The best parks in NYC: Explore the city’s green spaces

New York City is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic parks in the world. Whether you're looking for a quiet green space to relax, scenic waterfront views, or unique urban landscapes, NYC’s parks offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best parks in the city and surrounding areas.

The High Line, Manhattan

After grabbing a bite at the Chelsea Market—a food lover’s paradise with incredible variety—go for a stroll on the High Line, an elevated park built on a historic train line.

With stunning views of the Hudson River and art installations, it’s a unique urban oasis. Just a three-minute walk away, The Standard, High Line, offers a bird’s eye view of the park from its roof terrace with hot tub access.

Central Park, Manhattan

Central Park—the most famous park in New York—spans 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan. It features the picturesque Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, Strawberry Fields, and countless trails, lakes, and picnic spots. If you’re traveling with kids or friends, hop in a row boat to explore the park.

Prospect Park, Brooklyn

Designed by the same team behind Central Park, Prospect Park offers rolling meadows, dense forests, and a beautiful lake perfect for paddle boating. It’s a major NYC green space and a favorite among Brooklyn locals.

Bryant Park, Manhattan

Located behind the New York Public Library, Bryant Park is an urban oasis with seasonal events like ice skating in the winter and movie nights in the summer. It also has plenty of seating and free public games like chess and table tennis. As one of the most famous parks in NYC, it’s a lively spot for visitors and locals alike. Relax and unwind in a luxurious room at the Bryant Park Hotel, overlooking the lush greenery and cityscape below.

Washington Square Park 

Explore NYC's vibrant Washington Square Park in the heart of Greenwich Village. Often bustling with NYU students and street performers, this iconic park is home to the Washington Arch and ample green space to relax and people watch. The park's proximity to tons of cafes and restaurants makes it a perfect stop during your city adventure.

McCarren Park 

Head over to Brooklyn's McCarren Park. McCarren Park is not only a popular hangout spot for locals but also hosts events and activities all year. Known for its large grassy fields, running track, and public pool, it’s an ideal place for both relaxation and fun. After a day at the park, enjoy a meal at one of the nearby Williamsburg eateries, which range from trendy brunch spots to cozy dinner restaurants.

Gantry Plaza State Park 

Don't miss out on Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City, Queens. With unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline over the East River, this park has beautiful gardens, piers, and playgrounds, making it a great destination for families and photographers alike. Its pathways are perfect for a stroll or bike ride right along the waterfront.

Fort Greene Park 

For a touch of history, visit Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn. This historical park—designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who also designed Central Park and Prospect Park—features war memorials and the Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument. Fort Greene Park is a haven for locals looking for a quiet yet engaging green space with deep historical roots.

Battery Park 

If you're looking for a more tranquil escape, visit Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan. Overlooking the New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty, this park offers beautiful gardens, memorials, and waterfront views. It’s the perfect spot for a walk or a peaceful moment along the water, just steps away from the bustling Financial District.

No matter where you go in NYC, you're never far from a green space that offers a break from the urban hustle. Each park has its own unique charm and attractions, ensuring something for everyone in the city that never sleeps.

If you’re picking up a rental car to explore beyond Manhattan, these parks are great for day trips.

Pelham Bay Park, The Bronx

NYC’s largest park is home to hiking trails, golf courses, and the stunning Orchard Beach. Pelham Bay Park is a great example of natural features in New York.

Van Cortlandt Park, The Bronx

A paradise for hikers and runners, Van Cortlandt Park has extensive trails, woodlands, and a historic house museum. It’s the perfect NYC green space for those who love the outdoors.

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Queens

A great spot for birdwatching and nature walks, this park offers scenic wetlands and a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Plus, if you have a layover or aren’t in town long, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Park is close to JFK Airport.

Staten Island Greenbelt, Staten Island

Perfect for nature lovers, this vast area includes hiking trails, woodlands, and the Staten Island Greenbelt Nature Center. Staten Island Greenbelt Park has some of the most beautiful natural features in New York.

If you’re looking to stay in NYC’s greenest neighborhoods, consider Brooklyn’s Prospect Park area, the Upper West Side near Central Park, or Riverdale in the Bronx. These areas are some of the most lush, tree-lined neighborhoods in the city. 

Why not explore like a local? Grab some coffee and a bagel to enjoy while exploring the best parks in the city.