Imagination Playground

Activity Overview

The Imagination Playground at Burling Slip in Manhattan's South Street Seaport area is a unique environment where children can play and create. Designed by famous architect David Rockwell, this playground features large play spaces filled with giant foam blocks, mats, wagons, sand, water, crates, and fabric that children can use to create whatever they can imagine. It was the first of several Imagination Playground locations around the world, which encourage children to develop their motor skills as they express themselves creatively. If you're looking for a different kind of playground where your child can do more than simply run, jump, and climb, then visit the Imagination Playground at Burling Slip.

Things to Do

• Build your own fort or castle out of giant blocks! The bright blue blocks are made of a durable foam that is non-toxic and resistant to germs, mold, and mildew, so you don't have to worry about them being dirty.
• Play in the sandbox. Young children especially love playing in the sandbox and building things using water and sand.
• Watch as your child creates all kinds of exciting things using items like brooms, carts, pipes, and pieces of fabric.
• Make sure to bring a swimsuit for your child in the summertime so they can play in the water area without getting their clothes wet. It has a small pool, a stream, and a fountain that children can manipulate with various objects to make things like dams.

Imagination Playground Insider Tips

• Curious about different ways you can use the blocks? Talk to a Play Associate, who is there to help manage and maintain the play area as well as show children fun ways they can use the materials. However, creation decisions are left to the children in the end!
• Bring along snacks and drinks in case your child gets hungry or thirsty - there aren't many restaurants or shops nearby.
• Don't forget to bring sunscreen! The playground isn't shaded, so you'll want to make sure that everyone in the family puts on some sunscreen before play time begins.