Address

Boston, MA 02114, USA

Phone

(617) 227-0365

+1 617-227-0365

Website

Coordinates

42.35606, -71.07489

Age Suitability

The playground is designed for children of various ages, with separate areas for toddlers (2-5) and older children (5-12). Some equipment is suitable for children up to age 12.

Equipment Available

Slides, swings (including bucket swings for toddlers), climbing structures, balance beams, spinners, and interactive play panels. The playground also features musical instruments and sensory play elements.

Shaded Areas

Limited natural shade from surrounding trees, with some equipment placed in shaded areas. No dedicated shade structures over the play areas.

Seating For Parents

Several benches surrounding the playground area, with additional seating along the nearby riverfront path.

Restroom Availability

Public restrooms are available nearby in the Esplanade park area, typically open during daylight hours.

Drinking Fountains

Water fountains are available near the playground and along the Esplanade paths.

Fencing

The playground is fully fenced with multiple gated entrances to prevent children from wandering toward the water.

Surface Material

Rubber safety surfacing throughout most of the play area, with some engineered wood fiber in certain sections.

Ada Accessibility

The playground includes several accessible play features and pathways for children with mobility limitations, including ramp access to some structures.

Cleanliness Maintenance

Well-maintained by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), with regular cleaning and equipment inspections.

Nearby Parking

Limited parking available along Storrow Drive. Most visitors arrive via public transportation, walking, or biking.

Pet Policy

Dogs are allowed in the Esplanade area but must be leashed and are not permitted inside the playground enclosure.

Bike Racks

Several bike racks are located near the playground entrances, encouraging green transportation.

Nearby Food Options

No permanent food vendors at the playground itself, but seasonal food stands and ice cream vendors operate along the Esplanade during summer months. Nearby Beacon Hill and Back Bay neighborhoods offer numerous restaurants.

Sports Areas

Tennis courts, baseball fields, and open green spaces are located throughout the Esplanade park area.

Walking / Biking Trails Nearby

The playground sits directly on the Charles River Esplanade path, which offers miles of paved trails for walking, running, and biking along the river.

User Submitted Photos

Many visitors share photos of their children enjoying the playground with skyline and river views in the background.

Recent Reviews

Recent reviews highlight the playground's cleanliness, safety features, and beautiful location. Some note that it can get crowded on nice weather days and weekends.

Crowd Levels

Moderately crowded on weekday afternoons and very busy on weekends with good weather. Early mornings and non-summer weekdays tend to be less crowded.

Special Events

The playground area sometimes hosts children's activities during larger Esplanade events like summer concerts or holiday celebrations.

Entrance Fee

Free admission to the playground and all Esplanade areas.

Space For Groups

The playground can accommodate small group gatherings, though there's no designated reservation system for the space.

Nature Connection

Excellent nature connection with riverside location, views of the Charles River, and mature trees surrounding the area.

Noise Level

Moderate noise level from playing children and occasional traffic sounds from nearby Storrow Drive.

Aesthetic Design

Modern playground design that complements the natural riverside setting, with equipment colors chosen to blend with the surroundings.

Security Presence

Regular patrols by DCR rangers and occasional Boston Police presence, especially during peak usage times and events.

Rules Restrictions

Standard playground rules apply: adult supervision required, no smoking, no glass containers, and playground closes at dusk.

First Aid Availability

No permanent first aid station, but DCR staff and emergency services are readily available with quick response times to the area.

Community Activities

Occasional organized activities including ranger-led nature programs and community events during summer months.

Social Interaction

High level of social interaction between families; the playground serves as an important community gathering place for local families and visitors.

Eco Friendly Practices

Part of DCR's sustainability initiatives, with recycling bins throughout the area and eco-friendly maintenance practices.

Renewable Energy

Some solar-powered lighting along nearby pathways, though not specifically in the playground area.

Walkability Bike Access

Excellent walkability and bike access via the Esplanade paths, with connections to the larger Boston bike path network.