While it’s known as a crowded urban area, there are lots of green spaces in NYC where you can unwind, engage in sports, and spend time in nature. So, if you find yourself wanting some greenery in NYC, don’t worry, because you have plenty of choices.
In this article, I’ll share the 15 best public spaces and the features that make them stand apart in NYC. We’ll cover the recognizable parks like Central Park and Riverside, as well as lesser-known parks in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Things in the Big Apple are grand, and the city parks are no different!
Keep reading to learn where to find the best picnic areas, nature trails, sports fields, and playgrounds in New York, then download the map at the end so you do not miss any of these beautiful parks.
Table of Contents
1. Central Park, the most famous New York City park
Central Park is one of the largest parks in New York City, so it’s impossible to visit NYC without going there. Spending some time in Central Park is one of the best things to do in New York City, so dedicate a few hours to explore this urban green area.
Here, you can find just about anything you’d want in a park, from playgrounds and picnic areas to public art and recreation facilities. There are way too many things to do in Central Park to list right here, but some of the highlights include the Central Park Carousel, Wollman Rink, and Belvedere Castle.
Throughout the day, NYC`s Central Park is filled with individuals lounging in the North Meadow zone and congregating at the Bethesda Fountain area, or simply passing through during their commute. Should you have the available time, stroll through the park grounds, and check out the famous sculptures, such as the sled dog Balto or characters from Alice in Wonderland.
As one of the premier parks in Manhattan that are ideal for families with children, there are enjoyable activities here to do together, like boating on The Lake, climbing up the rocky structures, or exploring the museums along the park. The open areas and green spaces are perfect for taking a rest, while the fields for sports and courts for ball games can help the kids release some energy.
You’ll also notice many walking and jogging paths throughout the park, but if you are spending three days in NYC and are tight on time, one of the best approaches to explore this lush pocket of nature is by doing this bike tour. It’s contained in the New York Pass, or you can lease a bike on your own.
2. Brooklyn Bridge Park, another iconic park in NYC
Switching boroughs, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a fantastic park in Brooklyn, NY that you should visit. It’s under the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, along the East River, granting you the most excellent waterfront views in NYC and a variety of things to do.
The park has diverse areas, each with unique landscaping, amenities, and features. For instance, sections at Piers 2 and 5 offer sports fields and courts for basketball, bocce, handball, shuffleboard, lacrosse, and soccer. Pier 5 also maintains a marina running community kayaking programs sometimes free of charge.
Visiting Brooklyn Bridge Park presents a worthwhile activity in NYC for families with children. For travelers with younger kids, I suggest exploring Pier 6, where engaging playground areas await. When accompanying older children or friends wishing a more comprehensive experience, I recommend this guided walking tour. It covers the Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO, one of Brooklyn`s premier districts known for boutiques, cafes, galleries and river perspectives.
3. Riverside Park, a lovely NYC park by the water
Riverside Park is another waterfront green space located in New York City; this one stretches along the Hudson River in the Upper West Side region. Though smaller in size, it maintains various engaging sights and entertaining activities.
Similar to other NYC parks, Riverside features several memorials and statues throughout, like the Eleanor Roosevelt Monument, the Joan of Arc Memorial, and Grant`s Tomb, the final resting place of President Ulysses S. Grant. Walkways and bike paths also wind through the park, such as the aptly-named Cherry Walk lined with beautiful cherry trees.
Indeed, Riverside Park is one of the prime natural spots in New York City, and it’s particularly well-liked among birdwatchers. Over 170 bird species have been spotted at the park, such as red-tailed hawks, peregrine falcons, kestrels, and mallards.
If you prefer activities that are more lively, Riverside also has three sections for dogs to exercise, a skatepark, soccer and baseball fields, and courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball. There are a few playgrounds as well, with Hippo Playground being particularly popular. It includes jungle gyms, swings, sandboxes, and boisterous hippopotamus fountains.
4. Washington Square Park, a nice NYC park in Greenwich Village
Washington Square Park is among NYC`s most scenic parks and notable landmarks. Situated in Greenwich Village along Fifth Avenue, Washington Square Park stands out for its renowned gateway, modeled after Paris’ Arc de Triomphe.
Situated before the arch is the focal point known as the Washington Square Fountain, commonly referred to as the locale where locals and visitors spend recreational time. On any day, street performers can be seen entertaining crowds around the large volume of water which holds 32,000 gallons across its central and perimeter spray components. During summer months, children and sometimes adults find ways to cool off through interaction with the fountain waters.
Deeper inside the park, you can find dog areas, historic monuments, walking paths, picnic tables, and playgrounds. While it’s a lovely green area in NYC, the park is better known for its cultural activities. It is not uncommon to see chess players or political demonstrations there.
5. Prospect Park, one of the best parks in Brooklyn, New York
Prospect Park is another popular location to visit in Brooklynsince it’s near Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The park itself has been declared a New York Scenic Landmark and belongs to the National Register of Historic Places.
The renowned city of New York is well known for its impressive collection of museums, but what you may not realize is that there are several free museums in New York City available. So, if you’re looking for free activities to participate in NYC, consider spending a day at one of these institutions.
Furthermore, the Ravine section contains old-growth forests and Lookout Hill with a particularly attractive natural beauty if you visit NYC during autumn. Some other gems in Prospect Park include the Binnen waterfall, Prospect Lake, and a series of arched footbridges. There are also several historic structures like Litchfield Villa, the Lullwater Boathouse, and the Parade Ground.
In addition, this place is an even better spot than Riverside Park for observing various bird species. Nearly 300 types of birds have been recorded here, including green herons, great horned owls, yellow warblers, and red-tailed hawks. Of course, there are other recreational activities available at the park, and visitors can find basketball courts, fields for baseball and soccer, a Tennis Center, and the LeFrak Center, where ice skating or boating on the water is possible.
As is evident, there is plenty to see here, so taking into account this guided tour, which will bring you to some hidden locations in the park as well as the Long Meadow, the Ravine, and other scenic spots.
6. The High Line, a free park in New York City you’ll love
The High Line is an elevated NYC park that extends from Chelsea’s Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards. It’s one of the most unique parks in the city, and while it’s untraditional, it still offers lots of cool features.
The High Line was formerly a railway that connected the city’s factories and warehouses. Today, it’s a reinvented public park, and wandering all 1.4 miles of it is one of the best free activities in NYC. In addition to appreciating the horticultural gardens, you can see iconic landmarks in the distance, such as the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and Chelsea Market.
Throughout the High Line`s developmental process, landscape architects and designers intentionally opted for meadow plants, shrubs, trees, and perennials to line the elevated pathway. The selection of flowers and flora were arranged to appear as if overtaking the route. This does not mean traversing the High Line is difficult; rather, it presents a serene spot to stroll through. Additionally, there are several scenic overlooks and resting areas situated along the High Line, as well as a children`s play section.
Another appealing aspect of this extensive New York City public greenspace is that it allows one to travel from one section of Manhattan to another while appreciating commissioned artistic works. In addition to the art galleries and stores beneath the park, one can also see The Vessel, an avant-garde observation deck with panoramic views over Hudson Yards.
To learn more about the High Line and the surrounding neighborhood, I suggest checking out this walking tour, which is covered under the New York Pass.
7. Bryant Park, a pretty NYC park to visit as a couple
Bryant Park, also known as Manhattan’s central gathering spot, is a lovely NYC park situated along Fifth Avenue. Specifically, it’s located next to the New York Public Library, which is also worth a visit.
This green area in NYC offers a refreshing oasis among the other attractions located in Midtown Manhattan surrounding it. The focal point of Bryant Park is its expansive, beautifully manicured lawn. It’s the perfect spot for picnics and, during summer, the location for community Movie Nights.
This spacious greenery area also includes exquisite yards throughout the park and differing public artistic pieces. Among the memorials and sculptures present are likenesses of previous Mexican president Benito Juárez, author Wolfgang von Goethe, and poet Gertrude Stein. There is also an striking fountain that collects thousands of dollars in coins annually, usually from numerous foreign currencies.
While wandering through the grounds, you may hear the tinkling French music of Le CarousellMagique, an ornate merry-go-round in the park. Also, if you visit NYC at Christmas, you’ll see Bryant Park transform into the Winter Village. It’s a main holiday attraction in the city featuring an ice skating rink, a Christmas market, food stalls, and a community Christmas tree.
8. Battery Park, another popular NYC park you can’t miss
Battery Park, also called The Battery, is another massive park in Manhattan, New York that you must visit.
If you’re wondering about the origin of the name The Battery, that’s a fair inquiry! The park was originally where several artillery batteries, which protected the developing 17th-century settlement behind it, were positioned. Later, that military fortress became Castle Clinton, which processed immigrants even before Ellis Island. Today, you can see remnants of Castle Clinton and the batteries as well as a national monument commemorating the site.
Other notable attractions located at Battery Park feature Monument Walk, the Hope Garden, the SeaGlass Carousel, and the Bosque Fountain. Additionally, The Battery overlooks New York Harbor, making it a scenic waterfront park in NYC that should not be missed.
This location contains woodlands, an urban farm, and a main lawn, in addition to a ferry terminal where you can catch a ride to Staten Island or participate in a Statue of Liberty tour similar to this one. Even if you come here for the ferry, you’ll likely end up remaining in the park since it`s such a pleasant place.
9. Union Square Park, a beautiful park in New York City with lots to do
Union Square Park is one of the most renowned parks in NYC, representing the intersection, or union, of Broadway, 4th Avenue, and 14th Street. It’s also a convenient midpoint between several Manhattan neighborhoods, such as Greenwich Village, the Flatiron District, and the Bowery.
A distinguishing feature of this notable Manhattan greenspace is its public art collection. Ranging from sculptures to historic monuments displayed openly, it delivers a brief historic lesson. Among the prominent figures commemorated are Marquis de Lafayette, Abraham Lincoln, and Mahatma Gandhi. For contemporary creations, observe the digital display installation above the Union Square East stores, a sizable digital timepiece titled Metronome.
Moreover, the park has two playgrounds, a dog run, and a multi-level plaza that serves as a popular gathering place for protests and political demonstrations. Also, many chess players have migrated from Washington Square Park to Union Square, so it’s not unusual to see them setting up their games on overturned crates or boxes.
Perhaps the best part about this park is the Union Square Greenmarket, a yearly farmers market. It`s one of the finest places in the city to obtain fresh, local produce, though if you`re hungry, surrounding Union Square are some of the most elegant restaurants in New York City.
10. Domino Park, one of the best NYC parks in Brooklyn
Domino Park is a recently constructed park in Brooklyn, New York that is quickly gaining popularity among the local community. Spread over five acres along the East River, the park offers lovely views of the waterfront and the imposing Williamsburg Bridge, one of the most important bridges in NYC.
Another attribute is the Domino Sugar Refinery, which is characterized by its massive syrup gathering storage tanks, and explains the name Domino Park. Timber and materials from the original refinery were recovered during the park’s development stage and reused in areas like the children’s play area and the fountain steps.
The Domino Park Fountain serves as the hub of the park and is surrounded by wooden steps where people can often be seen relaxing and socializing. The fountain, which features 88 customizable water jets, also doubles as a venue for community events.
Interestingly, the park was designed by the same architect who worked on the High Line, and Domino Park also incorporates an elevated walkway allowing perspectives of the East River, the Williamsburg Bridge, and the skyline. Additional amenities in this beautifully designed NY recreational area include a dog run, volleyball and bocce courts, an athletics field, and the delectable Tacocina taco stand.
11. Hudson River Park, the best New York City park to visit with kids
A unique metropolitan park in New York City that you certainly should visit is Hudson River Park. It’s a great place to go with kids, companions, or even alone if you want to enjoy some fresh air, waterfront views, and an assortment of activities.
Hudson River Park is a lengthy, narrow grassland zone located in NYC extending from Tribeca to Chelsea`s Meatpacking District, one of the city`s trendsetting neighborhoods. The waterside urban greenspace forms part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway while spanning 550 acres alongside the Hudson River, making it the second most expansive park in the borough. Simply walking the full length of the park will lead one past One WTC, Greenwich Village, Hudson Yards, and multiple other areas. Furthermore, the park connects to Riverside and Battery Park.
Within Hudson River Park, you’ll find different conveniences and recreational facilities such as walking and cycling paths, tennis and basketball courts, beach volleyball, soccer fields, batting cages, and a skatepark. There is likewise a dog run for pet owners and a playground for the youngsters. Little Island, an alternate excellent region to go in NYC with children, is additionally part of the park.
At Pier 84, you can discover free rowing and kayaking at the Village Community Boathouse, while the Chelsea Pier Sports and Entertainment Complex offers all sorts of sports and actions.
12. Astoria Park, the best NYC park in Queens
Astoria Park is one of the best parks in Queens, so if you find yourself in this borough, be sure to check out this popular attraction in Astoria.
The park is renowned for its pool, Astoria Pool and Bathhouse, which hosted the U.S. team’s Olympic Trials in 1936, 1952, and 1964. Today, entry to the pool is free, making it an excellent spot to cool down from summer heat.
There is another pool at the Astoria Play Center, a large rec center providing various sports facilities. Outdoors, you can play sports like basketball bocce, and soccer. Moreover, the park’s tennis area, which is partly beneath the Triborough Bridge, is an impressive space housing 14 courts and restrooms.
On any given day, the park attracts families who enjoy the park’s playground, skaters who meet up at the Astoria skatepark, and runners getting their laps in around the soccer field’s track. So, if you’re a fitness enthusiast, Astoria Park is a great addition to this list of NYC parks!
13. Pelham Bay Park, the most amazing park in The Bronx, NY
One of the advantages of renting a sailboat while visiting Tenerife is having an improved chance to spot whales and dolphins passing by. Since these boats can be steered without a motor, sea mammals are less likely to be startled away from the area.
Spread across 2,700 acres, Pelham Bay is three times the size of Central Park and dates back to 1888. Its diverse geographical landscapes and habitats include lagoons, woods, marshes, forests, meadows, and bays. This results in it being a favored spot for nature enthusiasts and bird-watchers, who can notice species like black-capped chickadees, willow flycatchers, loons, and ospreys.
As the largest park in New York City, Pelham Bay offers enough activities to last an entire day. If you enjoy sports, you can play baseball, football, basketball, bocce, or tennis. There are also two golf courses, an equestrian center, and a running track. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s nature trails, sanctuaries, and intriguing geological formations like Glover`s Rock and Split Rock.
If wanting to focus on the park’s highlights, check out Orchard Beach, one of NYC’s best beaches, and Turtle Cove, a small freshwater cove with a mini-golf course. I also recommend visiting the Bronx VictoryColumn, a beautiful monument with a 70-foot statue of the goddess of victory, Nike.
14. Flushing Meadows – Corona Park, another park in Queens you should see
Visiting Flushing Meadows – Corona Park is arguably one of the best things to do in Queens. It was established for the 1939 New York World’s Fair, which it also hosted in 1964. The park became desolate after the fair, but renewal efforts throughout the 1990s and 2000s have restored it, and you can still see some of the original layout, like the Boathouse and Queens Museum.
Also known as Flushing Meadows, it’s the fourth-largest park in NYC and is home to some of the city’s most famed landmarks. Perhaps the most iconic structure in the park is the Unisphere, a steel globe measuring 140 feet tall and 120 feet wide. Commissioned for the 1964 World’s Fair, it represents that year’s theme of “Peace Through Understanding”.
Several other notable places in the park include Citi Field, a baseball stadium; Queens Botanical Garden, a location focused on plant life; the New York Hall of Science, a facility dedicated to scientific exploration; the Flushing Meadows Carousel, an amusement ride; and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, a facility for playing tennis. If you want to spend time amidst nature, take a stroll through the park`s trails and visit Meadow Lake or Willow Lake, both home to various fish species such as American eels, largemouth bass, and northern snakeheads.
15. Van Cortlandt Park, a relaxing NYC park in The Bronx
Finally, the lovely Van Cortlandt Park located in the Bronx, NY offers an ideal place to escape from the city noises for a while. This park is also perfectly suitable for individuals seeking to engage in sports, outdoor activities, or go on a nature hike or walk.
While many NYC parks also offer amenities for baseball, basketball, soccer, and tennis, Van Cortlandt has additional spaces for cricket, football, lacrosse, and rugby. It also has playgrounds, golf courses, running paths, and stables with horseback riding trails.
Visitors to the park during the summer have free options like the public pool or hiking paths like the prominent Putnam Trail or the Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway. When walking through the park`s woodlands and ancient forests, look out for flora like beech, hickory, and red maple trees, as well as fauna including bats, coyotes, groundhogs, great horned owls, gypsy moths, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys.
If you enjoy fishing, Van Cortlandt Lake contains bluegill, carp, yellow perch, and several other fish types as well as snapping turtles. Additionally, if you appreciate history, check out the Van Cortlandt House Museum, the oldest structure still existing in the Bronx, and Memorial Grove, which honors those who served in World War II and the Korean War.
With that, you have 15 awesome NYC parks that you can visit during your next trip! To help you keep track of all these places, here is a map you can download and keep on your phone.
Of course, if you have any questions regarding this listing of notable NYC greenspaces, or you’d like to contribute your preferred outdoor area, please feel free to share your thoughts. I will respond as soon as possible. Enjoy your trip!
