Ancient Playground: Where Playtime Meets Ancient Egypt
Explore ancient Egypt in the heart of Central Park at Ancient Playground, a unique and imaginative play space for kids of all ages.
Inspired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Egyptian collection, Ancient Playground in Central Park offers a unique play experience with pyramids, an obelisk, and a sundial. It's a favorite among locals and tourists, blending cultural themes with fun and engaging play structures.
A brief summary to Ancient Playground
- Museum Mile, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10028, US
- +1212-310-6600
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours (early mornings or weekdays) to avoid crowds, especially during the summer.
- Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as shade can be limited, especially in the water play areas.
- Take advantage of the playground's proximity to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a combined cultural and recreational outing.
- Utilize the restroom facilities available on-site for convenience.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From anywhere on Museum Mile, the Ancient Playground is easily accessible by foot or public transportation. Several bus lines, including the M1, M2, M3, and M4, stop along Fifth Avenue near the playground. Consult the MTA website or app for real-time schedules and route planning. The local fare for the bus is $2.90, payable via OMNY or MetroCard.
-
Walking
From the Metropolitan Museum of Art, walk north along Fifth Avenue to 85th Street. Enter Central Park at the 85th Street entrance. The playground will be a short walk east of Fifth Avenue. This is a free and pleasant way to access the playground, allowing you to enjoy the scenery of Central Park.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the 85th Street and Fifth Avenue entrance to Central Park, a short walk from the playground. A short taxi ride from elsewhere on Museum Mile will likely cost between $10 and $20, depending on traffic and surcharges. Note that there may be additional charges during rush hour or overnight.
Discover more about Ancient Playground
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alexander Hamilton Monument
0.3 km
Discover the Alexander Hamilton Monument in Central Park, a stunning sculpture celebrating the legacy of one of America's founding fathers amidst tranquil green surroundings.
The Obelisk
0.4 km
Explore The Obelisk in Central Park, a 3,500-year-old Egyptian monument, and behold history and art in one breathtaking landmark.
Church of the Heavenly Rest
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of the Heavenly Rest, a historic Episcopal church in the heart of Manhattan.
Metropolitan Museum Historic District
0.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Metropolitan Museum Historic District, a cultural gem in New York City.
Park Avenue Historic District
0.6 km
Experience the charm and elegance of Park Avenue Historic District, a must-see architectural gem in the heart of New York City.
Belvedere Castle
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Belvedere Castle in Central Park, a historical landmark offering stunning views and a serene escape in vibrant Manhattan.
5th Ave
0.8 km
Discover the charm of 5th Avenue, a must-see destination in New York City filled with shopping, culture, and iconic landmarks.
Graffiti in the city
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant street art of Manhattan, where every corner tells a story through stunning graffiti murals and creative expressions.
Carnegie Hill Historic District
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Carnegie Hill Historic District, a serene gem in Manhattan's vibrant landscape.
Bethesda Terrace
1.1 km
Explore Bethesda Terrace, a historic gem in Central Park, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking views of New York City.
Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District
1.1 km
Explore the Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District, where history meets vibrant city life amidst stunning architecture and lush landscapes.
The San Remo
1.2 km
Explore The San Remo, a historic architectural gem on Central Park West, embodying the luxury and culture of Manhattan's iconic skyline.
Historic Landmark Preservation
1.2 km
Explore the Historic Landmark Preservation Museum in Manhattan to uncover the stories behind New York's iconic architecture and preservation efforts.
Upper East Side Historic District
1.3 km
Explore the elegant architecture and rich cultural heritage of the Upper East Side Historic District in Manhattan, a must-see for every New York visitor.
Daniel Webster Monument
1.3 km
Explore the Daniel Webster Monument in Central Park, a stunning tribute to American history and eloquence amidst nature's beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Neue Galerie New York
0.1 km
Explore the beauty of early 20th-century German and Austrian art at the Neue Galerie New York, a cultural gem in Manhattan's Upper East Side.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
0.2 km
Explore thousands of years of art and culture at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, a must-see destination for every traveler.
Church of St. Ignatius Loyola
0.3 km
Explore the stunning architecture and serene beauty of St. Ignatius Loyola in Manhattan, a must-visit spiritual and cultural landmark for every traveler.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
0.3 km
Explore the stunning architecture and rich collections of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, a pinnacle of modern art in New York City.
The American Irish Historical Society
0.4 km
Discover the American Irish Historical Society: A cultural treasure celebrating Irish heritage and history in the heart of Manhattan.
Central Park
0.4 km
Discover the beauty of Central Park, a sprawling urban oasis in New York City filled with iconic landmarks, lush gardens, and endless recreational opportunities.
Ukrainian Institute of America
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant culture and heritage of Ukraine at the Ukrainian Institute of America, a cultural gem on Manhattan's Upper East Side.
The New York Society Library
0.5 km
Explore the rich heritage and serene ambiance of The New York Society Library, a must-visit literary haven in Manhattan's historic Upper East Side.
The Central Park Turtle Pond
0.5 km
Explore the tranquility of Central Park's Turtle Pond, a serene escape in the heart of Manhattan with stunning views and abundant wildlife.
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
0.5 km
Discover the intersection of art and innovation at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City, a must-visit for design enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
The Milling Room
1.1 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at The Milling Room in Manhattan, where fresh ingredients meet innovative cooking.
The Smith
2.0 km
Savor exquisite American cuisine at The Smith in Manhattan—your go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and oysters.
ROBERT
2.3 km
Savor exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at Robert in Manhattan's Columbus Circle.
Per Se
2.3 km
Experience exquisite French fine dining at Per Se with stunning Central Park views and unforgettable culinary artistry.
The Modern
2.5 km
Experience fine dining at The Modern in NYC - where American and French cuisines meet artful presentation in an exquisite setting.
Le Bernardin
2.7 km
Discover unparalleled seafood delights at Le Bernardin – New York's premier French fine dining destination offering exquisite tastes and elegant ambiance.
Ellen's Stardust Diner
2.8 km
Experience Broadway magic while savoring classic American dishes at Ellen's Stardust Diner in New York City.
Maiella
3.8 km
Experience exquisite Italian dining at Maiella in Queens with stunning skyline views and authentic flavors.
Cafe Archetypus
4.0 km
Discover Cafe Archetypus in Edgewater: A charming cafe offering artisanal coffee and delicious pastries with stunning river views.
American Brass
4.1 km
Discover American Brass: A Culinary Haven in Long Island City Offering Fresh Seafood & Prime Steaks with Stunning Views.
Sugar Freak
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Creole cuisine at Sugar Freak in Astoria - where Southern hospitality meets culinary excellence.
Jackson's Eatery | Bar
4.3 km
Discover Jackson's Eatery | Bar in Long Island City: A perfect blend of American cuisine and vibrant atmosphere awaits you.
Hortus NYC
4.5 km
Experience unique Asian fusion flavors at Hortus NYC, where Korean culinary traditions meet modern innovation in Manhattan.
Oscar Wilde
4.6 km
Discover Oscar Wilde: A Victorian-inspired bistro and bar offering exquisite New American cuisine in the heart of Manhattan.
Upland
4.7 km
Experience the best of Californian-Italian cuisine at Upland in Manhattan - where vibrant flavors meet chic ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Boutique
1.0 km
Explore Unique Boutique, a charming thrift store in Manhattan, for one-of-a-kind vintage finds and eco-friendly shopping.
The Museum Shop
1.0 km
Explore The Museum Shop for unique gifts inspired by nature and science at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.
HINA
1.3 km
Discover unique home goods at HINA, where local charm meets modern design in the heart of the city.
Really Great Things NYC Boutique
1.7 km
Explore unique women's fashion, custom tailoring, and couture pieces at Really Great Things NYC Boutique in the heart of Manhattan.
New York Attitude Gift shop
2.5 km
Explore New York Attitude Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and a cozy bar atmosphere, capturing the vibrant spirit of the Big Apple.
I Love NY by Phantom of Broadway
2.8 km
Discover the spirit of New York at I Love NY by Phantom of Broadway, where every souvenir tells a story.
Rough Trade
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant music culture of New York City at Rough Trade, a record store and cultural hub for music lovers.
The Shop at NBC Studios
2.9 km
Explore unique souvenirs and NBC-themed gifts at The Shop at NBC Studios, a must-visit destination in the heart of New York City.
NiLu Gift Boutique
2.9 km
Explore the charm of NiLu Gift Boutique, where unique gifts and local crafts await every visitor in vibrant Harlem, New York City.
Ny's Best Gift Shop
2.9 km
Explore Ny's Best Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local treasures amidst the vibrant streets of Manhattan.
Gifts on the Square
3.0 km
Explore Gifts on the Square for unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the vibrant spirit of New York City, right in the heart of Times Square.
I Love NY Gifts by Phantom of Broadway
3.0 km
Explore I Love NY Gifts by Phantom of Broadway for the best selection of New York souvenirs and unique memorabilia that capture the city's essence.
Vintage Queens NYC
3.1 km
Explore the charm of Vintage Queens NYC, a unique boutique offering a curated selection of vintage clothing that tells a story.
Grand Slam New York
3.1 km
Explore the heart of Manhattan at Grand Slam New York, your go-to gift shop for souvenirs, toys, and sporting goods in the city that never sleeps.
Line Friends New York Times Square Store
3.3 km
Explore the whimsical world of Line Friends at the iconic Times Square store, a treasure trove of toys, fashion, and exclusive merchandise.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tanner Smith's
2.5 km
Discover Tanner Smith's, a stylish gastropub in Manhattan offering exquisite cocktails and modern American cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Strangelove Bar Nyc
2.7 km
Discover the eclectic ambiance of Strangelove Bar NYC, where craft cocktails meet a punk-rock vibe in the heart of Manhattan's nightlife.
PIMCO
2.8 km
Discover PIMCO, a key financial institution offering breathtaking views and a taste of Manhattan's vibrant economic life.
Lost in Paradise Rooftop
3.4 km
Discover Lost in Paradise Rooftop, an enchanting cocktail bar in Queens, offering breathtaking skyline views and expertly crafted drinks.
THE HUNTRESS whiskey, wings n’ other things
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of The Huntress in Long Island City, where gourmet wings, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Raines Law Room at The William
3.7 km
Experience the charm of Raines Law Room at The William, a cocktail bar in Manhattan known for unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
The Shannon Pot
3.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Shannon Pot, a cozy pub in Queens serving delicious food and a wide selection of drinks.
LIC Bar
3.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at LIC Bar in Long Island City, where great drinks and lively dancing create unforgettable memories.
Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill
3.9 km
Discover the lively Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill in Astoria, where delicious grilled dishes meet entertaining comedy and karaoke nights.
Diamond Dogs
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Astoria at Diamond Dogs, a cocktail bar and beer garden known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
The Beast Next Door
3.9 km
Discover The Beast Next Door, a cocktail bar in Long Island City, Queens, known for its inventive drinks and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any night out.
Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store
3.9 km
Discover the enchanting blend of live piano music and handcrafted cocktails at Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store in Manhattan.
Gantry Bar & Kitchen
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gantry Bar & Kitchen in Long Island City, serving delicious food and cocktails with a stunning Manhattan skyline view.
Madam Marie's
4.1 km
Discover Madam Marie's, a vibrant bar in Queens offering affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Dutch Kills
4.1 km
Experience the essence of New York nightlife at Dutch Kills, a cocktail bar in Long Island City known for its innovative drinks and speakeasy charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Night Encounters New York
2.7 km
Unleash your inner night owl at Night Encounters New York, where the rhythm of the city comes alive under dazzling lights.
Paradise Club
3.1 km
Dive into the heart of New York's nightlife at Paradise Club, where electrifying beats and unforgettable performances await.
Retroclubnyc
3.2 km
Retroclubnyc: The ultimate nightlife destination in New York City, blending electrifying music, dance, and vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Club 51 NYC
3.2 km
Dive into the electric atmosphere of Club 51 NYC, where New York's nightlife comes alive with pulsating beats and vibrant energy.
Musica Club NYC
3.3 km
Musica Club NYC: A vibrant night club in Manhattan offering eclectic music, signature drinks, and an unforgettable party atmosphere.
Nebula
3.5 km
Discover Nebula, a premier night club in Manhattan where electrifying beats meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of New York City.
Doha Bar Lounge- Brunch, Nightclub & Restaurant
3.9 km
Discover Doha Bar Lounge in Queens - a vibrant blend of nightlife, delicious brunches, and Latin American flavors, perfect for every occasion.
The Living Room Il
4.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Living Room Il, a vibrant Bronx lounge perfect for socializing and enjoying local nightlife.
Caraballo's Place
4.4 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Caraballo's Place, a vibrant night club in the Bronx offering energetic music and a lively atmosphere.
Coco La Reve
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Astoria at Coco La Reve, New York's premier night club with eclectic music and stylish ambiance.
Mission NYC
4.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Mission NYC, a premier night club in the heart of Manhattan, offering an unforgettable party experience.
Sugardaddy's Gentlemen's Club
4.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sugardaddy's Gentlemen's Club in Queens, where entertainment meets elegance for a truly unforgettable experience.
The Tunnel Nightclub
5.0 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Manhattan at The Tunnel Nightclub - where electrifying music meets an unforgettable party atmosphere.
Azucar Night Club
5.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Azucar Night Club in Union City, NJ - where music, dance, and culture meet for an unforgettable experience.
Electric Room
5.5 km
Discover Electric Room: An underground bar and lounge in NYC offering signature cocktails, vibrant events, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
