NEW ORLEANS (press release) – A jewel of New Orleans City Park, Storyland is an enchanted playground that has been in New Orleanians’ backyards since the 1950s. In Storyland, children can climb aboard Captain Hook’s pirate ship, adventure into the mouth of Pinocchio’s whale or scamper up Jack & Jill’s hill.
This outdoor, fairy-tale playground is a child’s dream come true filled with 18 larger-than-life storybook sculptures, featuring classic characters from Grimm and Mother Goose nursery rhymes and Trickster character induced folk-tales from around the world. Children can have fun, play, and learn, all while running under the shade of City Park’s majestic oak tree canopies.
But wait…Storyland is getting even better! Nearly 35 years after its last major renovation and after 60 years of play, the revitalization will include four new exhibits and upgrades to the existing site, creating an environment that will allow participants to enjoy deeper interaction with the stories through outdoor play, education, and entertainment by using educational methods such as STEM and Inclusive Play. In addition, ADA accessibility will be ensured for more exhibits.
Not only will all of Storyland be revitalized – including the beloved 18 exhibits such as: Pinocchio and the Whale, Hey Diddle Diddle, the Storyland Castle, and the Puff the Magic Dragon slide, but the renovation will breathe new life into the popular spot for children’s birthday parties.
New exhibits include Jack and the Beanstalk, Humpty Dumpty, Tortoise and the Hare, and Boudreaux the Zydeco Gator.
This announcement comes on the heels of Storyland being named this month byForbes ‘among best family-travel activities in New Orleans’. That story can be read here.
WHEN: Storyland will close starting July 8, 2019
The grand reopening date will be announced near the end of summer and Storyland will reopen in early fall.
“Storyland is a treasured part of New Orleans. Generations of children have memories of the dragon slide and three little pigs. This true gem in City Park will be revitalized this year, restoring the existing site and adding new additions creating an environment that will bring deeper interaction with the fairytales through fun, play, and education,” said Bob Becker, CEO for New Orleans City Park.
