Heckscher Playground050

Central Park's largest playground, and one of the most fun, the newly renovated Heckscher is ideally suited for kids of all ages.

The special area designated for toddlers, right at the east-facing entrance, offers sand play, climbing, and small slides, along with seven infant swings.

The sprinklers, which operate during warm days, are truly wonderful, sprouting like leaks from a fun climbing structure. Astroturf circles dot the area so families can "picnic," or just spread a blanket for reading and naps.

The south side of the playground has 14 swings, including two tire swings that can accommodate two or three children at a time, and to the west are raised concrete walkways which inspire castle fantasy play, and access to a fairly large rock/mountain, called Umpire Rock, over which kids with wanderlust might manage to disappear. Fencing is a bit flimsy at the moment, but that part of the reconstruction is still underway.

Bathrooms are clean enough (though they smell strongly of disinfectant) early in the day. Avoid them in the afternoon.