The Arthur Ross Pinetum Playground

It gets easily overlooked because of the close vicinity of the Reservoir, but this place can be a relaxing spot. I have noticed several dog excrements on the grass, though, so watch where you sit/​walk.

Can you believe, that in all of New York City, it is nearly impossible to find an adult-​sized swing set? There are so many Tot Lots, and if you try to get in without having a child with you, you’re just a little bit eepy-​cray. Most of them have that diaper seat anyway, and I’m not trying to get stuck in one of those.
… again.
Arthur Ross to the rescue! Wandering in the park, just south of the reservoir & the police station, we stumbled upon a lovely pine tree-​shaded play area with winding walkways, plush green grass, and SWINGS! There’s a set of kiddie swings next to the adult swings, and there’s also a pair of chin-​up bars to exercise on if you’re feeling macho. There are a couple of softball fields, basketball courts, and hard-​top volleyball courts in the immediate vicinity — wouldn’t it be nice to relax after a game here? I thought so too.
Central Park’s website tells me that Arthur Ross was a passionate tree enthusiast who was determined to bring pine trees back to Central Park. There are 17 different species of pine trees here! I can honestly say I didn’t notice the different species, but I *did* notice the comfortable, quiet, shady, relaxing atmosphere that the trees created in this little playground. The slight breeze winds its way through the pines & cools you off on hot summer days. Besides, when is the last time you challenged someone to a swing-​off? «I bet I can swing higher than you!» Thanks to Arthur Ross, I can say that it was just this past week — and I won! :)

The previous reviews are about the space, not about the playground. It’s not much of a playground. There are swings, in shade, and they have normal swings and kiddie swings. That’s it. Oh, there’s also a short-​ish chin-​up bar, and a taller one. Yeah that’s about it. Picnic benches are around, and the pine trees (I’ve also seen nicer pinetums). Don’t go out of your way for this one, it’s labelled as a playground on the Conservancy maps, but man does it barely make it. You live, you learn. We left here, took a lovely turn around the Great Lawn, and hung out with the Manship bears in the Hoffman (?) playground. Don’t worry Central Park, I still love you tons.

A great quiet place in the park!

Dogs are allowed offleash all around this area and the Great Oval before 9:00 every day. If you like dogs, it’s fun to see the parade of breeds and look-​alike owners. I am one of them!

DELIGHTFUL conifer-​filled area with picnic tables and seats near the western side of Central Park.