The temperatures have dropped slightly and the leaves haven’t changed just yet, but fall will soon be here. Although the seasons are changing, it doesn’t mean you have to stay inside and miss out on lots of outdoor activities in the community. These three local Brooklyn parks offer plenty of opportunities for fall fun.
McCarren Park
Not as large as Prospect Park or as well known as Brooklyn Bridge Park, McCarren Park offers just about everything a Brooklyn resident could want. Running tracks, walking trails and tennis courts help neighbors stay active and promote physical wellness. Little kids will enjoy hours of fun at the large playground, while older children can take full advantage of the baseball and soccer fields. And in the summertime, Brooklynites can take a dip in the park’s recently restored pool.
Besides offering multiple opportunities to stay active and exercise, McCarren Park is also an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Start your day with a bagel and coffee from nearby Frankel’s Deli and enjoy the sunrise from a park bench. Pack a lunch and picnic at the available tables or go old school and spread a blanket on the field. Grab some friends and host a BBQ using the on-site grills.
Owl’s Head Park
Located along the riverfront, Owl’s Head Park is one of the most family-friendly parks in the area and features a large children’s playground, plenty of picnic areas, and a dog run. There’s even a skateboard park with ramps. A great place to enjoy the fall foliage, it also offers plenty of open spaces with beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline, Staten Island and the historic Verrazano Narrows Bridge. Plus, during the winter months, Owl’s Head Park’s giant hills are perfect for some serious sledding and snow tubing action.
Fort Greene Park
Located near the Brooklyn Technical High School and the Brooklyn Hospital Center, Fort Greene Park is a city-owned and -operated landmark that’s been fostering community for over 150 years. Not your average local park, Fort Greene Park offers a variety of recreational and educational programs.
The “Fitness in the Park” program encourages residents to stay active and enjoy the available outdoor fitness equipment, basketball and tennis courts, and running tracks. For passive exercise and quiet moments of contemplation and reflection, the Monument Plaza section provides the perfect setting and space. Children can benefit from participating in the Young Naturalists program which introduces them to the values of park stewardship, gardening, composting and bird watching.
In addition to their year-round facilities and activities, Fort Greene Park also showcases seasonal programs like weekly Yoga in the Park events and the popular “Arts In The Park” revolving exhibit that showcases the work of local Brooklyn artists, photographers, and sculptors throughout the park.
These are just a few of the best local parks near Gowanus and 363 Bond Street residencies. If you’re new to the neighborhood or just haven’t had a chance to enjoy these three Brooklyn favorites, this fall is the perfect time to get acquainted with these three fantastic local parks!