Best Parks for Picnics in Manhattan and Brooklyn
Grab a blanket, some food from a deli, and claim your spot. These are the best picnic parks in NYC.
Manhattan
- Sheep Meadow (Central Park) — The classic. 15 acres of flat grass with skyline views. No sports allowed, just lounging. Gets packed on sunny weekends — arrive before noon.
- The Great Lawn (Central Park) — More space than Sheep Meadow. Surrounded by trees with Belvedere Castle visible. Open spring through fall.
- Bryant Park — Midtown oasis with moveable chairs and tables. Grab lunch from Whole Foods on 42nd Street and eat like a civilized person.
- Hudson River Park (Pier 25-26 area) — Waterfront grass with Jersey City views. Less crowded than Central Park. Bring wine (technically not allowed but everyone does it discreetly).
- Carl Schurz Park (Upper East Side) — Quiet, local, East River views. The neighborhood park that tourists never find.
Brooklyn
- Prospect Park Long Meadow — 90 acres of uninterrupted grass. The biggest open field in Brooklyn. Less crowded than Central Park equivalents.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park (Pier 1) — Manhattan skyline as your backdrop while you eat. Doesnt get more NYC than this.
- Domino Park (Williamsburg) — Waterfront with Manhattan views. Grab tacos from Los Tacos nearby.
- Fort Greene Park — Hilly park with a monument at the top. Local Brooklyn vibe, farmers market on Saturdays.
Picnic Essentials
- Blanket (grass can be damp)
- Deli sandwich or Sweetgreen salad
- Portable speaker (keep volume respectful)
- Sunscreen — no shade on most lawns
- Trash bag — leave no trace
Watch our picnic spot reviews on NewYorkNoNavro YouTube.