New York City is more than just concrete and skyscrapers. The city is home to some of the most beautiful and well-maintained parks in the world. New York City parks offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life and provide an opportunity to connect with nature. If you are a green space enthusiast and visiting New York City, you cannot miss these parks. Read on for recommendations and tips.

Parks to Visit in NYC

  1. Central Park: The most famous park in NYC, Central Park covers 843 acres and features lakes, gardens, and recreational facilities. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, cycling, or a picnic. Pro Tip: Take a romantic and iconic paddle around the lake by renting a Venetian gondola ride at Loeb Boathouse.
  2. The High Line: Running through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea neighborhoods on Manhattan’s West Side, the High Line is an elevated park built on an old rail line. The park runs 1.45 miles and offers fantastic views of the city skyline; perfect for a relaxing walk. Pro Tip: Take a Chelsea Market and High Line Tour. Grab delicious goodies at the market and check out the sights on the High Line with this awesome guided tour!
  3. Prospect Park: Prospect Park is Brooklyn’s answer to Central Park. The park covers 526 acres and features a lake, a zoo, and a botanical garden. Prospect Park is perfect for jogging, cycling, or enjoying a picnic. Pro Tip: Check out their events online before visiting. There’s always something for the whole family!
  4. Battery Park: Battery Park is located at the southern tip of Manhattan and offers fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River. The park features a promenade, gardens, and a playground. Pro Tip: If you want to catch a ferry from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, book tickets online first! And don’t forget to bring the kiddos to the one-of-a-kind Seaglass Carousel!
  5. Riverside Park: Riverside Park runs along the Hudson River and is perfect for cycling, jogging, or just relaxing. The park features playgrounds, gardens, and sports facilities. Pro Tip: Check out this map of sights to see as you make your way along the Riverside Park stroll!
  6. Brooklyn Bridge Park: Brooklyn Bridge Park is located on the East River waterfront and offers fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline. The park features a pier, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Pro Tip: Brooklyn Bridge park is home to many beaches and recreational areas. Check out the full list of places to see here!
  7. Flushing Meadows-Corona Park: Home to the Unisphere—a famous steel globe that was built for the 1964 World’s Fair—Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is located in Queens near LaGuardia Airport and features a lake, a zoo, and sports facilities. Pro Tip: This popular Queens attraction is a popular attraction for Instagrammers. Don’t forget to visit and snap a pic!
  8. Gantry Plaza State Park: Gantry Plaza State Park is located in Long Island City and offers fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline. The park features a pier, gardens, and sports facilities. Pro Tip: Dogs are welcome so make sure to bring your four-legged friend along for a walk!
  9. Van Cortlandt Park: Located in the Bronx, Van Cortlandt Park is the city’s third-largest park and features a lake, a golf course, and sports facilities. Pro Tip: If you are a golfer, this is the park for you. Van Cortlandt Park is home to two golf courses Mosholu Golf Course and Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course.
  10. Forest Park: Forest Park is located in Queens and covers 538 acres. The park features a golf course, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Pro Tip: The George Seuffert, Sr. Bandshell can accommodate thousands of people and hosts free concerts throughout the warm season.

Visiting these New York City parks offers you a green experience within this thriving metropolis, and also provides a chance to explore the diverse neighborhoods that surround them!

Thinking about moving to NYC now that you know it is more than a “concrete jungle”? Trust Gotham Mini Storage, the leader in Manhattan mini storage to help assist you with your move. Find a unit now!