There are two brand new playgrounds in front of City Hall and they’re beautiful! Located on the northeast and Southeast corners of the plaza, these state of the art play areas consist of long slides, artsy illuminated sculptures and climbing structures that look like flying saucers! But traditionalists shouldn’t worry, there are still some good old fashioned tire swings.

The Helen Miller Civic center Playgrounds are named after the late philanthropist whose family foundation payed for their construction. Together the two play areas cost $10 million, which (fun fact!) is three times what it cost to build City Hall in 1913!

The two playgrounds are part of a $30 million effort by the Recreation and Park Department to improve downtown spaces. This effort includes a $9 million renovation of Boeddeker Park, a $4 million batting cage at Draves Park and a $3 million remodel of Macaulay Playground.

As of this month, the civic center parks are open to the public. Adult visitors must be accompanied by children or they will be asked to leave. So bring your favorite little humans and see it for yourself.