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Things to Do

Climbing a wall at the adventure course

No matter the season or weather, Parks has something fun to keep you active and amused. Through countless programs, events, and exhibits, we transform neighborhood parks and playgrounds into classrooms, theaters, gyms, planetariums, museums, and more. You can find fitness opportunities tailored to your age, location, and interests through BeFitNYC, or discover local events that match your availability and recreational desires in our Upcoming Events calendar. Add to that all of the Parks Department’s programs for the picking and first-class art for the finding, and you’ll learn that a visit to the park is the perfect antidote to a humdrum day.

Fitness Search: BeFitNYC

One benefit of living in the greatest city in the world is the amazing variety of recreational, athletic, and fitness opportunities available for people of all ages, interests and abilities. Parks offers many free or low-cost activities that can help New Yorkers get fit and stay fit. We’ve put information about our programs and others offered by local fitness organizations at your fingertips with our online guide and search engine, BeFitNYC.

BeFit NYC Cartoon Characters

 Explore BeFitNYC

Activities & Facilities

From swimming pools to wetlands and everything in between, Parks very own television show, It's My Park!, showcases the treasure trove of experiences waiting for you in NYC’s parks and recreational facilities.

Nature CentersNature Centers

PlaygroundsPlaygrounds

PoolsPools

Recreation CentersRecreation Centers

Skate ParksSkate Parks

Tennis CourtsTennis Courts

 More Facilities

Citywide Festivals

Parks produces a variety of large festivals and special events that provide unique experiences for thousands of New Yorkers year-round. Learn more about some of our biggest events by visiting the pages below.

Programs

Don’t get left out of the fun! Last year over four million people participated in our programs and special events.

Need guidance?
Urban Park Rangers
can help you discover New York City Outdoors.

Upcoming Events

Arts, Culture & Fun Series: The Beginning of the Disabled Movement in New York City

Thursday, March 11, 2010
Tony Dapolito Recreation Center, Manhattan

Tavern Concert: Irish Stout

Friday, March 12, 2010
La Tourette Park & Golf Course, Staten Island

Health Hike

Saturday, March 13, 2010
Alley Pond Park, Queens

Bridge and Arch Tour

Sunday, March 14, 2010
Prospect Park, Brooklyn

Local History Club: Women's History Month

Sunday, March 14, 2010
Blue Heron Park Preserve, Staten Island

 View all Upcoming Events

Forever Wild

Parks’ 51 Forever Wild Nature Preserves include over 8,700 acres of towering forests, vibrant wetlands, and expansive meadows. These vital open spaces offer the chance to walk in the woods, paddle a stream, or observe wildlife.

Autumn leaves in the water next to rock outcrop on shoreline