Instead of spending tons of money traveling all over the place to entertain the kids, I have promised to do more exploring of my own city because there is so much that I haven’t seen! One of these places is Brooklyn Bridge Park. I had heard so many great things about this place and I wanted to try it out for myself.
5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park With Kids
1) Jane’s Carousel: This carousel is over 100 years old but it is one of the most beautiful merry go rounds I have ever seen. We are considered carousel experts and this one is just gorgeous, with views of the water and the bridge through the plexiglass surrounding the ride is very relaxing and tranquil.
2) Beautiful Playgrounds: Just a few steps away from the carousel, there is a huge playground with plenty of activities for the kids to do. It has all the qualities of a great playground including slides, poles, climbing and etc. There is even a park with swings! Some of the cool features includes a sandbox, and water area.
3) Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory: Need I say anymore? When we approached the Brooklyn Ice Cream shop midday the line was right out the door. The great thing is that the line moved relatively quickly and it was so worth it! It was the perfect summer treat!
4) The View: the views are absolutely stunning. There were lots of couples and families doing some fantastic photo shoots, with the water and the bridge in the background it really is picture perfect. Whether you have a camera phone or a fancy camera, make sure you dedicate some time to get some great photo memories!
5) Trendy Restaurants: There is no shortage of restaurants that are on the water that provide indoor and outdoor seating. This includes the cult favorite Shake Shack! Don’t forget that there are plenty of multicultural restaurants just within a few blocks of the park too so there is no limit to good eats!
Don’t forget Brooklyn Bridge Park hosts lots of different events every single day! Check out the comprehensive schedule here.
Brooklyn Bridge Park, stretching along the East River in New York City, is renowned for its unique blend of architectural features, cultural landmarks, rich history, and green spaces, making it one of the best parks in the city for several reasons:
- Location and Views: The park’s position on the waterfront affords it some of the best views in the city. Visitors can gaze out across the East River to see the iconic Manhattan skyline, including the Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building. The park also offers a breathtaking view of the Statue of Liberty and, as its name suggests, a close-up view of the Brooklyn Bridge.
- Green Spaces: Despite its urban setting, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a significant green oasis. It boasts a variety of landscapes, from meadows to woodland, and is populated with native plant species. These areas not only provide much-needed green space in the heart of the city, but they also create habitats for local wildlife.
- Recreational Facilities: Brooklyn Bridge Park is packed full of recreational facilities. It includes soccer fields, basketball courts, playgrounds, and a roller skating rink. It also has a number of picnic areas, and BBQ spots. You can even rent spaces ahead of time!
- Cultural Amenities: The park is not just about outdoor activities. It is a cultural hub, featuring the historic Jane’s Carousel, a restored 1920s merry-go-round, and numerous public art installations. It also hosts outdoor movie screenings and other events throughout the year.
- Accessibility: The park’s accessibility adds to its appeal. With entrances at multiple points along its length, the park is easy to reach from various parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan. It’s also easily accessible via public transportation, including subways and buses.
- Environmental Sustainability: Brooklyn Bridge Park is designed with sustainability in mind. From its water reuse system and use of solar power, to the inclusion of stormwater capturing and native plantings, the park is a model for urban green spaces.
- History and Architecture: The park is a fascinating blend of old and new, with remnants of its past as a major shipping and ferry terminal integrated into the new designs. This combination of historic preservation and innovative design adds to the park’s uniqueness.
- Variety of Food Options: The park offers a diverse range of food options to satisfy any palate, from food stands to high-end restaurants, including the well-regarded Grimaldi’s. You can also find various food vendors during special events and in the summer months.
- Education Opportunities: The park also provides a range of educational opportunities. There’s an Environmental Education Center that offers various programs for children and adults, teaching about the park’s ecology and sustainability efforts.
In conclusion, Brooklyn Bridge Park’s combination of stunning views, recreational facilities, green spaces, cultural amenities, and its commitment to environmental sustainability all contribute to its reputation as one of the best parks in New York City.
What are your favorite parts of a park? Do you make park visits a whole day or a part of your day?
Hi! I’m Nellie. I am an entrepreneur, a busy mama of 3 and a wife to my high school sweetheart. I have been sharing content for over 12 years about how to cook easy recipes, workout tips and free printables that make life a little bit easier. I have been featured in places like Yahoo, Buzzfeed, What To Expect, Mediavine, Niche Pursuits, HuffPost, BabyCenter, Mom 2.0, Mommy Nearest, Parade, Care.com, and more!
Get comfortable and be sure to come hang out with me on social. Don’t forget to grab your free fitness journal before you go!
catherine gacad
Monday 7th of July 2014
i've walked across the bridge several times, but have yet to do the park. need to do that next time! looks like so much fun. plus the shake shack?! yum!
KalleyC
Tuesday 1st of July 2014
I love that park! You are so right, there are so many things to do with the kids there, and the view is just amazing! Glad you guys had a great time!
Nellie
Thursday 3rd of July 2014
Thanks Kalley! It really is a Brooklyn gem!
Kim
Thursday 26th of June 2014
This is one of my favorite areas in Brooklyn, not only because I grew up and went to school there (PS 8 on Hicks), we love the food, pier, park, and my daughter loves the carousel.
Great post & I love the pictures
Nellie
Thursday 3rd of July 2014
ohh nice! the carousel is really pretty. Hope you are doing well girlie!
Leslie
Tuesday 24th of June 2014
You are doing this summer right! We don't get to the park often, usually because it's just a major ordeal to get there, and then L just wants to do everything her sister does...which can get pretty dangerous for a two year old! Since we live in a traditionally agricultural area, the best park around here actually has farm animals and a little farm museum. Now I'm wishing we'd been there recently!
Nellie
Thursday 3rd of July 2014
Yes I have the same issue, somehow those 2 year olds feel they can do EVERYTHING their sibling does!! It makes for very interesting outings.
Carla
Tuesday 24th of June 2014
Your arms = awesome!
The girls love going to different parks so I think they would love this. Especially the carousel!
Nellie
Thursday 3rd of July 2014
Thanks Carla!! The carousel is definitely one of the prettiest I have ever laid eyes on.