンチャー名古屋)

If Odaka Ryokuchi's dinosaur slides have put you in the mood for more Mesozoic monsters, why not stretch your legs and head to Dino Adventure Nagoya? After buying your ticket at the Center House, head off into the forest to encounter some big reptiles that move, growl and eat.
Dino Adventure Nagoya opened in 2016 with a 600-meter walk where visitors could encounter 12 dinosaurs, and has gradually expanded to a 900-meter course featuring 22 animals.
Young dinosaur enthusiasts will quickly overcome their initial trepidation and will soon want to rush off to see what's next. Make the most of your visit by picking up a course map and pencil at the entrance, and fill in the map with the names of the dinosaurs as you discover them. (A clipboard or hardcover book might come in handy.)
The course finishes at the Center House shop, where a variety of dinosaur-related items and refreshments including ice cream and drinks are available.