Waltham’s New Park is Now New England’s Largest Sensory Playground

On the site of what was once the country's oldest institution serving people with developmental disabilities is now New England's largest sensory-friendly playground.

Spread over 190-acres in Waltham is a massive park featuring a playground, walking trails, a spray pad, fitness areas, a Nature Area, 18-hole mini golf and even a fairy garden.

Though only open since May, it's already become a wildly popular destination for family day trips.

200 Trapelo was once the Walter E. Fernald State School, originally opened in 1848 as the Massachusetts School for the Feeble-Minded. It was a less-than-ideal name for a school with a dark past.

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Over the 100 plus years it operated, Fernald housed thousands of residents of various ages and abilities. It became a model for state institutions for the developmentally disabled, but sadly it also became the site of medical experiments on children.

A Historic Site Reimagined

Despite the dark history, the city is hoping to change the narrative surrounding the site by creating New England's largest universal and sensory-friendly playground.

This park truly offers a wide range of accessible features that are open to all visitors.

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The city made sure this new playground was created with ADA compliance and inclusion for all at the forefront of every decision. The result is a truly spectacular park with something for everyone.

What You'll Find at 200 Trapelo Park

From fitness to water fun, playground to putting greens this park is sure to entertain guests for hours. So if you need a new play area to explore, there's not many places in Massachusetts to see more than 200 Trapelo Park in Waltham.