Hanover’s 33‑Acre Playground for All Ages
Picture this: a sunny spring afternoon in Hanover, the zing of a line-drive in a batting cage, the laughter of people enjoying mini golf on a first date. Then, step inside the adjoining Sportsplex (all 100,000 square feet of it) and the soundtrack shifts to squeaking sneakers, thumping volleyballs, and the unmistakable roar of parents in the bleachers.
At Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park—New England’s largest sports and entertainment destination, and, quite possibly, the South Shore’s happiest address—that’s everyday.
“Our mission has never wavered,” says Heidi Prisco, Director of Marketing. “Whether you’re five or fifty‑five, we want you to walk out of Starland feeling like you just made a lifelong memory with people you love.”
From Mini‑Golf Memories to a Multi‑Sport Mecca
Founded as a family entertainment center more than five decades ago, Starland was once best known for its bumper boats and driving range. In 2013, its impact grew: They added eight climate-controlled hardwood courts, two indoor turf fields, and a full-service restaurant, all while preserving the charm and nostalgia of its Fun Park roots. Today, the complex occupies 33 acres and welcomes everyone from Level Up Hoops AAU athletes to toddlers navigating their first bumper‑car ride.
What’s New: Thrills for Every Age
If you haven’t visited lately, prepare for an adrenaline upgrade. Last year, Starland introduced gamified go‑karts—picture “Mario Kart” in real life, complete with power‑ups and bragging rights. This season brings three brand‑new outdoor attractions:
Drop Tower—a sky‑high plunge for the fearless.
Spin Coaster—expect centrifugal smiles.
Frog Jump Around—Starland’s first ride designed especially for children who can sit up on their own (36" and taller).
Rec Room Bar & Grill
Inside, the arcade, with more than 70 games, now pairs perfectly with the Rec Room Bar & Grill, opened in April 2023. Order a South Shore‑style bar pizza, sip a craft cocktail and challenge your friends to darts, giant Jenga or an hour of unlimited arcade play for just ten dollars—while the kids burn tokens downstairs.
Fuel for Play
Between games, grab a Counter Culture cold brew and a New York‑worthy OMG! bagel at FUEL Espresso & Bagel Co., an ICEE or popcorn from the concession stand, or a seasonal pour in the outdoor Beer Garden. Four distinct dining spots keep spectators satisfied and day‑campers energized. For kids included in Starland’s Rec program—one of the area’s most beloved camps for kids aged 5-11—lunch is included.
Building Community One Game at a Time
Through the power of joy, Starland’s impact stretches far beyond its turf—and in terms of supporting the community, the company also puts its money where its mouth is. They donate to more than 100 local fund‑raisers each year, sponsor youth teams, partner with the Wonderfund to give foster children new experiences, and serve as a first job for many South Shore teens. Recent collaborations range from hosting Hanover Pride’s trivia night to providing workspace for Cristo Rey High School interns and an upcoming event for Empower, a support group for children who have lost a parent.
Looking Ahead
With capacity for 4,000‑guest corporate buyouts and an ever‑expanding roster of leagues, clinics and private events, Starland only continues to grow. . “We love that the South Shore combines natural beauty, historic charm, and tight‑knit neighborhoods,” Prisco says. “Our goal for the next five years is simple: keep giving the community—kids and adults alike—new reasons to play together.”
If You Go
Where: 637 Washington St., Hanover
Hours & attraction passes: starlandsports.com
Instagram: starlandsportsplexandfun
Facebook: Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park
Tiktok: @starlandsportsplexandfun
X: Starland_Sports
Youtube: @StarlandSportsplexFunPark
Whether you’re chasing a personal best on the rock wall, rallying on the pickleball court or belting karaoke tunes after dark, Starland proves that in the heart of the South Shore, childhood wonder isn’t reserved for children. It’s alive and well—waiting just past the go‑kart finish line.