Just as one might not know about the magnificent Boonton Falls, it’s just as easy to not know about Grace Lord Park Playground in Boonton. They both sit in a residential area and aren’t immediately visible from the roadways, especially when you’re driving down Main Street. And if you traveling through Downtown Boonton you might not know either of these fabulous locations exist.
We talk often about these little gems in New Jersey that few people know about and this is one of them. Nowhere else in New Jersey will you find a treehouse-themed playground just steps away from a waterfall.
We first visited Grace Lord Park as part of our project to feature New Jersey hiking trails with waterfalls in 2021. We didn’t report on the playground too much then so we knew we needed to return this summer as part of our challenge to visit New Jersey playgrounds all over New Jersey.
10 Things to Know About Grace Lord Park Playground in Boonton
As part of our challenge to write about 100 New Jersey playgrounds in 100 days we bring you the details about Grace Lord Park Playground, a playground in Boonton. Our pictures and these details are based on our August 17, 2022 visit.
Where is Grace Lord Park Playground located?
This Morris County playground is located at West Main and Essex Avenue. The park is part of the Boonton park system.
What kind of playground equipment does Grace Lord Park have?
The playground has a treehouse theme that will have kids feeling like they are playing in a ‘Kid’s Only’ treehouse tucked among the trees. On one side of the playground are two treehouses connected by climbable rock boulders. On the other side of the playground is an additional treehouse. Monkey bars connect the two sets of treehouses.
Are there swings?
There are two swing sets. One swing set has 2 baby swings.
The other swingset has 6 traditional swings.
Are there slides?
There are two open slides. One slide is a twisting slide on one end of one of the treehouses. The other slide is a long curvy slide on another treehouse.
What special features does the playground offer?
Special features include unique ways to climb into the treehouse such as tree log steps, boulders, twisting ladders, and a rope ladder that’s almost like a tunnel.
There are monkey bars that connect the treehouse structures together.
There is one of those rollers that kids stand on and attempt to roll with their feet.
Adjacent to the playground is a yellow truck play structure.
There is even adorable natured-theme seating like the bench made to look like a tree log and the seats that resemble the top of an acorn.
What kind of ground cover does the playground have?
The ground cover is wood mulch.
Is the playground at Grace Lord Park accessible?
Accessibility is limited at this playground. There are no accessible swings or ramps onto the playground equipment. There are some ground-level sensory play areas and a panel to teach others the alphabet in sign language.
Is there shade available at the Grace Lord Park?
There is some shade provided by the rooftops of the treehouses and the trees that line the area on the one side of the playground.
Additionally, there is a shady play area under one side of the playground equipment.
Next to the playground swings, there is a picnic table and bench underneath a tree. A gazebo is located just a short distance away.
Where is parking for Grace Lord Park?
This is our second visit to the park and we have not seen a parking lot on either visit. There is some residential street parking and street parking on Main Street available. Please watch for signs advising where parking is not allowed.
Are there restrooms at Grace Lord Park?
There are no restrooms at this park.
What else is there to do at Grace Lord Park?
There aren’t really any amenities at Grace Lord Park, but what there is … the Boonton Falls is pretty fabulous. It’s one of the most manageable New Jersey hiking trails with waterfalls.
Are there walking trails?
There is not a paved walking trail, but there is a gravel/dirt path that starts at the street, passes the playground, and then proceeds down to the waterfall and a stone arch bridge. At the bridge walkers can either follow around to see part of the other side of the waterfall or they can turn back.
Are there fields or courts for sports?
There is some open grassy area but there are no fields or courts.
Bonus information we want you to know about Grace Lord Park
The Boonton area is rich in history and beauty. In addition to the Boonton Falls there is the New Jersey Iron Company and other buildings that have since been abandoned. The Morris Canal transport system once was passed through these ways as well. There is a booming downtown with all kinds of shops to enjoy, places to eat, and more. Make sure you stop for ice cream in town to finish out a day of playing on the playground and hiking the trail to see the falls.
Who do I contact about having a birthday party or event at Grace Lord Park Playground?
We provide these details about this Boonton playground as a service to our readers and the park. However, Jersey Family Fun is not directly involved with this park. To reserve Grace Lord Park playground for a birthday party or private event, please contact them directly by calling (973) 402-9410 or visiting their website.
Find more great playgrounds in New Jersey
Visit Morris County parks and playgrounds to learn more about playgrounds near this one. Visit our series on New Jersey Playgrounds and Parks to learn more about the great playgrounds across our state.