Not only is NYC home to some of the best playgrounds in the country (yes, we said it), our playgrounds are extra special because they are always hopping. (Have you seen those sad swing sets in the suburbs?) Even better is that no matter your kid’s age or style of play, there’s an NYC playground for them! With that in mind, we’ve rounded up all of our intel on the best NYC parks and playground for kids—Manhattan playgrounds, Brooklyn playgrounds, playgrounds for toddlers, shady playgrounds and more. Pack up some water, chalk and snacks and go play!
Our Favorite Manhattan Playgrounds
From the tops in Central Park Playgrounds, to treasures in Battery Park, Hudson River Park, Washington Square, Union Square, Gramercy Park and beyond, here's where to play uptown, downtown and all over town.
The Best of Brooklyn Playgrounds
From Prospect Park to Brooklyn Bridge Park to Domino Park in Williamsburg, there are some impressive playgrounds in the borough of Brooklyn. But they're not all the same, by any means—check out playgrounds with giant structures to climb, shady spots to cool down, and spots for tots new to the playground scene.
Click here to se our picks for the best playgrounds in Brooklyn!
For the Coolest NYC Playgrounds with Shade
Summer is in full swing, and sooner or later you're going to need a place to cool down. A shady playground is a welcome relief, and we've found NYC playgrounds with shade all over town.
Click here for our favorite NYC playgrounds with shade here!
NYC Playgrounds for Toddlers
If you're just beginning to get the walking thing down, playing with the big kids can be a little rough. That's where a "Tot Lot", or a playground just for toddlers comes in. (Bonus: many are in shady areas, too.)
Pack up the diaper bag and head to one of our favorite playgrounds for toddlers here!
NYC Playgrounds with Water
If you really need to cool down, a splash pad, or playground with a water feature is in order.
Click here for our favorite NYC playgrounds where kids can get wet and wild!
—Mimi O’Connor
feature image: Central Park Conservancy
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