Erector Set Maze

Climb through a towering architectural marvel inspired by Salem native A.C. Gilbert's legendary building sets! At 52.5 feet tall, this is the tallest outdoor play structure in the area - a complex industrial grid of silver beams and platforms that challenges confident climbers to navigate multiple levels while building physical resilience, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills. 

Young adventurers map their own routes through interconnected ladders, platforms, and tunnels, discovering three different slides positioned throughout the maze. Choose a quick descent from the mid-level blue slide, find the open slide at an intermediate height, or venture all the way to the summit for the high-speed spiral tube that rewards brave climbers with the ultimate exit. Observation decks offer panoramic views where explorers can pause, survey the entire Outdoor Discovery Area, and feel the accomplishment of reaching new heights. 

From engineering problem-solving (which route reaches the top fastest?) to physical confidence-building and spatial navigation, every climb through this iconic tribute to A.C. Gilbert's construction legacy offers new challenges and deeper appreciation for architectural design. 

    • Multi-Level Metal Grid: A 52.5-foot industrial structure that invites vertical exploration and architectural wonder 

    • Three-Level Slides: Exit points positioned at various heights, including a high-speed spiral tube and a mid-level open slide 

    • Observation Platforms: Strategic levels that allow climbers to pause and survey the entire Outdoor Discovery Area from above 

    • echnology: Navigating a complex, engineered structure to understand its unique layout and industrial design 

    • Physical Abilities: Testing personal limits through climbing and building physical resilience and confidence 

    • Engineering Basics: Modifying navigation plans as new paths and obstacles are discovered during the climb 

    • Spatial Awareness: Mapping out a unique route through a complex, towering industrial environment 

    • Physical Abilities: Using gross motor skills to conquer ladders and move between different heights 

    • Problem Solving: Determining the most efficient path to reach a specific slide or platform 

Explore More 

This exhibit is located in Outdoor Discovery Area. Also explore: Ball Run | Tumble Land | Adventure Avenue 

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  • Close-up of sandy beach with shallow water, smooth stones, and ripples, showing intricate reflections and patterns in the water.
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  • A young girl with glasses smiling and sitting at the end of a green slide, with her arms outstretched holding the slide's sides.