Mitchell’s Landing: A Pirate-Themed Playground of Love and Inclusion Opens in San Antonio

Mitchel's Landing Grand Opening

San Antonio, TX – December 2024

A beacon of love, inclusivity, and adventure has arrived in San Antonio with the opening of Mitchell’s Landing, a pirate-themed playground located in the Classen-Steubing Ranch Park on Hardy Oak Parkway. This one-of-a-kind destination playground celebrates the life of Mitchell Chang, a vibrant and compassionate boy whose legacy continues to inspire kindness, play, and connection.

The Story Behind Mitchell’s Landing

Mitchell Chang was a boy who loved pirates, dinosaurs, his friends, and most of all, his family. Known for his exuberant spirit and servant’s heart, Mitchell touched everyone he met with his compassion and determination. Tragically, Mitchell passed away at just three years old after a drowning accident at a swim school.

In honor of their son, Dr. and Mrs. Chang founded The Mitchell Chang Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, to continue his legacy of love, kindness, and service. Their vision culminated in Mitchell’s Landing, the first free public inclusive playground in San Antonio’s parks system, designed to bring joy and accessibility to families of all abilities.

A Playground Like No Other

Mitchell’s Landing is more than just a playground—it’s an adventure waiting to happen. Inspired by Mitchell’s love of pirates, the playground features a pirate ship where young buccaneers can set sail for treasure-filled adventures. Explorers will navigate through a marsh and discover a hidden Spanish Mission, creating imaginative play opportunities for children of all abilities.

This inclusive playground is a National Demonstration Site for Inclusive Play & Youth Physical Activity, designed to promote social interaction, engagement, and physical development. It ensures children with disabilities can participate fully in active play and offers features that cater to multigenerational families, including caregivers and grandparents with disabilities.

A Community Effort for a Shared Vision

Mitchell’s Landing is part of the larger Classen-Steubing Ranch Park, a 204-acre space featuring walking trails, picnic areas, restrooms, a pavilion, baseball fields, and open-play areas. With its inclusive design and enchanting theme, Mitchell’s Landing is poised to become a cherished destination for families across San Antonio.

The project requires $2.2 million to fully realize its vision, and to date, the community has raised $86,000. The Mitchell Chang Foundation is calling on individuals, businesses, and organizations to help bring this dream to fruition. Every contribution helps continue Mitchell’s story of love, service, and joy.

A Legacy of Love and Kindness

Mitchell’s Landing stands as a testament to Mitchell’s spirit and the Chang family’s determination to transform their grief into a lasting legacy of hope and inclusivity. The playground not only celebrates Mitchell’s love for play but also creates a space where all children, regardless of ability, can come together to grow, explore, and create lasting memories.

How You Can Help

To support Mitchell’s Landing and The Mitchell Chang Foundation, visit their website to learn more about donations, sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities. Let Mitchell’s story inspire you to “overwhelm the world with love” through small acts of kindness and generosity.

Visit Mitchell’s Landing

Location: Classen-Steubing Ranch Park, 20000 block of Hardy Oak Parkway, San Antonio, TX
Features: Pirate ship, marsh trek, Spanish Mission, inclusive play equipment, and more

Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement and help make Mitchell’s Landing a shining star in San Antonio’s parks system. Together, we can create a space for all families to play, grow, and make memories that last a lifetime.

For more information, visit The Mitchell Chang Foundation.