The Big Apple might be known for its skyscrapers, but it also has a variety of parks worth exploring. Musement shares 10 of the best parks in New York you should visit.
Known as the concrete jungle, New York also has its fair share of green spaces to relax and escape the hustle and bustle. There are so many things to do in New York and different ways to see the city, but exploring its parks should be at the top of your list.
Below, Musement shares 10 of the best parks in New York City.
1. Little Island
New York’s newest park seems to be floating in the Hudson River, that’s because it is. Built on 132 pot-shaped concrete piles that resemble tulips, Little Island is one of the best parks in New York. Featuring over 350 species of flowers, a 685-seat amphitheater, and phenomenal views of New York City, it is the perfect place to relax and take in the sights of New York. Make your way to one of the two hills within the park to catch gorgeous panoramic views, including the Freedom Tower. A playground, educational programs, and the Art Cart make it the perfect place to spend a day with the kids.
2. Central Park
It’s a no-brainer as to why Central Park made the list, it’s truly iconic. By far the most famous park in New York, one could spend more than a day exploring this urban oasis. The 840-acre park has been the plot in many books, appeared in numerous https://blog.musement.com/us/best-films-set-in-new-york/movies, and is a park lover’s dream. Pay a visit to the park’s zoo, otherwise, you can admire the numerous animals roaming through the park’s grounds. New York’s most popular attraction has so much to discover. Rent a bike to cruise around or take part in a walking tour to fully see this magical place including the John Lennon Strawberry Fields, numerous ponds, and ice-skating rinks.
3. Prospect Park
The ideal park to spend a weekend afternoon. Pack a picnic or indulge in a barbecue at Longmeadow or Nethermead meadow. Located between Prospect Heights and Flatbush neighborhoods in Brooklyn, Prospect Park was designed by the same architect as Central Park. Fun activities at Prospect Park including roller skating at Wollman Rink, a stop at the park’s zoo, and a ride on the carousel. Wander through the park’s 520 acres along the walking paths or explore off the beaten path on your own. Be sure to check out Drummers Grove during the spring and summer for some good tunes or you can pack your sleds when there’s a fresh blanket of snow and head to the hills.
4. Bryant Park
Known for hosting tons of free entertainment during the summer months, Bryant Park attracts more than 12 million visitors each year. With plenty of outdoor dining and free WiFi, you can catch some rays as you work from this gem. Bryant Park is situated in the heart of Manhattan, giving the city a touch of green from its iconic skyscrapers. During the winter, Bryant Park’s Winter Village is a huge hit when the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering tons of shops and free ice skating.
5. Flushing Meadows Park
Home to the iconic Unisphere created for the 1964 World’s Fair, Flushing Meadows Park has made its way into numerous television shows and movies. The fourth-largest park in New York City is home to the New York Hall of Science, a boating lake and a skate park. Looking for some sports entertainment? Look no further. Citi Field, the home stadium for the New York Mets as well as two state-of-the-art tennis stadiums and a pitch-and-putt golf course are also found within the park. While you’re here, a walk over to the Queens Botanical Garden is a must.
6. Washington Square Park
The nearly 10-acre park in Greenwich Village isn’t your typical park with forest-like trees and lakes to fish in. However, that doesn’t mean it still isn’t one of the best parks in New York. Filled with impressive architecture and art, Washington Square Park is a staple to the Big Apple. The iconic Washington Arch, a replica of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, is a popular spot among skateboarders to practice their tricks. The nearby fountain attracts hundreds of children who go for a quick swim to refresh in the summer. Chess enthusiasts can be found in the corner of the park ready to test their skills.
7. The High Line
Built on an old, elevated rail line from the 1920s, the High Line has become one of the most unique parks in the city. Stretching across a two-mile span, the park offers beautiful cityscape views in the middle of Manhattan. Besides the great views, visitors will come encounter nature, art, and design. The park is open all year round but it’s best to pay a visit during the summer to avoid the frigid New York temperature.
8. The Battery
Formerly known as Battery Park, The Battery is situated in the Financial District. The park is extremely kid-friendly with attractions like the SeaGlass Carousel, a children’s favorite, the Castle Clinton, and the newest addition, PlayScape. The new area features a jungle-gym style playhouse, and a puppet theater. Besides the fun for the kids, a plethora of historical monuments and memorials can be found on the grounds. Overlooking the New York Harbor, the park is a great access point to the ferry which will take you across to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
9. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Are you a sucker for jaw dropping city skyline views? If so, you need to check out the Brooklyn Bridge Park. Once you get done walking or renting a bike to get across the bridge, head to one of the best parks in New York. The idyllic spot for views of the Brooklyn Bridge, outdoor fitness classes, and even kayaking. If you want to dip your toes in the sand, head to Pier 4. Make your way to the promenade and stick around for a sunset, you won’t want to miss it!
10. Riverside Park
Runners and bikers make their way to Riverside Park for the dazzling views as they get their exercise in. Hugging the Hudson, the park stretches 4 miles long from 72nd Street to 158th Street. What was once just a thought back in 1870, has become the best waterfront park in New York. Two monuments, Grant’s Tomb and Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Monument, draw crowds for those passing by. Numerous playgrounds and sports fields are scattered throughout the park so you’ll never get bored.