Prospect Park

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Quick Facts

Prospect Park

New York

(212) 639-9675

Map

Things To Do

Overview

Prospect Park, located in the heart of Brooklyn, is often considered Brooklyn's version of Central Park.

The park is home to a forest, a lake, and an ice skating and roller rink, as well as many athletic fields, dog runs and picnic areas. It's popular with running and bicycling enthusiasts and is a favorite destination for summertime concerts.

Map of Prospect Park

Latitude, Longitude: 40.662500, -73.969440

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Activities

  • Boating

    The LeFrak Center at Lakeside offers pedal boat and bike rentals.

  • Bird Watching

    The park is located along the Atlantic Flyway for North American bird migration and is a great place to spot a variety of birds, including yellow-bellied sapsuckers, scarlet tanagers, downy woodpeckers, green herons, red-tailed hawks and 18 duck species.

    The Audubon Center in Prospect Park is also a great resource for birders.

    Check the Prospect Park Alliance website for an interactive birdwatching map.

  • Bicycling

    Bicycling is popular on the 3.35-mile Park Drive road.

  • Fishing

    Prospect Park Lake is open to fishing. Check the park website for more information about fishing regulations.

  • Hiking

    There are four hiking trails in the park. Check the park website for descriptions and locations of trails.

  • Historic Sites

    Visitors to Lefferts Historic House can learn about what life was like in Brooklyn during the 1820s.

  • Horseback Riding

    There is a 3.5-mile bridle path in the park that is open to horses.

  • Picnicking

    The lawns in prospect park are a popular picnicking destination for New Yorkers.

    There are also several barbecuing areas within the park. These include:

    -Both sides of Bandshell -North area of Long Meadow -Area near Prospect Park South West and 10th Avenue -Area near Vanderbilt Street and Prospect Park South West -Area north of Picnic House -Grecian Shelter area -Area south of Wollman Rink

    Remember that barbecuing is allowed in designated areas ONLY. Additionally, barbecuing is not permitted under trees, and all coals and litter must be disposed in trash receptacles.

  • Tennis

    The Prospect Park Tennis Center has several outdoor courts.

  • Wildlife Watching

    Prospect park is a great spot to view a variety of bird species. It's also home to a vast array of wildlife, including fish and turtles, as well as small mammals like rabbits, raccoons and possums.

    The Audubon Center in Prospect Park is a great resource for birders, and the Prospect Park Zoo offers an opportunity to view and learn about animals.

  • Winter Sports

    During winter, ice skating is available at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside.

    The park is also a popular destination for sledding and cross-country skiing.

Park Partners

Prospect Park Alliance

The Prospect Park Alliance partners with the City of New York and the community to make Prospect Park the beautiful place Brooklynites know and love. The alliance cares for the natural environment, preserves historic design, provides facilities, and hosts events, programs and activities through the year.

(718) 965-8951

Phone Numbers

Primary

(212) 639-9675

Links