We bought this last summer.  It's time consuming to put together, but my husband and I did it in a couple days (4 kids so couldn't commit to long periods of time).  Our kids absolutely love it!  There are many features to keep them busy.  The only negative feedback I'd give is that it's only been a year, and the wood faded a ton in that time frame. It will need stained every year.  We live in windy Wyoming, so I don't think a tarp would hold up well on it.