Anna Maria Richards
Did you know that a record number of 265.5 million people visited New York in 2019? These tourists spent about $73.6 billion during their stay and boosted New York’s economy by $117.6 billion.
New York invests millions of dollars into promoting its tourism and popular destinations. With 11 different regions to visit throughout the state, New York has a lot to offer.
If you’re visiting New York and are interested in seeing the public parks in New York City, this guide will give you a rundown of the best places to visit. Keep reading to learn more.
1. There’s Nothing Like Central Park
Located in the center of Manhattan, this park is one of the most famous in the state. You can’t leave NYC without spending a day here. It’s a little slice of greenery heaven in an otherwise busy city landscape.
This park has meadows where you’ll find families and groups of friends having picnics and enjoying the afternoon sun. You’ll also find fountains and lakes here if you want to enjoy a tranquil and beautiful view.
2. Brooklyn’s Prospect Park
Next on the list of parks in New York City is Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. This park was created by the same designers who made Central Park. While you can see some similarities between them, many things make Prospect Park unique.
This park is a great place for runners because of its many clear paths. It has lots of playgrounds for the kids, and baseball fields for the avid fan and player.
You can spend the day fishing or horseback riding here too.
3. The Brooklyn Bridge Park
Another great park to visit in the same borough is Brooklyn Bridge Park. This park is different than the others on this list but its uniqueness is what attracts so many visitors each year.
The promenade here provides a great view of the city for an afternoon or evening stroll. This park also holds the famous Jane’s Carousel, a restored merry-go-round that kids love.
There are also many different sports fields, playgrounds, and even a skating rink in the vicinity.
4. See the Hudson River at Riverside Park
The list of best parks in New York City can’t continue without including Riverside Park. This park has some of the most breathtaking views of the Hudson River.
The park includes beautiful historic buildings that are a great way to teach your children about important events in history. It also has a great array of playgrounds for endless fun with your family.
5. Have a Fun Day at the Bronx Zoo
While the Bronx Zoo might not be the first place you think of when searching for a park to spend the day, this is a great option for check out when you visit New York City.
It’s a wonderful place to learn about the diverse animal world and how it’s an important part of the natural world. The different species of animals at the Bronx Zoo are kept in areas that mimic their natural habits.
This is a great way to help preserve those species that are in danger of extinction while learning about them too.
If you’re renting a car while visiting NYC and are driving yourself around, you should consider using the best parking app so you can find parking spots that make visiting different parks around the city easy.
6. Head to Bryant Park After Visiting the Library
Other public parks in New York City that you should visit include Bryant Park. If you want to spend some time visiting the famous New York Public Library, you can head to Bryant Park afterward.
It’s a great place to head to a movie night in the summer. In the winter it turns into a beautiful ice skating rink and becomes a host to an array of Christmas shops.
7. There’s Great History at Washington Square Park
You can’t miss the iconic arch at Washington Square Park. Located in Greenwich Village it’s known for being the center of creative movements.
It was a central location for both the Beatnik and hippie communities. It’s still considered a cultural landscape where you’ll find musicians practicing their instruments. It’s also known as being the place for chess fans to play their game with fellow fans.
8. The High Line Is a Favorite
Other popular parks in NYC include The High Line. The High Line has a unique origin story. The once railway line was turned into a walking path over a decade ago.
When visiting this park you’ll find an assortment of wild plants and get to enjoy beautiful artwork that’s displayed throughout the park as well. The park also hangs 30 ft above the ground and that in itself is a unique experience.
People enjoy coming here to see the city skyline and watch the sunrise or sunset.
9. Visit Flushing Meadows Corona Park
The Flushing Meadows Corona Park stands out because of the Unisphere at its center. This globe created out of steel was first constructed for the 1964 World’s Fair.
This park hosts a variety of activities, every member of your family will find something they love to do here. You can visit the New York Hall of Science or Arthur Ashe Stadium while there.
The park has an area for barbecuing and a skate park too.
10. Hike Through Inward Hill Park
Last but certainly not least on this list of NYC public parks is the Inward Hill Park. If you’re a fan of hiking but haven’t found the place for it in NYC, Inward Hill Park is a perfect choice. Biking through the park as you look out at the Hudson River is another favorite activity.
This is also a great place to take your kids or dogs. There are some great dog parks here and playgrounds for the kids as well.
Public Parks in New York City You Should Check Out
If you’re visiting or you’re a permanent resident, this list of public parks in New York City should give you plenty to do and see when you feel the need to explore outdoors. Central Park is a staple but The High Line offers a unique experience in the city.
Make sure to check out some of the other blogs on our site if you found this one useful.
