Luckey Climber

Completed in 2011, the Luckey Climber is the signature playground feature at The Commons and one of Columbus’s most distinctive public art and play experiences. The custom-designed structure was inspired by community input gathered during workshops with local children, who shared their ideas for a new playground filled with climbers, mazes, tunnels, and slides.

Created by artist and architect Tom Luckey and installed by his son Spencer Luckey of East New Haven, Connecticut, the Luckey Climber reflects the family’s nationally recognized approach to imaginative climbing structures. Built around five steel columns, the installation features custom-designed curved plywood platforms connected to create a one-of-a-kind play environment. The platforms are linked by six miles of coated stainless steel aircraft cable, along with additional support and netting for safe climbing.

Set within the crystalline playground pavilion at The Commons, the Luckey Climber is both a dynamic public art piece and a modern jungle gym. Sometimes nicknamed “Chaos No. 2,” it has become a central attraction of the playground and a memorable feature of downtown Columbus.