Fort Greene Park New York City
Brooklyn's oldest park, offering a serene escape with historical monuments, playgrounds, and vibrant community events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free movie nights under the stars
Fort Greene Park New York City
Best Time
Free movie nights under the stars
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brooklyn's oldest park, offering a serene escape with historical monuments, playgrounds, and vibrant community events.
"This is the most underrated park in New York City that only the locals know about."
🎯 Take the A Train for Easy Access
Hop on the A train from Times Square to the 190th Street station for a direct route to this underrated gem.
🎬 Free Thursday Movies
Catch free movie nights every Thursday in the summer! Bring a blanket and enjoy a fun evening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mysterious Underground Bunker
Beneath the Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument
Discover a hidden historical gem: an underground bunker with a fascinating past. A must-see for history buffs!
Summer Movie Nights
Central Lawn
Enjoy free outdoor movie screenings every Thursday evening during the summer. A perfect date night or family outing!
Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument
Summit of the hill
A towering obelisk commemorating American Revolutionary War prisoners. Offers panoramic views of the park and city.
Spike Lee's Annual Block Party
Central Lawn
Experience the vibrant energy of this iconic block party celebrating music, culture, and community.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds: Discover Fort Greene's Charm
Uncover Hidden History & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Take the A Train for Easy Access
Hop on the A train from Times Square to the 190th Street station for a direct route to this underrated gem.
🎬 Free Thursday Movies
Catch free movie nights every Thursday in the summer! Bring a blanket and enjoy a fun evening.
🤫 Uncover the Hidden Bunker
Look for the unassuming metal door to find a piece of history. Ask locals for directions to the underground bunker.
🏃♀️ Great for Runners
Connect to DUMBO or Manhattan via bridge runs. Explore scenic routes starting from the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Take the A Train for Easy Access
Hop on the A train from Times Square to the 190th Street station for a direct route to this underrated gem.
🎬 Free Thursday Movies
Catch free movie nights every Thursday in the summer! Bring a blanket and enjoy a fun evening.
🤫 Uncover the Hidden Bunker
Look for the unassuming metal door to find a piece of history. Ask locals for directions to the underground bunker.
🏃♀️ Great for Runners
Connect to DUMBO or Manhattan via bridge runs. Explore scenic routes starting from the park.
🎶 Experience the Block Party
Don't miss the annual block party for an unforgettable celebration of music and culture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort Greene Park for its local charm, historical significance, and vibrant community events, calling it an underrated gem compared to more crowded city parks. While some find parking challenging, the accessibility via public transport and the variety of activities, from free movie nights to historical exploration, make it a highly recommended Brooklyn destination.
"Amazing area for BK Mag & Paramount to do Movies in the Park here all summer! Came to watch 3 movies here and they were all great. You get a free chair, popcorn and water or seltzer. Screen is massive so it’s easy to get comfortable and watch from all over the open area! It can get pretty crowded if you come around 7pm."
Kim
"Hands down the best park in New York. The vibe is always amazing with friendly people, sweet dogs, and plenty of spots to relax and connect with nature. Whether you’re laying on the grass, walking around, or just people watching, it’s the perfect place to unwind. My favorite part is the tennis courts. I could chill there for hours just watching people play. It’s also a great spot for kids to hang out. Just an all around lovely place"
Yusuf Yassin
"Fun in the park!! Be ready to climb. This park has a lot of hills. I saw a movie in the park and it was so much fun. I’m not sure if it was just this movie but we got there early and we got free beach style chairs curtesy of Paramount pictures. The staff that were there were super friendly. Made a huge difference in enjoyment. It’s small but spacious hard to get lost."
L turley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Fort Greene Park is by taking the A train from Manhattan to the 190th Street station, which drops you right at the park's entrance. Other subway lines like the C, G, B, and Q also have stops within walking distance. Driving is an option, but parking can be challenging in the area.
Yes, Fort Greene Park is very accessible by public transport. Several subway lines serve the area, including the A, C, G, B, and Q trains, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan.
The 190th Street station on the A train is a direct gateway to Fort Greene Park. Other nearby stops include Lafayette Avenue (C, G) and Fulton Street (A, C, G, R, 2, 3, 4, 5), all within a short walk.
Absolutely! Runners often create loops from Fort Greene Park towards DUMBO. You can head towards the Manhattan Bridge, run across, and explore the waterfront, then find a route back.
Street parking is available around Fort Greene Park, but it can be competitive, especially on weekends and during events. Consider using public transport if possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Fort Greene Park is a public park and is completely free to enter and enjoy.
Fort Greene Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific event times may vary, so it's always good to check local listings for any scheduled activities.
Most events held in Fort Greene Park, such as the summer movie nights 
The Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument and the historical areas within Fort Greene Park are free to access.
While organized yoga classes might require booking, many people enjoy casual yoga sessions in the park's open spaces. Check local listings for specific class schedules and registration details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the historic Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument, playgrounds, tennis courts, and the beautiful tree-filled landscapes. Don't miss the hidden underground bunker!
Yes, Fort Greene Park features several playgrounds, making it a great spot for families with children to enjoy outdoor recreation.
Fort Greene Park has tennis courts available for public use. It's advisable to check for reservation policies or arrive early, as they can be popular.
The park is home to the Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument, honoring those who died in British prison ships during the Revolutionary War. It also contains remnants of Civil War-era fortifications.
Yes, Fort Greene Park offers scenic paths suitable for running and cycling. It's a popular starting point for longer runs exploring nearby neighborhoods like DUMBO.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't permanent food concessions within the park itself, you'll often find local food trucks and vendors during community events and on weekends.
The surrounding Fort Greene neighborhood is brimming with diverse dining options, from casual cafes and bakeries to upscale restaurants. Explore Dekalb Avenue and Fulton Street for plenty of choices.
Absolutely! Fort Greene Park is a perfect spot for a picnic. Bring your own food and find a shady spot on the lawn to relax and enjoy your meal.
Yes, Fort Greene Park hosts a popular Greenmarket on Saturdays, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local farmers.
Alcohol consumption is generally not permitted in New York City parks. It's best to adhere to park rules to avoid any issues.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument, the park's lush greenery, and the city skyline from the hill's summit. The historic subway station entrance is also photogenic.
Fort Greene Park offers a variety of photographic opportunities, from historical monuments and natural landscapes to vibrant community events.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in New York City parks. It's best to check the official NYC Parks Department regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
The mysterious underground bunker entrance
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience with younger children. The park's accessibility via public transport also makes it an easy outing for families living in or visiting the city.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts & Runners
Beyond running and tennis, the open green spaces are perfect for outdoor yoga, stretching, or other fitness routines. The park's accessibility via public transport makes it convenient for a quick workout before or after work.
🏛️ History Buffs
Explore the park's grounds to uncover remnants of its military history, including Civil War fortifications. Don't miss the chance to discover the intriguing underground bunker, a hidden relic that adds a layer of mystery to the park's historical narrative. Visiting during a weekday morning can offer a more contemplative experience, allowing you to fully absorb the historical atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of larger crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fort Greene Park's Rich History
Beneath the surface lies another historical secret: an underground bunker. This structure, often overlooked by casual visitors, served as a Civil War-era fortification. Its discovery adds a layer of intrigue and mystery to the park, making it a fascinating spot for history enthusiasts.
The park's historical significance extends to its role as a gathering place for community activism and cultural events, reflecting its enduring importance to Brooklyn residents. Community Events and Activities
These events are a beloved tradition, offering a relaxed and enjoyable way to spend an evening. The park also hosts a popular Greenmarket every Saturday, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts, supporting local farmers and businesses. Beyond regular programming, Fort Greene Park is known for its larger-scale events, such as the iconic Spike Lee-hosted block party, celebrating music, culture, and the spirit of Brooklyn.
These gatherings showcase the park's role as a central gathering point for the community, fostering a strong sense of local pride and connection. Whether it's a casual run, a family picnic, or a lively festival, the park consistently offers engaging activities for everyone. Running and Recreation in Fort Greene Park
In addition to running, Fort Greene Park features tennis courts that are available for public use, offering another way to stay active.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit