Top 8 parks for a spring picnic in New York
'04.04.2022'
Nadezhda Verbitskaya
Now that spring is in full swing, it's time to meet friends for a picnic and enjoy New York. Edition Spectrum compiled a list of parks that are ideal for this. Choose the one that is more convenient for the location. Grab a blanket, sandwiches, cheese crackers, drinks and good vibes for a fun day out with friends and family.
Central Park Great Lawn
Location: Mid-park between 79th and 85th Streets
When you think of New York parks, the first thing that comes to mind is Central Park. If you're looking for the perfect picnic spot, check out Great Lawn. Here you can feel at one with nature while admiring the view of the Manhattan skyline.
On the subject: 8 Ways to Explore Central Park Without Leaving Home
Bryant Park
Location: Sixth Avenue and 42nd Street
Bryant Park is in close proximity to the #1 train, shrouded in the hustle and bustle of Midtown. With lots of trees and a few food stalls surrounding the park, this is the perfect spot on a warm spring day. If you want to cool off after sunbathing, check out the New York Public Library, located on Fifth Avenue inside the park.
Little island
Location: Pier 55 in Hudson River Park on West 13th Street
Little Island may be considered a newcomer to the New York City park scene, but it has as much to offer as any other park. From interesting architecture to breathtaking views of the Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building. It is located on the edge of the Meatpacking District, within walking distance of Hudson Yards, the West Village and SoHo.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Location: 334 Furman St., Brooklyn
Want adventure? Then you are in Brooklyn. There are many attractions here, but one of our favorites is Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO. Spend a day here and see the skyline of downtown New York, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge. It's worth taking the subway.
On the subject: Secrets of the Brooklyn Bridge: wine cellars, bomb shelter and a pack of circus elephants
The Battery
Location: State Street and Battery Place
On the very outskirts of Manhattan, you'll find Battery Park, which offers great views of the Hudson River. The Battery is the perfect picnic spot if you want to go somewhere in the heart of New York City. You can even turn your trip into a day trip while exploring Tribeca, the World Financial Center, and Wall Street.

Riverside park
Location: Between 72nd to 129th streets on Riverside Drive
Riverside Park, an iconic New York City park stretching across many streets along the Hudson River. Walking through the park, you can feel the classic atmosphere of the Upper West Side, as well as enjoy the view of the river. In addition, Riverside Park is a block away from the Columbia University campus, making it one of the most popular parks for students.
Astoria Park
Location: 19th St., 19th St., Astoria
Astoria Park contains the city's oldest and largest public swimming pool. However, in Astoria Park you can not only swim. Visitors come here to enjoy the outdoor tennis courts, running track, basketball courts and playgrounds. In addition, due to its location on the border of the East River between the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge and the Hall Gate Bridge, it offers great views of the coastline. So the benches around the perimeter of the park are popular places for youth hangouts.
Butler lawns
Location: Columbia University (Morningside campus)
Looking for a place closer to campus? The ideal location may be closer than you think. Butler lawns perfect for an impromptu picnic. Just imagine yourself and your friends chatting while sitting on the grass overlooking the Butler Library. If the weather is right, you can fill up on your vitamin D. We recommend arriving here around 7 pm before sunset so you can see the cotton candy sky hanging over the campus.