Inclusive playgrounds for children in NYC

Robert Bendheim Playground is a go-to Central Park destination for NYC families. Not only is the spot chock full of fun accomodations such as slides, swings and a corkscrew-shaped water system for the dog days of summer, but the inclusive playground is meant to be accessible for children with and without disabilities. No child will be excluded from the fun at this wheelchair-accessible park. All ages. 

Paying homage to our favorite extinct creatures, the wheelchair-friendly Dinosaur Playground in Riverside Park boasts a triceratops and hadrosaur for budding paleontologists to admire upon their visit. Kids can also enjoy swings, sandboxes, climbing equipment and even a spray shower when the temperatures soar. All ages. 

Built in 1984, this first-of-its-kind inclusive playground in Queens was designed to accommodate children with and without disabilities. A network of wheelchair-accessible ramps connect various jungle gyms with Braille signs marking the way. A mini village beckons kids with a one-room schoolhouse, complete with a chalk blackboard, a fire station, a house with flower boxes and vehicles such as a fire engine and a bus. Basketball courts are surrounded by amphitheater seating, plus there's a faux river encircling a sprinkler area with ample shading to ensure unfettered fun for every child who visits. Ages 3–12. 

Set in the backdrop of a busy city, Staten Island's 138-acre park features a handicapped-accessible playground with a jungle gym, spray shower and other cool amenities that invite all children to have some fun. When the kiddos have expended all of their energy, make sure to stop by the pinic tables and enjoy some snacks. All ages. 

Pelham Bay Park's $2.59 million renovation in 2000 caused its playground to shift gears and focus on welcoming all children to its grounds. The destination includes accessible boardwalk and activity stations, a shallow pond and of course, play equipment that is accessible to everyone who visits. All ages.