The Playroom at Hippo Parkhouse is an indoor space, perfect for birthday parties and other special events. The space features tables, chairs, a refrigerator, and a microwave. Two time slots are available daily: 9am – 11:30pm, and 12:30pm – 3pm.
Cost: $600
The rental fee is $600 per time slot, plus a $150 deposit. The deposit will be refunded within 14 days if no damages (beyond normal wear and tear) or excessive cleaning are needed. Upfront payment for the rental is $750 total.
Please note that Hippo Parkhouse rentals must be fully confirmed and paid for two weeks in advance. For further information, pricing, and any questions, please contact [email protected].
Book the Playroom
Click here to view the Playroom at Hippo Parkhouse contract. Please note: your reservation will not be confirmed until after signing the contract. Contracts will be sent directly to your email via DocuSign after booking your reservation request.
Basic Amenities
- Furniture: The facility comes equipped with 6 child-sized tables, 24 child-size chairs, 6 folding tables and 10 folding chairs. Tables and chairs available (must be returned to original positions). Furniture may not be removed from the Parkhouse.
- Lighting: Standard indoor lighting
- Ventilation: Fans and windows (no air conditioning)
- Electricity & Outlets: Available for use
- Kitchen: We do have a small fridge, freezer, microwave, and a small sink at the Parkhouse.
Facilities & Accessibility
- Restrooms: Nearby public restrooms within Riverside Park connected to the Parkhouse.
- Parking: Limited street parking nearby (no designated parking lot).
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The space is not wheelchair accessible, but the space is on the ground floor with no stairs.
- Public Transportation: The Parkhouse is accessible via the M5 bus at 91st Street and Riverside Drive, and the 1/2/3 trains at 96th Street.
Additional Features
- WiFi: Not available
- Audio Equipment: We do not have any audio equipment set, but you can bring a small portable speaker for your party.
- Outdoor Access: The Hippo Playground is adjacent to the Parkhouse.
- Food/Drinks: Food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed inside the Parkhouse.
- Other Restrictions: Alcohol and smoking of any substance is prohibited.
Photos of the Playroom
Hippo Parkhouse Rental FAQs
How do I book the space?
To book the Playroom at Hippo Parkhouse, please click here.
What is the maximum capacity of the rental space?
The Playroom at Hippo Parkhouse can accommodate up to 30 people.
Can I reserve outdoor spaces like the playground or picnic tables?
Playground areas and picnic tables are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. If you seek to reserve a space outside of the playground and its picnic tables and if you have more than 25 people attending that gathering, you will need a special event permit from the NYC Parks.
How long is my rental period?
Each reservation is for a 2.5-hour time slot, including setup and cleanup time.
Can I extend my rental time?
No, you must vacate the Parkhouse at the end of your reserved time.
What if I don’t clean up after my event?
If excessive cleaning is required, your deposit may be used to cover cleaning costs.
How much does it cost to rent the Parkhouse?
The rental fee is $600 per time slot, plus a $150 deposit. The deposit will be refunded if no damages (beyond normal wear and tear) or excessive cleaning are needed.
Is a deposit required?
Yes, a $150 deposit is required at the time of booking.
How can I make a payment?
Payments must be made upfront by credit card at the time of booking. Please follow the instructions on the Parkhouse’s booking system, located here. Please note that no reservation is confirmed until the payment is made and the contract is executed.
For any questions regarding payment, please reach out to [email protected].
Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 14 days before the event and receive a refund, minus a $100 cancellation fee. Cancellations made within 14 days of the event will not be refunded, but the $150 deposit will be returned.
What happens if it rains, the temperature is very warm or if there is other bad weather?
The cancellation policy remains the same; there are no refunds due to weather conditions.
Can I bring my own decorations?
Yes, but all decorations must be temporary and removed after the event. Pinatas are not allowed.
Can I do arts and crafts in the Parkhouse?
Yes, but only washable paints, markers, and crayons are permitted.
Can I have entertainment like a DJ or live music?
You may need a permit from the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation for certain types of entertainment so please check the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation website.
Can I bring live animals to the party?
Live animals are not permitted in the Parkhouse; service animals are permitted.
Can I serve alcohol at my event?
No, alcohol, smoking (including e-cigarettes), and drugs are strictly prohibited.
Are there any penalties for misconduct?
Yes, violations of rules, including disrespect toward staff or breaking NYC Parks regulations, may result in denial of future rentals.
Are there cleaning supplies at the Hippo Parkhouse?
Garbage bags are provided (renters must bring paper towels and other cleaning supplies).
What if I lose something during my event?
Riverside Park Conservancy is not responsible for any lost or missing items. You can contact the Riverside Park Conservancy’s main office at 212-870-3070 or [email protected] to see if any of their staff turned in the lost item.