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Things to Do

Climbing a wall at the adventure course No matter the season or weather, Parks has something fun to keep you active and amused. Through countless programs, events, and exhibits, we transform neighborhood parks and playgrounds into classrooms, theaters, gyms, planetariums, museums, and more. You can find fitness opportunities tailored to your age, location, and interests through BeFitNYC, or discover local events that match your availability and recreational desires in our Upcoming Events calendar. Add to that all of the Parks Department’s programs for the picking and first-class art for the finding, and you’ll learn that a visit to the park is the perfect antidote to a humdrum day.

BeFitNYC

One benefit of living in the greatest city in the world is the amazing variety of recreational, athletic, and fitness opportunities available for people of all ages, interests and abilities. Parks offers many free or low-cost activities that can help New Yorkers get fit and stay fit. We’ve put information about our programs and others offered by local fitness organizations at your fingertips with our online guide and search engine, BeFitNYC.

BeFit NYC Cartoon Characters

 Explore BeFitNYC

Art in the Parks

James Surls on Park Ave

James Surls’ Walking Molecular Flower Colorado artist James Surl’s bronze and stainless steel sculptures are based on natural forms. They are exhibited on Park Avenue between 51st and 57th Streets.

 More Art & Antiquities in Parks

Activities & Facilities

From swimming pools to wetlands and everything in between, Parks very own television show, It's My Park!, showcases the treasure trove of experiences waiting for you in NYC’s parks and recreational facilities.

Golf CoursesGolf Courses

Kayak/Canoe Launch SitesKayak/Canoe Launch Sites

PlaygroundsPlaygrounds

PoolsPools

Recreation CentersRecreation Centers

Tennis CourtsTennis Courts

 More Facilities

Citywide Festivals

Parks produces a variety of large festivals and special events that provide unique experiences for thousands of New Yorkers year-round. Learn more about some of our biggest events by visiting the pages below.

Programs

Don’t get left out of the fun! Last year over four million people participated in our programs and special events.

Need guidance?
Urban Park Rangers can help you discover New York City Outdoors.


Upcoming Events

Independence Day Celebration

Saturday, July 4, 2009
Historic Richmond Town (441 Clarke Avenue)

Jazzmobile: Winard Harper

Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Carl Schurz Park, Manhattan

SummerScreen: Reality Bites

Wednesday, July 8, 2009
McCarren Park, Brooklyn

Bon Jovi Tribute Concert Featuring Bad Medicine

Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Forest Park, Queens

Mad. Sq. Reads: New York Novels

Thursday, July 9, 2009
Madison Square Park, Manhattan

 View all Upcoming Events

Forever Wild

Parks’ 51 Forever Wild Nature Preserves include over 8,700 acres of towering forests, vibrant wetlands, and expansive meadows. These vital open spaces offer the chance to walk in the woods, paddle a stream, or observe wildlife.

Autumn leaves in the water next to rock outcrop on shoreline