The Yard

“As an adult, we can only assume what its like to play here. Kids absolutely love it. Warning, this is a free play/adventure space. You should speak to your children before if you dont want them playing freely as children have done for centuries. Yes they can build, there are tools. They can dress up, there are clothes. They cand ride the zip line, they may fall. They will come out dusty and/or muddy, there's usually a mudpit. MOST importantly they will have fun. They can freely play and explore without the helicopter oversight of adults telling them they CANNOT. Closed toe shoes required!!!!!! This isn't the space for everyone and that is understandable. You are required to sign a waiver acknowledging potential risks. I have yet to see a kid leave unhappy from their play time at the yard, you usually have to beg them to come out and remind them they need water to rehydrate. The perfect place for a kid to be be outside and play! 10/10 def recommend.”

“The Yard is the only adventure playground in NYC! A wonderful space for kids to experience self-directed play with reasonable risks. A team of trained Playworkers are on site at all times. Kids can use tools and their imaginations to create their own play spaces, or simply discover what is already available on the site. Open to all age groups, but must be between 5 and 18 to enter the adventure play area. A separate space is open to all ages and parents. UPDATE: Parents of younger children can discuss with the staff whether their younger child can enter. They also may rotate groups to keeps the numbers at a safe level for the staff to maintain.”

“I've been waiting YEARS for my child to be old enough to explore the yard freely and we finally made it today and she had the best time. She refused to tell me what had happened because she was thrilled to be in a no parents space, but she did mention the zipline and a tunnel of some sort. I was so curious I peeked through the fence and caught her zipping away! I also overheard an older kid helping her out. I'm really impressed by the shade cover they've added to the space and I sure hope some day I get to go on a tour and see more of the magical mystery inside! Bring a book: your kid will happily play for hours here.”

“Great playground on Governors island, just a ferry trip away from the busy Manhattan. The playground is built up with all kind of repurposed materials. The kids can really use their creativity and imagination playing there. Highly recommended (and a must visit for the locals) for families visiting NY and wanting to escape the concrete jungle!”