Samuel N. Bennerson 2nd Playground

Location and Setting

Tucked between Amsterdam Avenue and West End Avenue on West 64th Street in Manhattan, Samuel N. Bennerson 2nd Playground offers a welcome breath of urban recreation space. It's located near Lincoln Center and adjacent to the Amsterdam Houses public housing community.

Modern Basketball Facilities

In 2018, this playground got a serious upgrade, particularly to its basketball areas. Now boasting two basketball courts - one complete with an actual scoreboard - it's become something of a neighborhood hotspot. The western edge features spectator bleachers, meant for cheering on friends or just taking in the action.

One court features three different three-point lines, accommodating everyone from beginners to more experienced players. These courts rarely sit empty, with pickup games and friendly competitions bringing the space to life throughout the week.

Children's Play Area

Beyond basketball, the playground offers various climbing structures that keep the younger crowd thoroughly entertained. The design accommodates kids of different ages and abilities.

Families particularly appreciate the numerous swings for children of all ages - a simple but essential feature that never goes out of style. There's also plenty of open space for running around, making it an ideal spot for burning off that boundless kid energy.

Picnic Area

Need a break? The picnic tables scattered throughout provide perfect spots to catch your breath, enjoy a snack, or keep an eye on playing children. These tables provide space for both rest and socializing.

Amenities

Note that despite all its offerings, the playground does not have public restrooms on site. It's something to keep in mind when planning your visit, especially with younger children.

Historical Significance

This community fixture has deeper roots than you might expect, dating back to 1949 when it first opened as an NYC Park. The space evolved significantly during a complete reconstruction in 1982, when the basketball facilities were added.

Today, the playground is used for recreation by families and nearby schools that use the space for recess and outdoor activities.