New York Hall of Science Unveils Largest U.S. Science Playground

Press Release

New York Hall of Science Unveils Largest U.S. Science Playground
2-13-07

Queens, N.Y. – Go down a rabbit hole into a wonderland unlike any other when the New York Hall of Science unveils a 30,000-square-foot preschool addition to the Science Playground on June 23. Shelter, mirrors, sand and music are just some of the new paths to discovery that visitors can choose from in the expanded exhibition.

“This rich and playful new addition will serve the Hall’s increasing number of family visitors with preschool-age children,” said Hall President & CEO Marilyn Hoyt. “Children of all ages can have fun while learning fundamental science that will serve them well as they grow into their school years through interactive experiences in the expanded Science Playground.”

Led by BKSK Architects, the $2.7 million expansion begins with the notion that all children’s play is learning and invites inquiry through exploration, discovery and hands-on experimentation. Landscape is the organizing element, complimenting the earlier section’s focus on principles of physics. The hills, valleys, shrubs, and deciduous and evergreen planting will become an integral part of the sensory experience.

New exhibit areas include:

Bridge Path – Meandering through and managing the landscape: Man-made hills allow children to play in a safe scaled environment learning how to master their environment and the physical challenges it presents. Two footbridges, a Snake Path and Timber Obstacle Climb allow visitors to compare differing vantage points.
Shelter Path – Making shelter in the landscape: Children explore the concept of inside and outside, light and dark, open and closed. Alone or in groups, children can play in a giant Rabbit Hole or an Interactive Nest. Other components include a Sunshade House, an In/Out House and a Peek-A-Boo Playhouse.
Sand Path – Modifying the landscape: Three Sand Boxes (one with a sand conveyor) and a Mushroom Pump let children become builders in an environment where materials can change shape and consistency. By working with other children to create new forms the exhibit also provides an opportunity for socialization and role-playing.
Mirror Path – Mirroring the landscape: Colored glass and mirrors transform the landscape, enhancing colors and allowing children to see themselves and the landscape reflected in different ways. Exhibit components include a Glass Tunnel, Blue Sky House, Colored Glass Partitions and Mirror Walls.
Music Path – Making music in the landscape: The Music Path encourages children to explore the music in nature and make their own special sound with African, Asian and Caribbean drums. A sophisticated mechanism embedded in the ground creates a deep, water mist to shroud the path in mystery.

Major capital support for this project was provided by the Office of the Queens Borough President, The Honorable Helen M. Marshall through the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, Commissioner Kate D. Levin. Construction was managed by the New York City Department of Design and Construction, Commissioner David J. Burney, AIA.

The 2007 season of the Science Playground is presented by Con Edison; promotional partner, Multicultural Radio Broadcasting Inc.

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Media Contact: Carol Nordin 718.699.0005 ext. 342