Photo of Play Hills in New York1 / 3
Playgrounds

Play Hills

📍 Manhattan, NY

★4.9(8 Google reviews)

Play Hills sits within Washington Square Park in Manhattan, centered on climbing and balancing structures over spongy astroturf. A tucked-away location makes it feel like a discovery.

✓ climbing✓ balancing✓ astroturf✓ Washington Square Park✓ toddler-friendly✓ picnic spot
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★★★★★Featured review by Naksha s

For ones visiting first time might find it hard to find this play oasis amidst the foggy air of the park! But this is a great spot for kids! My daughter starting walking here first time!

🏆 Family Action Verdict

Best for active toddlers through grade-school kids who gravitate toward climbing and balance play. The astroturf surface makes it accessible for very young walkers. Parents who enjoy picnicking will appreciate the seamless access to Washington Square Park's open lawns directly alongside.

â„šī¸ What to Know Before You Go

💡Look for the play area along the southern section of Washington Square Park — it sits tucked away and first-time visitors often walk past it.
⏰Bring a picnic blanket; the surrounding park lawn makes for an easy extension of your visit.
đŸŽŸī¸The climbing-focused layout suits kids who are confident on their feet — spot toddlers closely on the structures.

đŸ’Ŧ What Families Are Saying

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4.9
★★★★★

8 Google reviews

Climbing & balance fun45%
Safe soft surface30%
Picnic-friendly setting25%
N

Naksha s

★★★★★

“For ones visiting first time might find it hard to find this play oasis amidst the foggy air of the park! But this is a great spot for kids! My daughter starting walking here first time!”

L

Lizgodad Gemini

★★★★★

“PLAY HILLS IS Verified”

L

L'Erin

★★★★★

“My kids adore this thoughtfully dynamic playground. It's all about climbing/balancing. I love getting out their energy here. The ground is spongy astroturf. Great spot to have a picnic and play!”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Play Hills is a climbing-and-balancing playground set within the southern edge of Washington Square Park. The spongy astroturf ground cover softens falls and makes it suitable for young toddlers — one reviewer's daughter took her first steps here. The equipment focuses on physical challenge rather than passive play, with dynamic structures that reward balance and coordination. The park setting makes it easy to pair with a picnic on the surrounding lawns.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday07:00 – 18:00
Tuesday07:00 – 18:00
Wednesday07:00 – 18:00
Thursday07:00 – 18:00
Friday07:00 – 18:00
Saturday07:00 – 18:00
Sunday07:00 – 18:00

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