Events & Activities

Boston’s Top 18 Playgrounds: Ideal Spots for Kids to Have Fun

Playgrounds are an essential part of childhood, providing children with a safe and interactive environment to play, learn, and socialize.

In Boston, there are numerous playgrounds scattered throughout the city that cater to the diverse needs and interests of children of all ages.

From traditional swing sets and slides to innovative climbing structures and water features, Boston’s playgrounds offer a wide range of activities for kids to enjoy.

Whether you’re a local resident looking for a nearby playground or a visitor seeking a fun outdoor destination for your family, Boston’s playgrounds are sure to provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment for children of all ages. 

1. DeFilippo Playground

DeFilippo-Playground

DeFilippo Playground is a charming recreational area located in the heart of Boston. This playground offers a variety of amenities for children of all ages to enjoy.

From swing sets and slides to climbing structures and a sandbox, there is something for everyone to play on. The playground is well-maintained and clean, making it a safe environment for children to have fun in.

The surrounding greenery adds to the beauty of the space, providing a pleasant backdrop for playtime.

DeFilippo-Playground-1

Families can relax on benches while watching their children play or join in on the fun themselves. DeFilippo Playground is a popular spot for local families and visitors alike.

It provides a great opportunity for children to socialize and make new friends while engaging in physical activity.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 135 Prince St, Boston, MA 02113, United States

Website: boston.gov 

2. Hemenway Playground

Hemenway-Playground

Hemenway Playground in Boston offers a variety of recreational activities for children and families. The playground features swings, slides, climbing structures, and a spacious play area for kids to run around and have fun.

One of the highlights of Hemenway Playground is its colorful and engaging design, which creates a welcoming and playful atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

The playground is also well-maintained, with clean and safe equipment for children to enjoy. In addition to the play structures, Hemenway Playground has ample seating areas for parents and caregivers to relax and watch their children play.

Hemenway-Playground-1

The playground is conveniently located near residential areas, making it a popular spot for families looking for a fun and accessible outdoor space. Overall, Hemenway Playground is a.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 540 Adams St, Boston, MA 02122, United States

Website: boston.gov 

3. Clifford Playground

Clifford-Playground

Clifford Playground is a hidden gem in the city of Boston. Located in the heart of the bustling city, this playground offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Although there may not be much information available about Clifford Playground, visitors can expect a well-maintained green space with plenty of room to run and play.

The playground is equipped with swings, slides, and climbing structures, providing endless entertainment for children of all ages.

Surrounded by lush trees and flowers, Clifford Playground offers a picturesque setting for families to enjoy a day outdoors.

The tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind while watching the kids play whether you’re a local looking for a new spot to explore.

Rating: 7.8

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 160 Norfolk Ave, Boston, MA 02119, United States

Website: boston.gov 

4. Esplanade Playground

Esplanade-Playground

Located in Boston, the Esplanade Playground is a popular spot for families to enjoy a day outdoors.

Situated along the Charles River, this playground offers stunning views of the water and surrounding greenery. The playground features three separate play areas, each surrounded by lush trees and foliage.

Children can enjoy a variety of play equipment, including a zip line, climbing structures, and chute slides.

Esplanade-Playground-1

The diverse range of activities ensures that kids of all ages can have a great time. One of the highlights of the Esplanade Playground is the zip line, which allows children to soar through the air and experience a thrilling ride.

The climbing structures provide a fun challenge for kids to test their agility and strength, while the chute slides offer a fast and exciting way.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 617-227-0365

Address: Boston, MA 02114, United States

Website: esplanade.org 

5. Charles Bank Playground

Charles-Bank-Playground

The Charles Bank Playground in Boston is a popular spot for families and children to enjoy outdoor playtime.

Located in the heart of the city, this playground offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. One of the main attractions at Charles Bank Playground is the large play structure that features slides, swings, and climbing walls.

Children of all ages can have fun exploring the different areas of the playground and engaging in imaginative play. In addition to the play structure, the Charles Bank Playground also has plenty of open space for kids to run around and play games.

Charles-Bank-Playground-1

There are also benches and picnic tables for parents to relax and watch their children play. The playground is well-maintained and clean, making it a safe and enjoyable environment for families to spend time together.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-626-1250

Address: 251 Causeway St #101, Boston, MA 02114, United States

Website: mass.gov 

6. Miriam and Sidney Stoneman Playground

Miriam-and-Sidney-Stoneman-Playground

The Miriam and Sidney Stoneman Playground is a popular spot for families in Boston to enjoy outdoor activities. Featuring a variety of play structures, swings, and slides, this playground offers endless entertainment for children of all ages.

Parents can relax on nearby benches while keeping a watchful eye on their little ones as they run and play. The playground is well-maintained and clean, providing a safe environment for kids to have fun.

Miriam-and-Sidney-Stoneman-Playground-1

With plenty of space to run around and let out some energy, the Miriam and Sidney Stoneman Playground is a great place for kids to get some exercise. Located in a beautiful park setting, visitors can also enjoy a picnic or stroll through the surrounding greenery.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 617-227-0365

Address: Charles River Esplanades, Boston, MA 02115, United States

Website: esplanade.org 

7. Myrtle Street Playground

Myrtle-Street-Playground

Looking for a playground in Boston where your furry friend can tag along? Look no further than Myrtle Street Playground, where dogs are allowed to join in on the fun!

Located in the heart of Boston, Myrtle Street Playground offers a safe and enjoyable space for both children and dogs to play and socialize.

With plenty of open space and designated areas for dogs to roam, this playground is the perfect spot for pet owners looking for a family-friendly environment.

At Myrtle Street Playground, dogs are welcome to explore and play off-leash, giving them the freedom to run and play to their heart’s content.

Whether your pup enjoys chasing a ball or simply running around with other dogs, they will have a blast at this dog-friendly playground.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 50 Myrtle St, Boston, MA 02114, United States

Website: boston.gov 

8. McLaughlin Playground

McLaughlin-Playground-1

McLaughlin Playground in Boston is a popular spot for families and individuals to enjoy outdoor activities. One unique feature of this playground is that dogs are allowed on the premises.

This is great news for dog owners who want to bring their furry friends along for some fun in the sun. The playground offers a variety of amenities for both children and adults.

From swing sets and jungle gyms to picnic tables and benches, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The open green space is perfect for playing fetch with your dog or simply relaxing in the shade. Having the option to bring your dog to the playground adds an extra level of enjoyment to your visit.

Many dog owners find it comforting to know that they can spend quality time with their pets while also having a.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 239 Parker Hill Ave, Boston, MA 02120, United States

Website: boston.gov 

9. LoPresti Park

LoPresti-Park-1

LoPresti Park in Boston is a beautiful harbor-front park that offers stunning skyline views. The park is a popular spot for families and children to enjoy a day outdoors.

One of the highlights of LoPresti Park is the promenade that runs along the water, providing a scenic walkway for visitors to enjoy.

LoPresti-Park-2

The skyline views from the promenade are breathtaking, making it a great place to relax and take in the sights. For those looking to stay active, LoPresti Park also features basketball courts where visitors can shoot hoops and play a game with friends.

The courts are well-maintained and offer a fun way to get some exercise while enjoying the park. Families with children will especially appreciate the playground at LoP.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 33 Sumner St, Boston, MA 02128, United States

Website: boston.gov 

10. Marcella Playground

Marcella-Playground

Located in the bustling city of Boston, Marcella Playground is a popular destination for families and sports enthusiasts alike.

This city park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy.One of the main attractions at Marcella Playground is its baseball field, perfect for those looking to practice their swing or catch a game with friends.

The field is well-maintained and provides a great space for both amateur and experienced players to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.

In addition to the baseball field, Marcella Playground also boasts two basketball courts, providing ample space for pick-up games or shooting hoops with friends.

The courts are a popular spot for local basketball enthusiasts to come together and showcase their skills.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 260 Highland St, Boston, MA 02119, United States

Website: boston.gov 

11. Joyce Playground

Joyce-Playground

Joyce Playground is located in the heart of Boston, offering a fun and safe environment for children to play and explore. This playground features a variety of play structures, including swings, slides, and climbing equipment.

Children can run around and burn off energy in the spacious open areas, or they can enjoy a game of tag or hide and seek with their friends.

The playground is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful and natural setting for kids to enjoy. Families can bring a picnic and enjoy a meal together at one of the picnic tables provided at Joyce Playground.

Joyce-Playground-1

There are also benches scattered throughout the playground, allowing parents to sit and relax while keeping an eye on their children. The playground is well-maintained and clean, making it.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 80 Union St, Boston, MA 02135, United States

Website: boston.gov 

12. Clarendon Street Tot Lot/Playground

Playground

Located in the heart of Boston, the Clarendon Street Tot Lot/Playground is an urban neighborhood spot perfect for families with young children.

This hidden gem offers a variety of playground equipment for kids to enjoy, from swings to slides and climbing structures. The playground is surrounded by a fence, providing a safe and secure environment for children to play.

Parents can relax on the benches scattered throughout the area, keeping a close eye on their little ones while they have fun.

Playground-1

The shaded area created by the trees makes it a pleasant place to spend time on a hot summer day. Families living in the neighborhood often frequent this playground, creating a sense of community and camaraderie among parents and children.

It’s a great place for kids to socialize.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 260 Clarendon St, Boston, MA 02116, United States

Website: boston.gov 

13. Carter Playground

Carter-Playground

Carter Playground in Boston is a popular spot for families and pet owners alike because dogs are allowed on the premises. This is great news for dog owners who want to enjoy outdoor activities with their furry friends.

The playground features a variety of play equipment for children to enjoy, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. Parents can relax on the benches while keeping an eye on their kids as they play.

For dog owners, Carter Playground offers a safe and spacious area for their pets to run and play. Dogs can socialize with other furry friends while getting some exercise in the open space.

It’s important for pet owners to remember to clean up after their dogs and dispose of waste properly to keep the playground clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 709 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02118, United States

Website: boston.gov 

14. Puopolo Playground

Puopolo-Playground

Puopolo Playground is a hidden gem in Boston, located in the North End neighborhood.

This playground may not be as well-known as others in the city, but it offers a unique and charming atmosphere for both children and adults to enjoy.The playground features a variety of play structures, including swings, slides, and climbing structures.

There is also a large open space for running and playing games, making it a great place for kids to burn off energy and have fun. One of the highlights of Puopolo Playground is its stunning views of the Boston skyline and waterfront.

Puopolo-Playground-1

Visitors can take in the sights while their children play, making it a picturesque spot for families to spend time together. In addition to the play structures, Puopolo Playground also has.

Rating: 9.8

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: Langone Park, 517 Commercial Street, Boston, MA 02109, United States

Website: boston.gov 

15. Smith Playground

Smith-Playground

Located in the lively city of Boston, Smith Playground is a popular destination for families and children looking for a fun and safe place to play.

With a variety of equipment and structures, this playground offers endless opportunities for kids to climb, swing, and slide to their heart’s content.

One of the highlights of Smith Playground is the spacious play area, which is perfect for kids of all ages to run around and explore.

The playground is well-maintained and clean, providing a comfortable environment for families to spend quality time together.

Smith-Playground-1

In addition to the traditional playground equipment, Smith Playground also features unique elements such as sandboxes, water play areas, and interactive games.

These added features help to keep children engaged and entertained for hours on end. The surrounding green.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 235 Western Ave, Boston, MA 02134, United States

Website: boston.gov 

16. American Legion Playground

American-Legion-Playground

The American Legion Playground in Boston is a popular spot for families and children to enjoy outdoor play and activities. This playground offers a variety of amenities and features that cater to both young kids and older children.

One of the main attractions of the American Legion Playground is its extensive play structures and equipment. Children can climb, slide, swing, and explore to their heart’s content in a safe and supervised environment.

The playground is designed to encourage physical activity and imaginative play, providing a fun and engaging experience for all who visit.

American-Legion-Playground-1

In addition to the play structures, the American Legion Playground also offers open green space for running and games, as well as picnic tables and benches for families to relax and enjoy a meal or snack. The playground is well-maint.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 25 Glendon St, Boston, MA 02128, United States

Website: cityofboston.gov 

17. Menino Park

Menino-Park

Menino Park in Boston is a popular playground for families with children and pets. One of the unique features of this park is that dogs are allowed to accompany their owners while they enjoy the playground amenities.

This creates a fun and inclusive environment for families who want to bring their furry friends along for a day of play.

Having dogs allowed at Menino Park provides an opportunity for pet owners to socialize and interact with other dog owners in the community.

Menino-Park-1

It also gives dogs a chance to exercise and explore new surroundings while their owners engage in activities at the playground. The park’s policy of allowing dogs adds an extra element of excitement and joy to the overall experience.

Children can play and interact with friendly dogs, creating memorable moments and fostering a sense of community among.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 617-635-4505

Address: 98 16th St, Boston, MA 02129, United States

Website: boston.gov 

18. Tadpole Playground

Tadpole-Playground

Tadpole Playground is a popular spot for families in Boston to bring their children to play.

Located in the heart of the city, this playground offers a safe and fun environment for kids of all ages to enjoy. Featuring a variety of play structures, swings, and slides, Tadpole Playground has something for everyone.

The bright colors and interactive elements make it a visually appealing place for children to explore and let their imaginations run wild. With plenty of seating for parents and caregivers, Tadpole Playground is a great place to relax and watch your children play.

Tadpole-Playground-1

The open layout of the playground allows for easy supervision, ensuring that kids can play freely while still being within sight. In addition to the play structures, Tadpole Playground also has.

Rating: 8.6

Address: 131 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, United States 

Conclusion

Playgrounds in Boston play a crucial role in providing children with a safe and enjoyable environment to play, socialize, and exercise.

They are essential for the physical, mental, and social development of children, and offer a space for families to come together and connect with their communities.

However, there is a need for greater investment and maintenance in playgrounds across the city to ensure that all children have access to high-quality and inclusive play spaces.

By prioritizing the importance of playgrounds, we can create a healthier and more city for future generations to enjoy.

Photo of author

Laura Chassaigne

After spending her early years in Boston, Laura moved abroad and has lived in Montreal, London, and Paris. She now shares a home with her husband and daughter at the top of Beacon Hill, and these days, she can often be found chasing her daughter in the Public Garden or downtown playgrounds. Laura has a background in art history and archaeology and is also a certified Kripalu yoga teacher. Connect with Laura on Twitter or Instagram.

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