New York City hotels, new york city motels, new york city restaurants, best in each category, nightlife, history, statisitics, facts, maps and more from insiders, for insiders and visitors.


Beautiful Parks in New York City

Discover the best psrks in new york city offering an array of activities.

New York City Parks

Explore green escapes across the five boroughs — from iconic Central Park to hidden neighborhood gardens.

Despite its fast pace and towering skyline, New York City offers more than 30,000 acres of parks and public green space. Whether you're looking to picnic, bike, play sports, birdwatch, or simply relax, the city's parks provide peaceful retreats and vibrant community hubs.

Ad Placeholder (Responsive)

Central Park (Manhattan)

The most famous park in the city, Central Park stretches over 840 acres in the heart of Manhattan. Walk the trails, row across the lake, visit the Central Park Zoo, or relax at the Great Lawn. It’s a favorite for joggers, musicians, and tourists alike.

Prospect Park (Brooklyn)

Designed by the same minds behind Central Park, Prospect Park is Brooklyn’s natural heart. It features a boathouse, zoo, lake, bandshell, and forested trails. Popular events include outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets.

Flushing Meadows–Corona Park (Queens)

Home to the US Open Tennis Championships, the Queens Museum, and the iconic Unisphere, this park is one of NYC’s largest. It offers sports fields, playgrounds, and paths near historic pavilions from the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs.

Battery Park (Manhattan)

Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park offers panoramic harbor views, ferry access to the Statue of Liberty, memorials, and seasonal gardens. It's an excellent place to start a downtown adventure.

Riverside Park (Upper West Side)

This narrow park runs along the Hudson River with tennis courts, bike paths, monuments, and benches with cityscape views. Riverside Park is a favorite for quiet sunsets and morning jogs.

Other Great NYC Parks

  • Bryant Park – Midtown oasis with free events, carousel, reading room, and winter skating rink.
  • The High Line – An elevated linear park with gardens, public art, and Hudson views.
  • Washington Square Park – Famous for its arch, piano players, and community feel.
  • Governors Island – Seasonal island park with art installations, bikes, hammocks, and ferry access.
  • Inwood Hill Park – The last natural forest in Manhattan, with hiking and Native American history.

Park Activities

  • Jogging, walking, and biking trails
  • Kayaking and paddle boating (Central Park, Prospect Park, Hudson River)
  • Free movie nights and summer concerts
  • Birdwatching and nature programs
  • Historic tours and public art

Resources for Park Visitors

Related Pages

Green Space in the Concrete Jungle

NYC’s parks are more than lawns and trees — they’re gathering spaces, performance venues, playgrounds, and living history. Whether you’re a visitor or a lifelong New Yorker, there’s always a new green corner to explore. Grab a bench, take a walk, and enjoy the quieter side of the city that never sleeps.