18th Century Boston was a constant hubbub of yelling sailors, crashing crates and the grating gears of development. Once thought to exist only in the pages of history texts, Heritage Park attempts to walk its young park goers through the sights and scenes. Trundling water wheels are set on narrow streams dug into the carpet grass, flowing over minor drops in a tinkling cascade. Roughly cut stone held together by thick layers of mortar form vintage barriers sectioning the various facilities within the park. Lighted basketball courts for some hoop shooting fun and picnic areas dotted across the islands of green between the paths make for an easy afternoon with the family.

Kids, bursting with energy like pinballs in a slot machine, are sure to zone in on the iconic playing area of the park. Buildings with brick walls and spotless white wooden plank entrances intriguingly obscure the play equipment. The kids don the robes of the industrious urchins of Boston, scurrying across attics and roofs, slipping down dim tunnels spiraling down from the bell tower of a church. It’s the start of the American Revolution all over at this curious playground weaving together the indoor equipment and park exterior. While the kids amuse themselves, take the time to snap photographs of the unique sets and backdrops, a favorite of couples young and old who are at the park. If learning through play was anything to go by, Heritage Park checks all the right boxes for a whimsical family outing.