Discover Underrated Parks Perfect for Family Fun This Summer
Exploring Hidden Gems: New York City's Secret Gardens and Parks
New York City is known for its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, but hidden among these urban landscapes are tranquil green spaces that offer a peaceful escape. Here, we'll take a look at some of the city's lesser-known gardens and parks, including Greenacre Park, Downing Street Playground, and the Elevated Acre.
Greenacre Park: A Midtown Oasis
Located on East 51st Street in Midtown Manhattan, Greenacre Park is a perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. This small oasis in the middle of a concrete jungle features plenty of greenery, including trees, shrubs, and flowers. The main attraction of Greenacre Park is a cascading waterfall, which provides a soothing soundtrack to your visit. Greenacre Park is open from April to December.
The Elevated Acre: Skyscraper Playground
The Elevated Acre, located in the Financial District at 55 Water Street, offers a unique experience. Access to this green space is via an outdoor escalator between two buildings. Once there, you'll find plenty of room to romp among the skyscrapers, as well as a green space for children to play. The Elevated Acre also includes bleacher-style seating for relaxation, reading, or snacking. A walk around the perimeter of the Elevated Acre offers views of New York Harbor.
Downing Street Playground: A West Village Secret
Downing Street Playground, sometimes referred to as a "secret" playground due to its hidden location, is a hidden gem in the West Village. To find it, look for the small open door behind the brick facade on the south side of the street. Inside, you'll find swings, a jungle gym, a garden, and sprinklers in the summer.
Discover More
These are just a few examples of the hidden gardens and parks that New York City has to offer. For more local destinations in the West Village, visit the provided link. If you enjoy secret or lesser-known urban natural spaces, you might also want to explore the Ford Foundation Garden in Midtown Manhattan, Jefferson Market Garden in the West Village, 6BC Botanical Garden in the East Village, Brooklyn Botanic Garden in Prospect Heights, and Untermyer Gardens in Yonkers, just outside NYC. These gardens and parks provide quiet, green sanctuaries in or near the city, often tucked away from the typical crowded tourist spots.
Enjoying a peaceful lifestyle in the midst of urban bustle, one can discover the Ford Foundation Garden, a hidden gem in Midtown Manhattan that offers a serene haven amidst the towering skyscrapers. This home-and-garden spot provides an excellent opportunity for relaxation and reflection, much like the tranquil Greenacre Park and the small, secretive Downing Street Playground in the West Village.
