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2023 Safari Playground AKA Hippo Playground Central Park 9265

2023 safari playground aka hippo playground central park nyc manhattan west side near 91st street - naturalistic sculptures of hippopotamuses scattered around a play river - hippos designed by the artist bob cassilly animal sculptures designed in 2019 new york city 07/12/2023.

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• New York City, NY
• Central Park, NY
• Upper East Side, NY
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• Astoria-Long Island City, NY
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Central park's safari playground on verge of reopening: photos, the new playground, located on the west side of central park near west 90th street, features new ada-accessible play structures..

Brendan Krisel , Patch Staff

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — After nearly one year of construction, Central Park's Safari Playground is on the verge of reopening, Central Park Conservancy officials said.

The playground, located near the West 90th Street and Central Park West entrance, may open as soon as this week if weather permits workers to conduct final touches. The renovated playground will feature completely redone surfaces, a new layout and a new ADA-accessible entrance and play structure.

One of Safari Playground's most beloved features, a series of hippo structures, were 3D scanned and completely recreated.

Find out what's happening in Upper West Side with free, real-time updates from Patch.

"The spirit of the hippos lives on," Central Park Conservancy's Studio Director in the Department of Planning, Design and Construction Bob Rumsey said. "We kept those and added to the playground's creative play elements."

The original hippos, created for the playground's previous renovation in the 70s by artist Bob Cassilly, were donated to the City Museum in St. Louis. Cassilly, who is now dead, founded the museum with his wife Gail.

Safari Playgrounds' biggest addition in the renovation is a play structure that features a number of climbing elements and a slide, Rumsey said. The structure features a ramp that meets ADA-accessible codes and was custom-built for the Central Park Conservancy by Oregon-based company Timberform. The structure is designed to represent a hill or mountain leading down to the water element and hippo structures, Rumsey said.

Safari Playground is ideal for children between 2- and 5-years-old because it emphasizes creative and imaginative play, Rumsey said. The new playground's new layout builds on that emphasis by replacing what was once ground with scattered mounds and ramps made of soft playground surface material. The playground's design team also worked meticulously to color the playground surface so that it reflected a landscape of hills and rivers, Rumsey said.

In addition to adding play structures and making the playground more accessible, the renovation will also make sure Safari Playground is better incorporated into Central Park as a whole. The original seven-foot iron fence border was reduced to four feet and is now made out of a thinner material, allowing great views of the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir from inside the playground.

Safari Playground is the 15th playground in Central Park that has received a complete renovation through the Central Park Conservancy's Plan for Play initiative, Rumsey said. The conservancy manages all 21 playgrounds in Central Park and plans to renovate all of them. Funding for the Safari Playground project was raised through the conservancy's Forever Green campaign. The campaign raised $300 million after being launched in 2016.

Check out a photo slideshow of the new playground at the top of the article.

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Safari Playground

Set atop a hill close to 91st Street off Central Park West, the Safari Playground feels secluded and offers a great space for preschool kids to run around. It features hippopotamus sculptures and tree houses, plus play canoes and water spray features.

West side at 91st Street

Suitable Ages

Playground features.

• Water feature
• Hippo play sculptures
• Climbing mounds with step climbers and slides
• Play canoes

Restroom Availability

No restrooms

Accessibility

• Accessible surface

Playgrounds

There are 21 playgrounds located throughout Central Park, each with its own unique theme, design, and play features. Browse the list and find a space for kids of all ages and abilities!

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Safari Playground

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Wild West Playground

Central Park West (at 93rd St)

"Mostly sand park so come prepared. .best in the summer time around 75°+ or better has a mini river path in the middle of the park"

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Central Park West (W 96th St)

"Great playground.. One of best for 3-5 yr olds. Don't forget to try the coffe cart 96st. Southwest corner. Very good for cart"

Hippo Playground

Riverside Dr (at W 91st St)

"One the most truly awesome (low traffic) places to go sledding on a snowy day (like today)!"

Places people like to go after Safari Playground

Central Park

59th to 110th St (btwn 5th Ave & Central Park W)

"The greatest park in the world. Great for all activities and great Place for picnic with your children , enjoy the nature at its best with lots of fun acitivities to do also. Love to go there again!"

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Central Park (btwn 85th & 96th St)

"Beautiful spot with scenic views. Great spot to run or jog."

Central Park Tennis Center

Tennis Court

Central Park West at 96th St

"Courts are clean and well managed. Worth spending the money to reserve online so you don't have to wait for a court. Be sure to buy the NYC season permit in order to be able to reserve online."

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Safari Playground

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23 Safari In NEW YORK (Mesmerizing, Educational, & Fun)

Have you been wanting to see species of animals in person?

Do the YouTube videos of fun facts about your favorite animals not satisfy you enough?

It may be because witnessing the variety of local and international animals in person is much better!

This way, you may see these natural creatures’ beautiful furs, patterns, and coats and observe their personalities in real time!

You may also get the opportunity to interact with and even pet or feed them!

With that said, ditch your computers and head to the places like Safari to meet the beautiful animals!

You’ll indeed find the experience worth the travel!

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Zoos in New York .

Safari in New York City, New York

1. central park zoo.

Prepare to be fascinated with the fantastic beings you will see at this educational and fun attraction !

Located in Central Park, Manhattan, the Central Park Zoo offers 6.5 acres of education-filled area sheltering over 130 species of animals!

So be sure to bring your cameras and capture amazing photos of leopards, sea lions, red pandas, and many more of our four-legged friends!

Additionally, if you have a young companion who shows interest in animals, this place is perfect as it provides educational programs and activities for kids .

You can also enjoy animal feedings, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits together.

To add to your incredible experience, you can also try their 4-D theater , which offers a multi-sensory experience.

After an eventful day, you can ease your hunger at the area’s wide range of food options, including cafes and food stands.

Address: 830 5th Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States

2. Bronx Zoo

With more than 265 acres of land, there are many to see and do in this popular attraction .

So hurry up, plan your trip , and buy your tickets now; the fun awaits at the Bronx Zoo !

In this safari park, you’ll get the unique opportunity to say hello to over 700 species of animals!

You may see animals like lions, elephants, gorillas, birds, etc.

There would be no dull moments in this attraction because apart from greeting the animals, you can also witness their offered exhibits and habitats.

So prepare your camera and capture unique moments in their World of Birds, JungleWorld, Tiger Mountain , and others!

Remember to also tune in to their important dates as they offer special events like the Boo at the Zoo during Halloween.

Address: 12 miles from NYC, 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, United States

3. Queens Zoo

Do you want to see animals from North and South America without having a long drive ?

Don’t worry; you can enjoy sightseeing all day in Queens!

If you are looking forward to a historical trip, a fun exhibit, and fantastic interactions with various animals, the Queens Zoo is the perfect place!

So wait no more and purchase your tickets now online!

Stepping inside the venue, you may visit their Aviary, where you may expect to encounter scarlet macaws, sun conures, cattle egrets, bobwhite quails, and many other beautiful birds!

There is also a range of domestic animals you can see and sea lions in their pool.

Additionally, you can explore the diverse wildlife they shelter and stop by the Waterfowl Marsh to see amphibians, reptiles, and many more of our water pals!

Address: 9 miles from NYC, 53-51 111th St, Corona, NY 11368, United States

4. Staten Island Zoo

Are you still looking for the perfect Safari to surprise your child with?

You can stop your search now, as Staten Island Zoo is ready to impress you with the diverse species of animals they shelter.

Although not required, you can make reservations online, recommended so your visit will be as smooth as possible, giving you more time to see exhibits such as the Tropical Forest, the North Shore Exhibit, or the Children’s Center, which your young ones will surely enjoy.

Educational workshops are also available for animal-life-loving visitors, and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs for your visit.

Furthermore, as it is a well-known area expecting many visitors, wearing or bringing face masks and hand sanitizers for protection amid the pandemic is recommended.

Address: 13 miles from NYC, 614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY 10310, United States

Also see our article on  Aquariums in New York .

Safari in Ithaca, New York

1. cornell lab of ornithology and sapsucker woods sanctuary.

Are you a lover of birds?

Pack your bag now, prepare your camera, and fly through the mesmerizing world of birds at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary!

Located in the same area, Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary is adjacent to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, which is on the campus of Cornell University.

Visiting the place , expect to see many species of our winged friends, including warblers, woodpeckers, and many more.

They offer many resources, research, and science projects all about birds giving you a fantastic opportunity to learn more about these feathered creatures in a fun way!

You can try their interactive exhibits or bird observation areas as you visit, then head to their gift shop for souvenirs.

If you are into a peaceful walk, they also have trails and nature walks accompanied by birds!

Address: 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

2. Cayuga Nature Center

Get ready for another fun-filled trip with this fantastic attraction.

With over 120 acres of land, the Cayuga Nature Center will wow you with its many habitats, sheltering different animals you can meet!

Forests, meadows, ponds, and trails are just some sights you can find at the venue .

Make sure to put their trails on your to-do list.

You’ll not be disappointed when going through their magnificent trails as you enjoy a peaceful hike or an entertaining birdwatching session, or you can observe the wildlife in the area!

They also have interactive exhibits and displays ready to be captured by your camera.

Seasonal events and educational workshops are also offered, as well as guided tours to make the most out of your visit .

So think no more; if you are excited to experience a day with birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals, visit the Cayuga Nature Center!

Address: 1420 Taughannock Boulevard, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

3. Ithaca Farmers Market

Do you want to experience an encounter with wildlife but need help to go to a zoo or a paid venue?

Fret no more, as the Ithaca Farmers Market is here to help!

Here, you can play double roles, a wildlife or nature visitor and an errand running locally!

You can shop among the various products they have in store, including fresh fruits, baked goods, vegetables, and many more scan around for some occasional wildlife sightings along the Cayuga Lake Waterfront.

Also, the beautiful view of nature keeps you entertained while waiting for the animals to show!

With that said, bring your baskets and prepare your camera now!

Visit the Ithaca Farmers Market and avoid shopping; you might miss the fantastic wildlife peeking upon you!

Address: 105 Enfield Falls Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

Also see our article on Museums in New York .

Safari in Rochester, New York

1. the wild park at mendon ponds park.

Set up your camera and bring your binoculars if you must!

The Wild Park at Mendon Ponds Park will fill your day with unique animals and pretty plants!

In this safari-like park, you will explore beautiful hiking and walking pathways and witness various migratory and permanent bird species along your mini journey.

Additionally, shade and scenic picnic places for your family and outdoor dinners are available to ensure a satisfying visit.

A well-kept park with dedicated spaces for kids to play is also installed, so your young ones are provided with fun too!

You can participate in educational sessions and nature-themed activities they host as well.

This attraction is a peaceful environment for unwinding and relieving tension, particularly after your tireless week at work!

If transportation is your worry, a parking space is available so you can bring your vehicle.

Address: 16 miles from Rochester, 95 Douglas Rd, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472

2. The Seneca Park Zoo

Wear your summer hat and sunglasses; the Seneca Park Zoo will get your attention this summer as they proudly present the world’s most extensive collection of creatures, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and more!

The Seneca Park Zoo also has exciting and instructive exhibits, perfect if you’d like to have insights into wildlife conservation and ecosystem preservation.

Here, you can try their interactive activities like stroking goats, feeding giraffes, and running into other amiable creatures to connect with nature’s creatures and share some love with them.

You’ll also be presented with luxuriant gardens where you can take photos, stroll walks you enjoy, and grounds with lovely landscaping.

Year-round special events and occasions you can participate in include zoo camps , animal shows, and holiday festivities.

If you bring your family , you can get them to the Park’s Playgrounds , picnic spots , and carousel.

With that said, invite them to the world of animals and greens, The Seneca Park Zoo!

Address: 2222 St Paul St, Rochester, NY 14621

3. Hidden Valley Animal Adventure

Don’t hide; show your interest in animals through a trip to the Hidden Valley Animal Adventure!

Offering you an intimate interaction with a range of exotic creatures, this unique wildlife park

a safari-like setting where guests may meet and feed animals while driving or on guided trips

a wide variety of animals, including zebras, bison, elk, camels, and more, will sweep you off your feet and give you a trip to remember!

Here, you are given opportunities for education to learn about various species and their natural environments!

There are also scenic routes for strolling through the park and viewing animals in their natural habitat, giving you a full-storage camera gallery after your visit.

Additionally, Picnic spots and pavilions for meeting and eating outside are available, so you pack your food if you’d like.

If you have brought a young companion, you can also have them enjoy the playground and petting zoo available at the venue.

Address: 37 miles from Rochester, 2887 Royce Rd, Varysburg, NY 14167

4. The Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventure Park

Show off your skills and give appreciation for the wildlife you may encounter!

You can bring out the adventure lover at Bristol Mountain ski resort.

They provide a range of fun aerial obstacles and courses for players of all ability levels, including zip lines, bridges, and high ropes courses you can try to test your courage!

But don’t worry, with their experienced guides and stringent safety standards in place, safety is given top priority, so you can try as many activities as you want.

There are also Stunning natural settings with picturesque views of the mountains and forest around where you may also see wildlife!

Furthermore, On-site conveniences such as bathrooms, picnic spots, and a café are available, providing more ease and comfort for your visit.

Address: 30 miles from Rochester, 5662 State Route 64, Canandaigua, NY 14424

Also see our article on  State Parks in New York .

Safari in Syracuse, New York

1. rosamond gifford zoo.

Bring your friends and family to this famous safari-like zoo in Syracuse!

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo, situated near Syracuse, New York, is a well-liked destination for all ages of animal enthusiasts, so trust that your visit will be worth it.

This place is a sanctuary for more than 700 animals, including more than 200 different species from throughout the globe, providing you with many animals to say hi to!

Be sure to pass by and wave to their various animals, including African and Asian elephants, lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, penguins, reptiles, and more.

You can also avail educational opportunities here through regular animal feedings, talks, and hands-on activities to add more entertainment to your visit.

They also have a section designated for children called the “E.M. Mills Rose Garden Playground,” so if you have a kid in your family, this is a perfect place for them to learn more about animal life!

If you look forward to more fun activities, you can participate in their kids’ zoo camps , overnight stays, and behind-the-scenes tours.

Address: 1 Conservation Pl, Syracuse, NY 13204

2. Onondaga Lake Park

Free your schedule and make room for a trip to the Onondaga Lake Park!

This beautiful and sizable park in Syracuse, New York, will surely be one of your favorite places as you gaze at the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding scenery.

The park has a length of almost 7 miles and an area of around 1,000 acres, offering plenty of room for leisurely outdoor pursuits and a perfect background for your family photos!

After a few snaps, check your pictures and see if wildlife has entered the frame!

Additionally, you can bring your bikes and roller skates as they have many well-maintained trails and are ideal for walking, running, cycling, and rollerblading.

Head to Onondaga Lake Park now and look for a wholesome interaction with nature and its creatures!

Address: 106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088, just north of Syracuse

3. Beaver Lake Nature Center

Ditch your usual hangout at the bar and instead drive to the Beaver Lake Nature Center and appreciate the beauty held by nature and animals!

This tranquil and beautiful wildlife park near Baldwinsville, New York, will make you fall in love with what it offers.

The park’s focal point is Beaver Lake, a serene lake surrounded by marshes and beautiful woodlands enough to make your visit satisfactory!

It has more than 9 miles of groomed hiking paths that allow you to have strolls, energizing treks, and environmental discovery.

Furthermore, you can look forward to Its unique ecology, home to a wide range of plant and animal species eager to be discovered.

This place makes it a refuge if you are a passionate birdwatcher, nature photographer, or wildlife lover.

Address: 8477 E Mud Lake Rd, Baldwinsville, NY 13027

4. Safari Playground

Have fun, and have your young ones play with nature!

This well-liked outdoor playground is called Safari Playground in Syracuse and is an excellent way to introduce the beauty of wildlife to your kids.

The playground has a safari-themed design and vibrant, interactive sculptures that look like animals and natural landscape features that children will find interesting.

They would also not be bored and bombarded with too many wildlife displays as there are play structures and equipment, including slides, climbing walls, swing sets, and bridges available.

This makes an excellent way for them to stay entertained at the place.

You may also be at ease during your stay as the place offers a secure and safe play space with rubberized flooring and soft surfaces to serve as cushions in case your kid falls and to reduce injuries.

Address: W 91st St, New York, NY 10025, United States

Also see our article on  National Parks in New York .

Safari in Buffalo, New York

1. buffalo zoo.

Brace yourself, and prepare to be wowed; this popular attraction in Buffalo will give you a core memory!

The Buffalo Zoo is one of the first zoos to open in the US, proudly presenting the animal species they shelter from all around the globe.

You should set your alarm before visiting as you may need to remember to go home after being invested in watching and learning about wildlife conservation there!

Furthermore, the zoo’s 23 acres of exquisitely designed grounds give the animals and guests a natural and immersive environment to confidently deem this place worth visiting.

African Savannah, Rainforest Falls, Arctic Edge, and Sea Lion Cove are just a few displays you may tour.

Expect to learn many amazing facts about diverse ecosystems and habitats here!

Address: 300 Parkside Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214

2. Hidden Valley Animal Adventure

Far from its name, this animal-loving attraction does not hide the beautiful animals it homes.

Instead, it proudly presents them to the world!

This distinctive and thrilling animal park, Hidden Valley Animal Adventure, allows you to interact closely with exotic and domestic animals in a realistic and immersive environment!

Here, you may take a guided safari trip to their enormous grounds, where you can get up close and personal with the animals and connect to these lovable and intelligent creatures!

You can also feed them if you’d like.

Try it and make the giraffes, camels, and zebras happy!

Additionally, more than 300 different types of local and exotic animals may be seen at the park, so there is no need to travel far; most of your favorite animals are already here!

Address: 2887 Royce Road, Varysburg, NY 14167

3. Tifft Nature Preserve

Are you a bird lover?

If you are, quit your Google search about bird images, they are much more interesting to look at in person!

Buffalo, New York’s Tifft Nature Preserve, is a tranquil and beautiful natural area and a perfect place if you are seeking a place to rest your mind.

The area contains woods, meadows, marshes, and ponds, making it look like a paradise from storybooks.

Additionally, this preserve’s more than 264 acres of various ecosystems serve as a home for a wide range of plant and animal species waiting to be discovered by your eyes!

The preserve is also a well-liked location for bird lovers like you since it is home to various bird species.

More than 200 magnificent bird species have been recorded within its borders, including migratory species in spring and fall!

Address: 1200 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203

4. Beaver Island State Park

Leave the comfort of your home and experience a fun day outdoors!

This magnificent and sizable state park along the Niagara River near Grand Island is here to brighten your day!

The park’s 950 acres are home to various recreational opportunities for people of all ages, which you can try to acquire a sense of peace and fulfillment.

There is also a sandy beach along the river, making it the ideal location for picnics, swimming, and sunbathing, as well as a venue for your Instagram photoshoot sessions!

Furthermore, the marina and boat launches at the park provide access to the beautiful Niagara River and Lake Erie, so if you enjoy boating, fishing, and other water sports, this attraction will surely be one of your favorite spots for your free days.

Additionally, while having fun with the activities, spare some glances around the place and pay attention to the beautiful animals you may find!

Address: 2136 W Oakfield Road, Grand Island, NY 14072

Also see our article on  Horseback Riding in New York .

Safari in Brooklyn, New York

1. prospect park.

Remove your frown; you are about to witness a breathtaking sight to remember!

The well-known urban oasis Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York, will be unremovable at the top of your to-do list!

Created by the same landscape designers who designed Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted, and Calvert Vaux, they have had a blast making this breathtakingly beautiful natural haven.

This park has more than 500 acres, home to various landscapes, including verdant meadows, forested regions, tranquil lakes , and undulating hills, making it more glorious.

The Ravine is also forested with waterfalls , meandering walks, and primitive bridges , making it a perfect unwinding spot and an escape from the busy world.

Furthermore, with over 250 bird species documented in the area, your inner bird lover will break free upon visiting!

Address: 95 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 1121

2. Staten Island Greenbelt

You won’t be able to put down your camera even once in this attraction!

This spacious natural area, the Staten Island Greenbelt, offers a tranquil respite from the city’s activity.

The Greenbelt is one of the country’s most extensive urban forests that spans more than 2,800 acres sheltering a variety of ecosystems, including woods, marshes, meadows, and ponds that will never escape your memory!

Here you may enjoy hiking, walking, trail running, and wildlife discovery with its routes while you reflect on your day!

Additionally, you may have chances for animal observation and photography since it is home to various wildlife, including white-tailed deer, red foxes, turtles, and several bird species, making your visit more enjoyable.

With that said, free your schedule this week and make way for the top-notch experience at the Greenbelt in Staten Island!

Address: 700 Rockland Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314, United States

3. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

In this place, you can freely express your love for our animal friends and appreciate nature’s beauty!

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a stunning natural haven with over 9,000 acres of varied ecosystems, giving you a moth gaping sight to see.

This refuge, a section of the Gateway National Recreation Area, is renowned for playing a crucial role in sustaining migrating birds and other animals.

Over 330 bird species and other animals may be found here, as well as a diverse range of highland farms, woods, and open lake regions.

Furthermore, a network of paths, including the West Pond Trail, East Pond Trail, and Animal Drive, may be found in the area giving you more options for exploration.

In these, you may experience bird watching, nature photography, and animal observation, so make sure your phone is fully charged, as there are many sights worth capturing along the way!

Address: 12 miles from Brooklyn, 175-10 Cross Bay Boulevard, Broad Channel, NY 11693

4. New York Aquarium

The New York Aquarium allows you to investigate the exciting world of aquatic life.

It is located along the lovely Coney Island Boardwalk.

As you go through various marine ecosystems, prepare to be fascinated by the experience.

Admire the dazzling tropical fish’s beautiful dance in the vivid coral reefs, and be astounded by the mighty sharks’ majestic strength and grace as they glide through the deep-sea displays!

Explore deeper to see joyful sea otters playing in their natural habitat along the shore and to see dolphins performing their excellent acrobatic abilities while demonstrating their astounding intellect.

Be sure to visit the penguins as they waddle and slide on the ice ground, delighting onlookers with cute antics!

Touch the soft skin of a stingray, observe a sea lion training exercise and be amazed by its tremendous strength, or participate in an exciting sea turtle feeding experience.

Address: 602 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11224

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best  Trampoline Parks , Amusement Parks , and Indoor Water Parks in New York.

Looking beyond New York? Check out our article on the best places to enjoy a Safari in Illinois and California .

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10 Best Water Playgrounds and Splash Pads in NYC

June 18, 2019

New York City may be the concrete jungle, but that doesn't mean it lacks man-made water features to cool off during the dog days of summer . Many of the city's playgrounds offer water features and splash pads that are, in our opinion, pretty amazing. These 10, including Domino Park , Chelsea Waterside Play Area and two recently renovated playgrounds in Central Park , should be on your to-do list this summer. Plus, we've listed insider tips (all mom-approved!) for each.

1. Brooklyn Bridge Park Water Lab

Brooklyn Bridge Park - Pier 6 334 Furman St New York, NY Brooklyn Bridge Park boasts incredible views of Manhattan and plenty of ways to entertain the kids this summer, including the water lab on Pier 6 (open on days over 80 degrees). This hidden, bungalow-style playground is like a tropical escape—rocks to climb on and a water-jet field that can encourage an all-day water war. Note, while playgrounds in BBP are open dawn to dusk, the water lab doesn't open until 10am daily.

Insider tip: Make a day out of visiting Brooklyn Bridge Park by taking a spin on the historic Jane's Carousel , or even cozying up on a blanket for their  outdoor movies in the park  on Thursday nights.

2. Imagination Playground

Imagination Playground John St (at South Street Seaport) New York, NY One of our favorites in the city, this downtown playground is both a dream for kids and parents. The splash pad is surrounded by a cascading water fountain, wooden bleacher-style seating and even large, shady umbrellas. It's also completely gated in, so mom can relax and get some sun of her own while the kids splash and play. There is a sandpit on the opposite side of the playground and giant blue "imagination" foam blocks throughout that are designed to let kids create their own play space.

Insider tip:  While you're in the area, visit all fun shops, restaurants and museums at  South Street Seaport . Or see a movie at the air-conditioned iPic Theater !

3. Safari Playground in Central Park  

Safari Playground Central Park New York, NY This playground just reopened in May and includes a 10-sprinkler splash pad. It's expected to be the spot for families this summer. The best part? The climbable hippos (and canoes), of course! It also includes a revamped play structure with two slides, wooden climbing elements and play mounds that were created for all abilities (ramp accessible). 

Insider tip: This playground is also home to two treehouses and shaded picnic tables so you can pack a lunch!

4. Chelsea Waterside Play Area

Chelsea Waterside Park 184 11th Avenue New York, NY The Chelsea Waterside Play Area on 23rd Street and 11th Avenue had a major reno last year—and it's more than impressive. The 17,000-square-foot playground offers new equipment and a giant pipefish-shaped climbing structure. Plus, each of the water features has a state-of-the-art controller, allowing children to press or step on sensors to turn the water on and off. Parents have more seating, too, and the new design puts sustainability and reclaim/reuse as a top priority. 

Insider tip:  Chelsea Piers is only a block away! Go bowling or enjoy fro yo from fresh&co.

5. Lakeside at Prospect Park

LeFrak Center at Lakeside 171 East Dr Brooklyn, NY Book This gigantic splash pad is completely free and one of the most toddler-friendly destinations in the city during the summer (only children ages 12 and under are allowed in). The space is filled with only a few inches of water and surrounded by dozens of jets that shoot water in multiple directions. Kids will get a kick out of the unpredictability of the jets changing height and strength. You just might find yourself here all day!

Insider tip: Prospect Park is full of things to do, see and eat. Read our full guide to the Brooklyn green space here .

6.   Gantry Plaza State Park  

Gantry Plaza State Park 4-09 47th Road Long Island City, NY This beautifully placed playground on the waterfront of Long Island City is no longer a secret. You'll find lots of families enjoying the enclosed play space with areas for kids of all ages, including spinning cups, a spider web, three climbing structures and, of course, a unique sprinkler splash park (including a lifeguard on duty!). The sprinklers run in 45-minute intervals giving children (as well as the environment) a break, so don't think it's shut down if they're not on when you get there—just give it a few minutes.

Insider tip: Gantry Plaza State Park is home to some of the most spectacular views of midtown. After playing, take a walk along the waterfront (see the Pepsi Sign!), or even cozy up for a nap in one of the hammocks in the Willow tree cove.

7. Billy Johnson Playground in Central Park  

Billy Johnson Playground 5th Ave. New York, NY Known for its epic 45-foot granite slide set within the landscape, Billy Johnson Playground will also be a summer hit thanks to its new interactive water feature inside a small amphitheater. Water jets come up from the ground for surprise bursts of water play. It's also surrounded by ample shade and lots of natural material play structures (including a stone bridge and tire swing!). 

Insider tip: This playground also has a smaller, accessible slide that's great for younger children. It's also a great option before or after visiting the Tisch Children's Zoo that is only a block away. 

8. Hudson River Park's Pier 25 Playground

Hudson River Park Pier 25 Playground CROSS AT N MOORE ST AT PIER 25 IN TRIBECA NY, NY This playground wins the award for most water features boasting eight different ways to get wet on Pier 25. From user-activated water jets and dumping buckets to a dancing fountain and open splash pad with sprinklers, this area is great for any age to cool off and enjoy a summer day in the city. The playground also includes a sandpit, rock climbing wall and boulders and two different swing sets.

Insider tip: You're just a few blocks away from Battery Park City  which is full of kid-friendly dining options for a post-play snack, including the popular Hudson Eats food court at Brookfield Place .

9.   A ncient Playground in Central Park  

Ancient Playground Central Park, East Side at 85th St NY, NY One of the best playgrounds in Central Park, this popular play space is right near the Metropolitan Museum of Art (east side of the park at 85th Street). Living up to its name, Ancient Playgrounds is full of sand and pyramids to climb; come summer, there are also two separate water spots. The main one is an open area full of water jets with a cascading waterfall dumping into it from the bridges on the main climbing structure. Next to it, you'll find a smaller area designed just for crawlers and little children with a wall full of spray nozzles.

Insider tip: You're in Central Park! If the kids still have energy to burn, take a walk to the Victorian Gardens Amusement Park, go for a boat ride or even take one of the famous remote sailboats for a spin.

10. Domino Park Playground and Fountain

Domino Park 15 River St Brooklyn, NY This beautiful  park in Williamsburg opened in 2018 and, trust us, it is well worth a visit! While the kiddos will want to spend most of their time at the beautifully-designed playground, make sure to venture south until you get to the old Domino sugar refinery, the park's namesake. There, kids can run through several (88 jets to be exact) light-up fountains spewing out of the ground while you watch from the pyramid of reclaimed wood steps. 

Insider tip: Hungry? The eatery Tacocina offers a menu ranging from chips and guac to ice cream sammies. Plus, margs for mom and dad. 

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Watch CBS News

HUGE Improv Theater seeks community support to avoid permanent closure

By Beret Leone

May 12, 2024 / 9:01 AM CDT / CBS Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS — A Minneapolis staple is at risk of closing for good. 

HUGE Improv Theater has been in the Twin Cities scene for nearly 20 years. But this last year brought some unexpected financial challenges.

Founders say right now they're facing a make it or break it moment, and the theater is looking for community support to help turn things around. 

The stage is an actor's playground and these thespians are having a ball. 

"Why do we have live theater in 2024, when there's so many great other digital options?" HUGE co-founder Jill Bernard said. "It's to feel alive. It's to be together and feel alive."

And they're doing it all without a script. It's long-form improvisation and HUGE Improv Theater has been running with the concept since 2005.

"There's something about being able to laugh together that helps us overcome anything," Bernard said.

But Bernard says right now, the theater needs help.

"A lot of things added up really quickly," Bernard said. "This is a time when any amount of money will help."

A new location and unexpected expenses have put the nonprofit in a dangerous position. 

"We're running short every month and it would be great to get over the hump and see what we can do, so that's why we are having this Springtacular," Bernard said.

The Springtacular fundraiser has a goal to raise $50,000.

"The theater is in a really fragile spot right now," Bernard said.

Bernard said ticket sales so far in 2024 are up 30% and the theater's education program is thriving. 

But if the theater can't get past this hump, this could be it.

"That would be devastating," student and volunteer Kendra Hoffman said. "I'll be really honest, that would be devastating."

Now a place she calls home, Hoffman remembers her first class at Huge. 

"I've been treated like I was weird my whole life, and my very first improv class, literally one of the first things the teacher said was, 'Whatever is about to come out of your mouth is exactly what the scene needs,'" she said.

Purposeful inclusivity that's created a home for hundreds of actors over the years, with hope to continue that work for years to come.

"We're making an art form that everyone can participate in," Bernard said. "Heal some of the wounds with joy and love and laughter."

As of Sunday morning, HUGE Improv Theater has raised a little over $47,000.

• Minneapolis

Beret Leone is a native Minnesotan who joined the WCCO team as a reporter in September 2022 - and she's thrilled be back home in the Twin Cities! Beret grew up in Chaska and graduated from Bethel University.

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