Innovation is a complex phenomenon that relies on a multitude of factors coming together in just the right way. But evidence suggests that play – engaging ourselves in an activity for the pure enjoyment of the process – is an important piece of the puzzle. A number of experts on the science of creativity and innovation, cited in this paper, believe that it is uniquely within a state of play that our minds are most receptive to discovery. Freedom from external pressures enables us to experiment and take risks, ultimate forming new connections between ideas. Play is also an effective social connector, helping to build trust and open up the channels of communication. Informed by research on the science of play, principles of environmental psychology, and pertinent case studies, this paper seeks to identify strategies for creating environments that support innovation through play.