1 / 3Diana Ross Playground
📍 Manhattan, NY
Well-loved Central Park playground featuring multi-level wooden climbing structures, tire swings, and water features at the base of Summit Rock. Perfect for classic outdoor play sessions.
After exploring the history of Seneca Village which was the name of the mainly black owned property which was turned into Central park I was intrigued to find the "Diana Ross" playground. I thought there has to be a link the famous African American singer who recently performed for King Charles III in the UK. And so it is Miss Ross Donated funds for the park after her historic concert on the Great Lawn in 1983. To be fair, there are no toilets nearby, or even a drinking fountain. But its quiet peaceful dignity points to the history of the displaced people, who lived there peacefully before they were removed.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children ages 3-7 who enjoy classic playground equipment and don't mind basic facilities. The wooden climbing structures and safe, peaceful setting make it ideal for longer play sessions, but the lack of restrooms means it's better suited for shorter visits or as part of a larger Central Park outing.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →452 Google reviews
Paul Brown
2 years ago
“After exploring the history of Seneca Village which was the name of the mainly black owned property which was turned into Central park I was intrigued to find the "Diana Ross" playground. I thought there has to be a link the famous African American singer who recently performed for King Charles III in the UK. And so it is Miss Ross Donated funds for the park after her historic concert on the Great Lawn in 1983. To be fair, there are no toilets nearby, or even a drinking fountain. But its quiet peaceful dignity points to the history of the displaced people, who lived there peacefully before they were removed.”
Daniel Donnelly
a year ago
“Well-equipped and maintained playground with plenty of greenery. The neighbors are friendly, and it has a small-town feel despite the Upper West Side’s population density. If local lore is correct, the playground is named after the famed singer who used to live around here.”
Victoria
5 years ago
“I feel safe to bring my children here - 3 years old and 7 years old. They playng for hours. A lot of benches for parents to sit also”
korra dale
a month ago
“We had a wonderful time at the Diana Ross Playground! It’s such a classic Central Park spot with a great variety of wooden climbing structures and slides that kept the kids entertained for hours. The setting is beautiful and feels very safe. A solid 4-star experience for a family afternoon in the city.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Diana Ross Playground sits at the base of Summit Rock near Central Park's West 81st Street entrance. The playground features large wooden climbing structures with multiple platforms, decks, ladders, slides, and tire swings set in a sand area. Additional amenities include toddler swings, bucket swings, and a water-spray feature for summer play.
