Central Park plans to reopen the playground in the afternoon on Thursday, May 9. For any changes, visit centralparknyc.org.
Any adventurous tyke will tell you that Safari Playground is one of the best things to do in Central Park. Now that the weather is somewhat cooperating, we suggest you make a visit. Some stellar upgrades will certainly entice your little jumping beans!
The scenic grounds with views of the Reservoir boast plenty of lovable amenities. The famous kid's playground (which is best for ages 2–5) focused on entertainment and inclusivity during its reconstruction phase. To ensure that the Upper West Side play oasis is accessible, The Central Park Conservancy regraded the entrance path to the playground from W 90th St and built a wheelchair-accessible ramp.
Perhaps the most notable part of the playground—the cool hippo structures—also received some TLC. The original sculptures by artist Bob Cassilly were donated to the St. Louis’s City Museum last year, but pint-sized New Yorkers will still get a taste of the wild. The hippos, which foster creative thinking and climbing, have been replicated and reinstalled on safety surfacing that changes color (blue to represent a river and brown to represent land). See? We really are in the safari!
Photograph: Courtesy Central Park Conservancy
But of course, the new features deserve some time in the spotlight, too!
Youngsters can expect a new play canoe—which any faux safari adventure needs—wood-climbing features, fun slides and play mounds that are intended to replicate mountains. It's time to soar, little ones!
Photograph: Courtesy Central Park Conservancy
Photograph: Courtesy Central Park Conservancy
And there's good news for parents: When the youngsters insist on visiting during the dog days of summer, the new user-activated water feature will keep littles cool. Water playgrounds are a must for tiny urbanites!
Who's ready to check out the cool upgrades?!
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