The Pearl Street Playground isn't actually new; it's an old play spot that's been completely overhauled as part of the Lower Manhattan Redevelopment project. While it's not a Destination Playground like Imagination Playground just a few blocks south, its location at the end of Fulton Street across the way from the South Street Seaport makes it worth filing away since we all end up in the area at some time or another.

The playground is what many would call a tot lot. It doesn't have the fancy newfangled equipment you find at a lot of new playgrounds. What it does have is a nice water play area with a sprinkler, a water pump running into a canal and a sand lot. There are also toddler swings, a rarity in many playgrounds, and two climbing structures, one specifically for toddlers and the other for older children.

The equipment is pretty standard, but there are many elements for imaginative play, including two house-like structures, steering wheels and nautical-themed attractions. A huge nautical rope is great for balancing, climbing and swinging.

Around the perimeter of the playground is some nice landscaping with benches, plants and large rocks. The city thankfully retained the large trees that offer some shade. So next time you're in the area and need a place to play (especially if Imagination Playground is overrun), check out the new Pearl Street Playground.

Pearl Street Playground is located on Pearl Street between Fulton and Beekman Streets.

Read about other wonderful New York City parks and playgrounds.