Prospect Park New York City
Brooklyn's sprawling green oasis, designed by Olmsted & Vaux, offering nature, recreation, and vibrant weekend markets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Prospect Park New York City
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brooklyn's sprawling green oasis, designed by Olmsted & Vaux, offering nature, recreation, and vibrant weekend markets.
"Often called Brooklyn's 'crown jewel,' it's a more relaxed, naturalistic escape than its Manhattan counterpart."
🚲 Bike the Loop
Rent a city bike and explore the park's 3-mile loop for a great overview.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring your own food and drinks for a delightful picnic on the lawn.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Audubon Center at the Boathouse
Near the Lullwater
Discover local wildlife and enjoy scenic views of the lake and surrounding nature. A peaceful escape within the city.
Prospect Park Zoo
Near the Willink Entrance
A family-friendly attraction with diverse animals, perfect for a fun-filled afternoon with kids.
LeFrak Center at Lakeside
Near the Well House Drive
Enjoy ice skating in winter and roller skating or pedal boating in warmer months. A hub for active fun.
Grand Army Plaza
Northern Entrance
Home to a bustling Saturday farmers market and a gateway to the park's northern attractions.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Park Perks & Provisions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike the Loop
Rent a city bike and explore the park's 3-mile loop for a great overview.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring your own food and drinks for a delightful picnic on the lawn.
🍻 BYOB Vibes
If drinking, get a 21+ wristband from security.
🛍️ Market Finds
Don't miss the Saturday farmers market at Grand Army Plaza.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike the Loop
Rent a city bike and explore the park's 3-mile loop for a great overview.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring your own food and drinks for a delightful picnic on the lawn.
🍻 BYOB Vibes
If drinking, get a 21+ wristband from security.
🛍️ Market Finds
Don't miss the Saturday farmers market at Grand Army Plaza.
🍔 Smorgasburg Sundays
Indulge in diverse food truck offerings every Sunday.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Prospect Park for its natural beauty, spaciousness, and diverse activities, often comparing it favorably to Central Park for its more relaxed atmosphere. Many highlight the weekend food markets and family-friendly attractions as major draws. Some find the park can get very crowded on peak days, and navigating its size can be a minor challenge for first-time visitors.
"Absolutely love prospect park! It’s so beautiful and large. It has many pleasant areas to sit and watch people and animals. It’s super peaceful and serene. Wonderful bike and hiking trails. A must for natives and tourists alike:)"
Christine Elliott
"Came to see the movies in the Park, Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Weather was amazing! They give you these like lawn chairs but it’s on the ground, you can keep them, easy to carry. Free popcorn, seltzer water and T-Shirts. Very nice for the kids to run around while getting some fresh air. Sound was good to the speaker tower placement and no bad seats. Movie stared around 7:40, waiting for the sun to go down. Everyone was peaceful and cleaned up behind themselves after the movie was over. Did I mention, it was free? Can’t go wrong. Movie ended about 9:45 and walking back through the park, good lighting. No worries but again, I wasn’t alone. Good evening."
Debra Clark
"Prospect Park is a true escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City, nestled right in the center of Brooklyn. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, Central Park, Prospect Park offers a similarly stunning natural retreat—but with a fraction of the crowds. That’s what makes it so special.
The park is immaculately clean, filled with expansive green spaces, shaded areas that offer a break from the summer heat, and beautifully maintained walking paths. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful solo walk, a family picnic, or a fun day with children, this park has something for everyone.
There are several playgrounds scattered throughout the park, making it an ideal destination for families with young kids. One of the highlights is the Prospect Park Zoo, a charming, small zoo with a surprisingly wide variety of animals. Tickets are reasonably priced—around $11 for adults—and the experience is well worth it.
Another favorite among children is the carousel, which brings old-school joy and nostalgia. A ride costs only $3, and the smiles on the children’s faces are priceless.
What truly sets Prospect Park apart is its peaceful atmosphere. You won’t find the overwhelming crowds or endless streams of tourists here. Instead, you’ll find space to breathe, relax, and enjoy nature at your own pace.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, I highly recommend setting aside a few hours to explore this Brooklyn treasure. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and maybe even a little more in love with New York City."
Anna Toptalina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the Q or B train to the Prospect Park station, or the F or G train to the Fort Hamilton Parkway station. Many visitors also find it convenient to take the subway to Grand Army Plaza.
Street parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. It's often easier to use public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Yes, Prospect Park is very bike-friendly with dedicated paths and a scenic loop. You can also rent Citi Bikes near the park entrances.
The best stop depends on where you want to enter. Lincoln Road (Q/B) is great for the Lakeside area, and Grand Army Plaza (2/3) is ideal for the northern part of the park.
Several bus lines serve Prospect Park, including the B16, B41, B67, and B68, with stops conveniently located around the park's perimeter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Prospect Park is a public park and is free to enter and explore.
Most events held in Prospect Park are free, but some special ticketed events may occur. Check the official NYC Parks website for event details.
Prospect Park is open daily from 6 AM to 9 PM.
Yes, there is an admission fee for the Prospect Park Zoo. Check their official website for current pricing and hours.
Dogs are welcome in Prospect Park but must be leashed at all times, except in designated off-leash areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Audubon Center at the Boathouse, the Prospect Park Zoo, the LeFrak Center at Lakeside, and the beautiful Long Meadow for picnics. +1
Absolutely! Prospect Park has miles of walking trails, including scenic routes around the lake and through wooded areas.
You can bike, run, picnic, visit the zoo, enjoy boating on the lake, ice skate in winter, and attend various events.
Prospect Park is fantastic for families, with the zoo, playgrounds, and plenty of open space for kids to play.
While both were designed by Olmsted and Vaux, Prospect Park is often considered less crowded and more of a local's park, offering a more relaxed vibe.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Yes, there are various food vendors and kiosks throughout the park, especially near popular attractions.
Smorgasburg is a large outdoor food market held on Sundays in Prospect Park, featuring a wide array of local food vendors.
Yes, you can BBQ in designated areas. Be sure to use the provided grills and follow all safety guidelines to prevent fires.
There are many cafes near the park entrances, particularly around Grand Army Plaza and Park Slope. Lincoln Market is a highly-rated grocery store just outside the Lincoln Road subway stop.
The Long Meadow is a popular choice for picnics, offering vast open spaces. The areas around the lake also provide beautiful settings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Boathouse, the Lullwater, the Ravine, and the various bridges offer picturesque scenes. The changing seasons also provide beautiful backdrops.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer people.
The Grand Army Plaza Soldiers' and Sailors' Arch, the Boathouse, and the various architectural bridges are iconic landmarks.
Drone usage is generally restricted in NYC parks. It's best to check the NYC Parks Department regulations before flying a drone.
Autumn is stunning with its fall foliage, but spring offers blooming flowers, and summer provides lush greenery. Each season has its photographic charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or utilize the park's vendors. Weekday visits can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. The park's vastness means you can easily spend a whole day exploring without running out of things to do.
🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
Beyond the main loop, the park offers numerous unpaved trails through wooded areas, providing a more challenging and varied terrain for trail runners. The open spaces are also ideal for outdoor fitness classes or simply finding a quiet spot for yoga or stretching.
🍔 Foodies & Market Lovers
On Saturdays, the Farmers Market at Grand Army Plaza is the place to be for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet treats. If you're planning a picnic, stocking up here is highly recommended.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Masterpiece by Olmsted & Vaux
The park's layout is meticulously crafted to guide visitors through diverse environments. From the expansive Long Meadow, perfect for picnics and games, to the intricate Ravine, a man-made forest that feels remarkably wild, every area offers a unique experience. The designers skillfully integrated water features, including the Lullwater and the Lake, which are central to the park's aesthetic and recreational appeal.
Key architectural elements, such as the iconic Boathouse (now the Audubon Center) and the Grand Army Plaza Soldiers' and Sailors' Arch, add historical and visual interest. These structures are not just landmarks but integral parts of the park's narrative, reflecting the grandeur and aspirations of Brooklyn during the 19th century. Exploring these elements provides a deeper appreciation for the park's enduring legacy.
Culinary Delights at Prospect Park
Beyond Smorgasburg, visitors can enjoy more casual dining options. The LeFrak Center at Lakeside often has concessions, and there are various food carts and kiosks scattered throughout the park, offering quick bites like hot dogs, pretzels, and ice cream. For those planning a picnic, the Saturday Farmers Market at Grand Army Plaza is an excellent place to stock up on fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more.
Several Reddit users recommend bringing your own picnic to enjoy on the park's expansive lawns. This allows for a more personalized and budget-friendly dining experience. Popular choices for picnic fare include cheeses, charcuterie, sandwiches, and favorite snacks. Remember to check for designated grilling areas if you plan on a BBQ.
Capturing Prospect Park's Beauty
For iconic shots, head to Grand Army Plaza to photograph the impressive Soldiers' and Sailors' Arch. The park's numerous bridges, like the Music Island Bridge and the Ballymena Bridge, offer unique perspectives and framing opportunities. During autumn, the park transforms into a riot of color, making it a prime location for capturing vibrant fall foliage.
To avoid crowds and capture the best light, aim for early morning or late afternoon, especially during the 'golden hour.' Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for more relaxed shooting. Remember to respect the park's natural environment and any ongoing events when taking photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit