About This Playground
🌳 Hippo Playground is a cherished community park located in Riverside Park at 91st Street in Manhattan, New York City. Named for its distinctive hippo statues that children can climb on, this playground offers a variety of recreational facilities for families and children of all ages.
Visitor Experience: Hippo Playground enjoys positive reviews from local families and visitors, with many praising its clean facilities, friendly atmosphere, and the unique hippo sculptures that give the playground its name. Parents appreciate the shade during summer months and the community events hosted throughout the year.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
W. 91st St &, Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10025, USA
Phone
(212) 870-3070
+1 212-870-3070
Coordinates
40.79315, -73.97801
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
Suitable for children of all ages, with separate areas for toddlers (2-5) and older children (5-12).
Equipment Available
Climbing structures, swings (including bucket swings for toddlers), slides, spring riders, hippo sculptures for climbing, sandbox, and sprinkler area for summer months.
Shaded Areas
Good tree coverage providing natural shade throughout most of the playground, particularly around the seating areas.
Seating For Parents
Multiple benches throughout the playground and surrounding areas, plus some picnic tables.
Restroom Availability
Public restrooms available within walking distance in Riverside Park, though not directly in the playground area.
Drinking Fountains
Several drinking fountains available within the playground area.
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
Fully fenced playground with childproof gates to prevent young children from wandering off.
Surface Material
Safety surfacing under play equipment (rubber matting), with some areas of sand and concrete pathways.
Ada Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrances and some accessible play equipment, though not all areas are fully accessible.
Cleanliness Maintenance
Well-maintained by NYC Parks Department and the Hippo Playground Project community group, with regular cleaning and prompt repairs.
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Limited street parking available; public transportation recommended.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed inside the playground area, but dogs are permitted in designated areas of the surrounding Riverside Park.
Bike Racks
Bike racks available at the playground entrance.
Nearby Food Options
No food vendors within the playground, but several cafes and restaurants within walking distance on Broadway. Families often bring picnics.
Sports Areas
Basketball courts adjacent to the playground, plus tennis courts and soccer fields nearby in Riverside Park.
Walking / Biking Trails Nearby
Located within Riverside Park, which offers extensive walking and biking paths along the Hudson River.
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Many visitors share photos of their children with the iconic hippo sculptures, especially during community events.
Recent Reviews
Recent visitors highlight the playground's cleanliness, friendly atmosphere, and the joy children find in the hippo sculptures and water features during summer.
Crowd Levels
Busiest after school hours and on weekends with good weather. Relatively quiet on weekday mornings except during summer.
Special Events
Regular community events organized by the Hippo Playground Project, including seasonal festivals, concerts, and family activities.
User Experience
Entrance Fee
Free admission for all visitors.
Space For Groups
Suitable for birthday parties and small gatherings, though there is no formal reservation system for the public areas.
Nature Connection
Good integration with surrounding Riverside Park greenery, with trees and plantings throughout the area.
Noise Level
Moderate to high during peak hours, but the playground's location helps buffer some street noise.
Aesthetic Design
Charming design featuring hippo sculptures and colorful play equipment, well-integrated into the broader Riverside Park landscape.
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Regular patrols by park staff and occasional NYPD presence, particularly during busy periods.
Rules Restrictions
Standard NYC playground rules apply: no smoking, no alcohol, children must be supervised, no adults without accompanying children.
First Aid Availability
No dedicated first aid station, but park staff are trained in basic first aid. For emergencies, several hospitals are nearby.
Community Interaction
Community Activities
The Hippo Playground Project organizes regular events including spring and fall festivals, summer concerts, and educational programs.
Social Interaction
Strong community feel with regular visitors who know each other, making it a social hub for local families.
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
Part of NYC Parks' sustainability initiatives, including water-efficient fixtures and native plantings.
Renewable Energy
Some solar-powered lighting in the surrounding park areas, though not specifically in the playground.
Walkability Bike Access
Highly walkable location with good access to public transportation (nearby 91st Street entrance to Riverside Park). Bike-friendly with dedicated paths in Riverside Park and bike racks available.
Reviews
Alex Ramirez
a month ago
The Hippo Playground in Riverside Park (W. 91st St. & Riverside Dr., New York, NY) is a delightful and whimsical spot for families, offering a perfect blend of fun, creativity, and relaxation. My recent visit with my two daughters was an unforgettable experience, filled with laughter and joy as they explored every corner of this charming playground. The playground’s iconic hippo sculptures were the highlight of the day. My daughters were instantly drawn to these playful figures, climbing on them and pretending they were part of an imaginative adventure. The water features surrounding the hippos added an extra layer of excitement, as they splashed around and cooled off in the warm weather. These unique elements make the Hippo Playground stand out from other play areas in the city. Beyond the hippos, the playground offers a variety of structures that cater to children of all ages. My younger daughter enjoyed digging and building in the shaded sandbox, while my older one had a blast on the swings and climbing equipment. The space is thoughtfully designed, with plenty of shaded areas provided by tall trees, making it a comfortable spot for families even on sunny days. Benches scattered throughout allowed me to relax while keeping an eye on my daughters as they played. Located within Riverside Park, the playground benefits from its serene and picturesque surroundings. The combination of natural beauty and well-maintained facilities creates a welcoming atmosphere for families. The nearby restrooms add convenience, and the clean, safe environment ensures peace of mind for parents. Overall, our day at Hippo Playground was nothing short of amazing. From the creative design to the variety of play options, it’s clear why this spot is so beloved by locals and visitors alike. Whether it’s climbing on hippos or enjoying the swings and slides, this playground offers endless fun for kids while giving parents a chance to unwind. It’s a must-visit destination for any family looking to create lasting memories outdoors!
View on GoogleRoger Taylor
5 months ago
Only complaint was there were lots of mosquitos. Awesome playground with lots of shade and gorgeous trees.
View on GoogleFrancis Colon
6 months ago
Lovely playground to take kids, its provides a lot trees which shades the playground during the hot summer. There is a bathroom, and mini conference room to have birthday celebration. My kids love this playground.
View on GoogleYerania Poline
6 months ago
I love the facts that it has trees hence there is always shades. During summer time is was not that crowded so you still can eye follow your child.
View on GoogleDaniel Caplan
7 months ago
Large playground in a shady grove area in Riverside Park. Great playground equipment, cool hippo statues that also serve as water statues, bathrooms, good seating options, and more. All in all one of the best playgrounds in the UWS
View on Google