Prospect Park
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I've only been through this Brooklyn park while running in the Brooklyn Half Marathon. There are several MTA subway station that you can take to get here. I must say that the park was very beautiful during mid to late May! I definitely wouldn't mind coming back here to check out the park at a much slower pace.
Obsessed. Such a versatile park with something for everyone, from an open field, to biking/ jogging paths, to more secluded areas. I can get lost here and still feel at home.
This started as a mission to find a Hash (expat international) group meetup somewhere in this vast park, but since we didn't connect it turned out to be a "walk in the park" and pure joy. Central Park may be in a more convenient location for tourists, but Prospect Park is a divine place to explore, with plenty of twists and turns, and what the heck is that? Lots to look at! The other thing I liked was that we found free on-street parking right across the street on Ocean Avenue. Amazingly we also found parking right by Central Park as well. (This trip was a superb driving one) Even hanging out in the van, having a cold one at the parking spot was a fun experience. There's even a cafe in the middle of the park that is super nice! Worth seeking out when visiting Brooklyn.
We were based in Manhattan but hopped on the subway all the way to Brooklyn for a little urban escape. First stop: Prospect Park. Lucky for us, there was a foodie event happening called Smorgasburg, basically a lineup of 20-30 vendors serving everything from savory bites to sweet treats. It was a rainy day, which probably kept the crowds away. Honestly? No complaints, we didn't have to wait more than a few minutes for our food, and the tables with umbrellas made it easy to stay cozy. After fueling up, we took a scenic half-mile stroll to the Boathouse. It's stunnin charming, rustic architecture surrounded by lush greenery. We sat for a while, soaking up the calm before crossing the street to explore the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. Overall: 4-5 stars. Super chill, and a perfect mini-adventure outside Manhattan. Highly recommend!
As parks go, Prospect is very packed on the weekends and many families are doing their own thing and getting away from city life for a while. It's pretty large and there are various areas for kids to play on swings and even has water features to cool them off. Trails abound as well as bike paths. Surely there is something for everyone who wants to get to the outdoors and relax a while. Clean by city standards and filled with families makes the park by day seem relatively safe. A nice place to spend a few hours.
Nice park in Brooklyn and the biggest. It lies in the middle of Brooklyn and has very beautiful, tall and breathtaking trees that you can sit underneath for shade and have a picnic. I used to come here with my mom and do barbecues here. You can just go deep in the park and find a nice grassy area with big trees for shade and then do your barbecue with a portable grill. There is also a lake inside the park where there's a lot of ducks that I used to feed bread. They look very cute. I still remember the time my sister fell into the lake and thankfully the lake wasn't deep where she fell into and unfortunately it was the winter time so she was freezing to death. She had to change out of everything and just freeze. This park is also good for ginkgo berry trees. They got some in this park where you can get off the floor in the fall. They always fall off but stink like crazy! My mom sometimes gets these ginkgo berries but she has to get the seed out of the berry fruit, which is the stinkiest part. Other than that, I did come here for a Lousy T-Shirt race from NYC RUNS and it was very well organized with all the tents and directions. Many directions for anyone who always gets lost easily, which is me. Thankfully they have signs or else I will be lost to death!
This park was a blessing during covid restrictions. My wife and I would walk the park for exercise and to keep sanity. I remember during that time so many people with roommates or just lonely would come to this wonderful park. We enjoyed this park during better times and better weather. This park has a carousel and lots of bird watching. A jewel in the heart of Brooklyn.
Visited this park recently for my first ever NYC Run's Brooklyn 5K Marathon. This leg of the race starts bright and early at West end of Prospect park (deserted and a bit scary early in the morning); got to meet a fellow runner whose also walking along the path of the park and felt a little less daunting. Park itself is huge and surrounds a serene pond with a few geese and ducks swimming around. Didn't realize until the race that the park's roads were a bit steep, took a lot of strength and energy for those uphill jogs/runs. Eventually reached the finished line within a good time (for a newbie); Got to take in the view of the park and enjoyed my self win. Met up with fellow Yelper Nancy as well for the race. Park also holds family friendly events throughout the year and is easily accessible for MTA as well.
If I had to pick my favorite thing about Prospect Park it would be the lake because the fishing keeps my husband busy during the summer months. I have ridden my bicycle many a time around that loop and have eaten many a terrace bagel on those benches near Bartel Prichard Square. Life is so happy in that park, you can hear the bandshell from several blocks outside of the park. I saw Interpol play there many years ago. In all seriousness, the bamboo Forrest on the east side is a great place to hang and the large meadow is a great place to take free yoga outside in the summer. They call it Brooklyn's backyard for a reason, there is something for everyone here even if you think there is not!
The park is huge! We tried to meet friends for a picnic. We found them after an hour. I usually walk the park in the morning to get exercise in. Have tried to incorporate more nature in my everyday life to gather peace and grounding. This is a nice place to visit for families and large groups. Ant wait to read about your outdoor adventures!
Lovely neighborhood park with grass areas for spikeball and volleyball, unlimited picnicking areas, and gorgeous views. The Prospect Park Forest is expansive enough that you can essentially walk the entire thing while staying in the shade! And I appreciate the quieter offshoot trails to get away from the city sounds and crowds.
Huge and beautiful park in Brooklyn. Has some nice and secluded trails which do feel like small hikes. Also less crowded than Central Park which was nice. Definitely a nice spot for people watching although I will always prefer Central Park.
Perhaps the main reason I prefer visiting Prospect Park over Central Park when I'm in NYC, is because of the lack of people pestering you as walk by with laminated sheets trying to sell you carriage rides. The last time I was in Central Park in 2019, I couldn't walk more than 5 feet near the entrance without somebody yelling at me, "Would you like 15 minute ride for $50 on beautiful horse, Sir? It's not rip-off, it's best deal in city." By the way - I'm not here to diss Central Park, since it's something every visitor should do; but stay away from the handsome carriages rides unless it's a bucket list thing. Like most things in my youth, I did not fully appreciate Prospect Park when I was a child. After a full week of school, I just wanted to sit on the couch and watch TV or hang out with my friends playing stick ball in the post office parking lot. It was also a pain having to hop onto the B Train at the 50th street station (that was pre-9/11 since only D trains service that part of BKLYN now), make a few transfers, and then after about 40-45 min get to the park. My mom worked in Manhattan's garment district (some might say it was a borderline sweat shop) sewing buttons and zippers for $.10/piece, while my dad worked way out in Long Island. Their story was not unlike many first generation immigrants, so after a week of working long hours, they wanted their kids to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine, run around to get rid of the excess energy, and have a family picnic. This often meant a trip to the Prospect Park. This place is beautiful with plenty of walking paths filled with joggers, bicyclists, parents pushing strollers, and the occasional roller bladder. As an adult, I can truly appreciate the peace and serenity which comes with the greenery, which is so often devoid in the city landscapes. I especially enjoy watching the ducks and various water fowl throughout the many ponds which dot the park. Since I visited in the winter, the ice skating rink was still in operation and it was nice watching all of the families having fun. Prospect Park is probably still more of a "local" attraction since the area near the park is fairly residential. Which is likely fine for the folks who regularly visit and want to keep this place their hidden refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
If you've been lounging on your couch binge-watching shows about people having fun outside, it's time to trade that remote for some real-world adventure in Brooklyn's backyard--Prospect Park. This isn't just any park; it's 526 acres of pure, unadulterated joy where you can swap your Netflix queue for a day packed with wildlife, music, food, and maybe a few friendly ducks. Start your visit by saying hello to the park's local celebs: the swan and duck families. Following them through their life cycles is like your very own nature documentary--except this time, you're the one who's narrating. Watch as the fluffy ducklings turn into slightly larger fluffy ducklings, and feel a sense of accomplishment that, yes, you've witnessed the circle of life (and didn't even need a Disney soundtrack). Once you've had your fill of cuteness, head over to see the turtles. They've got the chillest vibe in the park, sunbathing like they're on a permanent vacation. Just don't try to race them--they've got all day, and you'll probably lose. Next, make your way to Drummer's Grove, where the rhythm is gonna get you--literally. Join in or just vibe to the beats that range from laid-back to "how are they doing that with their hands?" levels of impressive. And if all that rhythm gives you an appetite, you're in luck. Hit up the annual Smorgasbord events for a foodie fest that'll make your taste buds do the happy dance. Whether you're into artisanal donuts, gourmet tacos, or a pretzel the size of your head, there's something here that'll make you rethink all your life choices up to this point. For those who like their food with a side of health, the Farmer's Market is your go-to. Pick up fresh, local fare that'll make you feel like you could totally become one of those people who meal preps. Or, you know, just snack on the go as you ride a bike, jog, or casually stroll like you own the place. And don't forget the bandstand! Enjoy live music that'll have you tapping your feet while you wonder if you should take up an instrument--or just stick to appreciating the pros. Finally, don't leave the pooch at home! Prospect Park is basically doggy heaven. Bring your four-legged friend along for a run, and watch them live their best life as they chase after squirrels, sticks, and probably their own tail. So, what are you waiting for? Prospect Park has it all--furry friends, tasty treats, beats that won't quit, and enough fresh air to convince you that, yes, you do love the outdoors. Lace up those shoes, grab a bike, leash up the dog, and dive into everything this Brooklyn gem has to offer. The ducks are waiting. read more
2 years ago
Prospect park is filled with wonderful activities, places to see, and lots of awesome organizations that you can be part of. Prospect Park has lots of history to it since being made in 1905, it's a signature element of Brooklyn's history. This park brings lots of culture to it and events and activities for groups of people of all ages and cultures. The park as many events and activities that teach the public about the park and ways to preserve it. There are many organizations and programs that brings the public into the park regularly to participate in the different ways of caring for and learning about the park. There are many volunteer and job opportunities available at the park and since it is so close to Brooklyn's botanic gardens, and many schools and in a residential area, there are many programs and activities that are catered to kids with some child care programs that partner with the park. I highly recommend giving prospect park a visit at any time of the year!! read more
3 years ago
Yo, you could spend the whole day in this park, but Jamie W. and I only walked around for a couple of hours. It was hotter than the hinges in hell, and tempers were flaring. Not mine, mind you, but I can get snitty when provoked. Similarities to Central Park are purely intentional since they share the same landscape architects, the legendary team of Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. At 526 acres, Prospect Park is less than two-thirds the size of Central Park, but it still acts as much as the core patch of greenery for Brooklyn as Central Park does for Manhattan. We entered at the western entrance, Bartel-Pritchard Square, and made our way through Long Meadow, which appeared to be the park's main social artery. We didn't make our way down to the lake, but we did walk through the handsome Endale Arch (photo: https://bit.ly/3SL5qx7). That brought us to the truly grand Grand Army Plaza with the majestic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch as its centerpiece (photo: https://bit.ly/3fnuDjO). It's Brooklyn's own Brandenburg Gate of which it bears a striking resemblance with (review: https://bit.ly/3TSuDXQ). It only dawned on me then that I had been on the northern fringe of the park. That's where the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (review: https://bit.ly/3U7wmZ8) and the bounteous Brooklyn Museum (review: http://bit.ly/2TF1j9f) are. Brooklyn dreams, baby. RELATED - Exploring Brooklyn? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2V51pX7 read more
Awesome park, hang out or work out or walk around.Perfect for marathons, picnics, biking, BBQs in summer. I usually make a full circle. Good for dogs. Lately I noticed an unusual amount of dry dead trees that simply fell apart, I do not know what is causing it so I am not going to speculate. read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
01/22/23: Received text from a friend to go walking. Was thinking of the same but closer to home but decided to take up on offer and have walking company. It was brisk day with chance of rain but we took our chances. So many folks out enjoying the milder weather . While walking passed the pond with ducks. Something about nature that is so soothing. Funny thing is I felt as if they were posing for me to take their picture. As I zoomed in the colors were beautiful. They just kept paddling around posing so I obliged and took their lovely pics. read more
I've spent a lot of time in this park, for various reasons-- casual walks, barbecues, playing tackle football, comedy shows (during the height of Covid), ice skating, etc. I'd say this park has a little bit of everything that will suit your needs. The park is pretty neat, most folks are respectful of your space, neat and courteous. The only real improvement that could be made are maybe some additional benches for sitting, a few more garbage cans and I know the park is relatively large, but you don't really see too many staffers unless you're near an exit. read more
5 years ago
We love visiting Brooklyn in NYC. This park is definitely worth a visit. It's not as big as Central Park, but it's still very big. It's easy to wander around and escape the city for a bit. You can rent kayaks and peddle boats at the pond/lake. We had never peddled boated before, so we tried that. We weren't really fans, it was pretty tiring. Next time we're going for the tried and true kayaks. Take my husband's misfortune as a word of warning: make sure your belongings are secure before you go out on the water. We're pretty sure the lake claimed his phone. read more
1 year ago
I love green spaces and parks and this one has so much to offer. Unfortunately this park seems like Central Park without the funding. Most of the buildings were really cool, but neglected and pretty run down. I would love to see this park get a little love because it has so much to give. There's trails and a nice bike/walking path and lots of space to spread out. read more
The farmers market had a great selection and the pricing was similar if not cheaper than where I am from in Charleston, SC which I was surprised about. Overall the park felt a little underwhelming. Lots of parts blocked off with wire fencing, rope, cones, etc. The water fountains were nice, but very run down and the bathrooms very pretty bad, although we were glad to find a public restroom none the less. Overall, I was expecting something like a smaller central park, but it felt more like its run down and neglected cousin. read more
On a dreary winter morning, Prospect Park was a wonderful escape . Located near Prospect Park, Park Slope and Gowanus neighborhoods, the walk to it is lovely. The architecture of the many brownstones makes the walk so enjoyable. Prospect Park reminded me of Central Park, and I found out it was designed by the same person. It is spacious, lots of walking paths, green areas and they are preserving the trees and plants. There were ponds and plenty of ducks. A very, nice park nestled in a neighborhood. read more
First time at Prospect Park. We walked around where the pond was and saw swans, turtles, and lots of cute dogs. A lot of people were biking and on a run. The weather was beautiful and can't wait to come back and check out the rest of the park, even the zoo. read more
6 years ago
My prospect park in Brooklyn will always be dear to me trust me!!! A park that I have seen so many concerts, had family gatherings and just hung out with friends. The things we take for granted etc. Now in 2020 I am here with my hubby and doggie durning covid 19 taking a walk that I truly appreciated. Everyone for the most part were Social distancing and wearing masks. We really had lovely fall day!! Oh what a day. read more
Intimate old school very simple stage for small concerts with standing room only/sit down if you bring a blanket or chair vibes as the flooring/ground is mostly concrete. Seating is first come first served. There's no fancy lines seating etc. Just arrive several hours before your concert especially if someone popular and g foldable carrying chairs and post up in line and wait. Bring drinks sandwiches and be prepared to walk far if you have to use it. Cool low key spot for a casual concert evening. After, people are usually barbecuing outside the gates and across the street or serving some hot food especially great during the week as there is nothing open. Not easy to find but best to enter off 9th and Prospect Park West to get to stage right fastest. Also the food and merchandise venues tend to be on this side and bathrooms on the east side. read more
I've been taking lengthy walks recently and it's been so peaceful. I remember telling myself I'd go to the park way more often and then...didn't! So it feels really good to be among nature and all the greenery. I love seeing all the happy animals. The turtles sun bathing, the ducks, and small bird singing in the trees. The squirrels collecting their nuts and especially the beautiful foliage of fall! Doesn't get any better! I'm about to have a Disney moment and sing and spin among the animals lol read more
Recently ran another 5K race here and the park in full bloom summer is beautiful. Good spot to get in a run and some exercise. Working bathrooms available too right outside park entrance walking in from the Q subway station. read more
Honestly, I don't feel there is one corner of this park that doesn't deliver in peace and tranquility. And during the autumn season, it gets better. Dogs love it, children love it, if you're having a hard time and need an escape to breath, you'll love it. You can find a corner and zen out. Taking a long walk is not laborious. If you are not a fan of walking for long stretches, do so here! They gave many benches and places to sit. The weekends are filled with photography and you can tell why this is a popular destination, because the backdrops, hello! I kept missing Smorgasbord, maybe I'll go in spring. And with the cold season there's ice skating at Lakeside. A childhood classic. So many activities. I can't stop gushing about this place, because I genuinely love it. read more
Prospect Park is a large park in Brooklyn, and it's a great place to explore on a pretty day. When we were in the area recently, we spent an hour or so taking a long walk around the park. One of my favorite sights to see was the boathouse on the park's lake - it's gorgeous at sunset. There are great walking paths throughout the park, as well as lots of great grassy lawn areas for picnics, hanging out, etc. It's a huge park, so there really is a lot you can do here! I'm jealous of everyone that gets to live close to this amazing park! Endless possibilities in such a large park! read more
In these current times, the Park has been emerging as THE place to be. It's simultaneously serving as our gym, coffee place, library, dining place, escapism and therapy session. Shout out to the Prospect Park Alliance for doing a great job maintaining and curating this vast space. It's lush greenery, walking trais, peaceful lake all provide a sense of normalcy and calm. I know at first glance it may not seem like it since there are so many people. I notice people tend to concentrate more in the well known areas. You just have to keep walking further and further to escape the crowd. I love walking by the lake and Boathouse especially at sunset. The Audubon Center is gorgeous at night. The forest area by The Ravine transports you completely out of the city. So many great memories shared here. Birthdays, picnics and BBQs. I've attended many free concerts at Prospect Park Bandshell Celebrate BK. Partied every year at CurlFest with friends. Broke my phone attempting rollerblading at Le Frak Center last year. You can still shop on weekends at the farmer's market by the Grand Army Plaza entrance. Looking forward to more days of catching fresh air! read more
5 years ago
After renting City Bikes, our party of four set off to ride the 3 mile loop at Prospect Park. There were tons of people enjoying the sunshine, involved in summer camp, having a picnic, or riding the loop. Because it was a warm day, I appreciated the water stations to refill my bottle and the open restroom that wasn't well marked but people were friendly enough to point us toward the way. read more
Not to be confused with Suspect Park (full of criminals), Inspect Park (which is constantly in danger of being shut down due to being so dirty), Retrospect Park (which in retrospect would have been a great name for this park), or Prospecker Park, which is full of Pros with large Peckers, hence I hang out there constantly. I was once a Prospect-ive tenant of Brooklyn, and I was hoping I'd live somewhere near Prospect Park. Of course, I also wanted to live near a highway until I realized: the highways here don't move in daylight hours. And often in nightlight hours too. This is basically Central Park for Brooklyn as far as I'm concerned. It's right in the middle of the borough and it's absolutely enormous (yes I'm talking about the park, not the pecker), and no matter which part of Brooklyn you're in you're never that far away from Prospect Park. Not in Brooklyn terms anyway. It's huge and enormous and perfect for the burrow, I mean borough, and far less pretentious and perfectly designed than Central Park because it's part of an actual middle-income to lower-income set of neighbourhoods and borders both rich areas and poor areas. I couldn't really like the park any more than I do, but I highly recommend you stay out of it at night time. It's just a little bit dangerous. And Peter, the CM of Brooklyn, who is one of the best there is, apparently picked my pecker to peck, then spilled vinegar on it, so I guess Peter picked to peck my pickled pecker. read more
I hadn't spent a good amount of time in Brooklyn since folks were Livin' Single and, if I am honest, that's the NYC I miss. When I visit now it's... not at all the same. I won't bore you with a diatribe but the city I fell in deep like with doesn't really exist anymore... but there are pockets. The first time I even realized there were major parks in NYC that weren't Central, I was all, like, 'whaaa?' And then I wanted to explore and check 'em out. I feel like Prospect Park isn't really in that category since a.) it's huge b.) it's grand and c.) it's packed full of people. Nevertheless, if you want some 'big statement' green space in your life and don't feel like the heavy traffic of Central Park, cross boroughs and spend some time in Prospect Park. You're sure to find all the lush green, calming water, pretty flowers, loud goings on, and shooping* you'd want. The afternoon I found myself in the park, there was a race, a farmers market, a musical performance, a protest, lots of screaming kids and crying parents, bikers, and Mid-Atlanticers tricking themselves into thinking sun = warmth. I told myself that I couldn't venture too too far into the park because a.) it's huge b.) it's grand and c.) it's packed full of people. But even though my feet and posture told me to stop walking, I couldn't. There's something hypnotic about Prospect Park. Current Brooklynites may know little about the importance of Maxine Shaw but as I walked the paths and thought back to the city I used to know, I was grateful that there are still some parts that feel familiar. *Is that still a thing? I feel like Captain Marvel trying to get caught up on present day life. read more
1 year ago
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