Four Hidden Gem Parks to Seek Out this Summer with Kids

Pier 57's rooftop park offers lush landscaping, plenty of seating, and views of the city and sea. Photo courtesy of Pier 57
Pier 57's rooftop park offers lush landscaping, plenty of seating, and views of the city and sea. Photo courtesy of Pier 57
7/29/25 - By Kristy Etheridge

One of my favorite things about raising children in NYC is the sheer number of parks, playgrounds, and hidden gems to explore. When my kids and I get bored with our local haunts, we hop on the train to check out a new-to-us space.

If the summer doldrums are kicking in and you’re ready to break out of your routine, head to one of these hidden parks in NYC for a breath of fresh air. And, for more summer fun, check out our epic NYC summer bucket list or our ultimate guide to NYC splash pads and water playgrounds.

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Pier 57 Rooftop Park – Chelsea

Chances are, you’ve heard about Little Island, the wildly popular floating green space on the Hudson River. But you may not know about Little Island’s underrated next-door neighbor, Pier 57. Located in Hudson River Park, Pier 57 was originally built in 1907. A renovated version debuted a few years ago and features a food hall and a beautiful rooftop park. Finding the elevator and staircase is a bit tricky, but it's worth the hunt. Head toward City Winery at the pier’s south gate, directly across from Little Island, and follow the walkway around. Ride up to the roof to enjoy two acres of beautiful green space and stunning views of the Hudson River.

Greenacre Park – Midtown East

A cascading waterfall in the middle of the concrete jungle? Yes, please. Greenacre Park is a tiny oasis on East 51st Street in Midtown Manhattan that's open from April to December. It's the perfect place to pause in the middle of a busy day. The waterfall is the main attraction, and it's enhanced by plenty of greenery. Grab a seat and take a break from the hustle and bustle of Midtown. It's one of our favorite secret gardens to explore.

RELATED: 33 Best Things To Do in the Financial District with Kids

Hidden gem parks in NYC: Elevated Acre
The Elevated Acre offers plenty of room to romp among the tightly packed skyscrapers of the Financial District. Photo by the author

Elevated Acre – Financial District

My kids and I were delighted to stumble upon this hidden park during a walk through the Financial District a few years ago. To find the Elevated Acre, look for the outdoor escalator tucked between two buildings at 55 Water Street. The small park features a green space for kids to run around and some bleacher-style seating for relaxing, reading a story, or having a snack. Take a stroll around the perimeter of the park for cool views of New York Harbor.

Downing Street Playground – West Village

Sometimes called a “secret” playground thanks to its relatively hidden location, Downing Street Playground is a great place to burn off some energy. It has swings, a jungle gym, a garden, and sprinklers in the summer. To get to this hidden gem in the West Village, look for the small open door behind the brick façade on the south side of the street. When you're done romping, find more fun local destinations in the Village here.

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About the Author

Kristy Etheridge
Kristy Etheridge is a Brooklyn-based writer/editor and NYC’s resident tourist, exploring the city with her husband and kids. A Syracuse grad with a background in broadcast journalism, she spent her early career reporting in Wilmington and Charlotte. Now an editor for Christianity Today, Kristy freelances for Mommy Poppins, sharing her family-friendly NYC finds since moving to Brooklyn in 2018.