PLEASE NOTE: This post was written in 2017, and while it should still give you a good overview of the experience, it may also contain some outdated information. Please be sure to visit their website for the most up-to-date information, especially about things like hours & pricing.
2017 Post:
Mandy and I were so excited to hear about the grand opening of the BRAND NEW Jonathan’s Dream Playground on the Mandell JCC campus in West Hartford a few weeks ago! And not just because it promised to be even more amazing than the original.
You see, the original Jonathan’s Dream held a special place in our hearts. For starters, a visit to this playground was one of our very first outings for the blog!
Babies in the park circa 2011.
Also, as one of the original “Boundless Playgrounds,” Jonathan’s Dream opened our eyes to the world of accessible playgrounds and sent us on a quest to discover other Boundless Playgrounds all across CT.
While we were sad to see the old playground go (it was such a unique place), we knew that, after almost two decades, it was time for an update. And we have been following the renovation project and anxiously awaiting the opening of the NEW Jonathan’s Dream!
And on October 22, 2017, the dream became a reality!
Honestly, I must say this new playground exceeded all of my expectations. It has so many places to climb and slide and spin and swing and sway and zip and jump and bounce and even make music!
So today I’m just going to show you a few snapshots from our visit there last weekend. But for the full effect, you’ll just have to go check it out for yourselves 🙂
The playground is still located in the original spot. As you enter the JCC parking lot you’ll see the JCC building on your left, and the playground will be to your right.
Take a right at the stop sign to head towards the playground entrance.
You’ll see the Mandell JCC building on your left.
Plenty of parking outside the playground.
This is a fully fenced-in playground (yay!). And the gate latches when you enter. So small kids won’t be able to sneak out by accident.
In fact, if you’re anything like me, you may not be able to get out either! Haha!
To open the gate to get out, you have to push in that little button where the lock is. Took me a good couple minutes of trying to look cool but really having no idea how to open the dang thing to figure that out. Haha! You’re welcome 🙂
It’s a good thing this playground is fully fenced-in, because once your kiddos are inside they are going to take off in any number of directions!
There are so many unique features.
Kevin’s Kourt with hoops of all heights.
One of the massive climbing structures.
An area for music-making.
Another large playscape.
This double zip line was a hit with kids big and small! Plus with two ways to zip–either in a seat with a harness or on a swing–all kids can have the experience.
The airplane zip line.
Some of my kids’ favorite activities were just simple structures that could take them for a spin!
Lots of swings.
Covered picnic area.
This playground is massive! And the play areas are nicely spaced. So even when there are a lot of people there it doesn’t feel too overcrowded (we went on a Saturday afternoon and it was hoppin’!). Another big plus: no more mulch! The ground cover is now that cushiony synthetic surface. It’s great for protecting kiddos from a tumble. And also makes a much smoother ride for strollers and wheel chairs. We were also happy to see that the water fountain remained. It’s becoming such a luxury to be able to grab a quick sip or fill up a water bottle at a park! You don’t see drinking fountains around that much anymore. Oh, and benches. Lots of benches! Weary parents everywhere are immensely grateful 🙂
So next time your kiddos have energy to burn, take them over to the NEW Jonathan’s Dream playground in West Hartford. It’s so much fun, you might just have to pinch yourself to make sure it’s not actually a dream!
Have you been? Tell us your kiddo’s favorite activity in the NEW Jonathan’s Dream playground!
Jonathan’s Dream Playground
Mandell JCC Campus
335 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford, CT
Hours:
One hour after sunrise to 1/2 hour before sunset.
Pricing:
FREE!
Details:
Stroller Friendly: YES
Coffee Mug Friendly: YES
Restroom: Porta-potty
Baby Changing Station: NO
Parking: YES
Food for Sale: NO
Outside Food Allowed: YES
Cash Required: N/A
Age Recommendations: All ages!
Dress Code: NO.
Evening/Weekend Hours: YES
Discounts: N/A
Birthday Party Venue: N/A
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Thank you for the beautiful review of Jonathan’s Dream.
Thank your pointing out the lock on the inside of the playground, the word push is on the handle but nobody can see it so we are getting a sticker that will say push.
We are looking for people who will be willing to be involved with programing at the playground (story time, scavenger hunt, art etc). If anybody is interested please contact Ronit Shoham at 860-558-5313