As summer paints the skies blue and summer scents waft through the air, New York transforms into an idyllic canvas for those who relish the outdoor life. BBQ parks become the vibrant epicenters of culinary exploration, where grilling enthusiasts congregate to revel in the warmth of the sun, the camaraderie of friends, and the tantalizing aroma of smoky delights. Here’s a curated journey through ten BBQ parks nestled in New York’s eclectic neighborhoods, each radiating its own unique charm and culinary promise.
1. Fort Greene Park
Address: 85 S Oxford St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (718) 398-4000
Website: www.brooklynpark.gov
The verdant expanse of Fort Greene Park feels like a well-loved book, with each page turn revealing captivating stories. This park is not merely a congregation of trees and grass; it embodies the spirit of Brooklyn, where history intertwines with community. As you light up your grill beneath the watchful gaze of ancient trees, you’ll find a spectacle of diverse families enjoying picnics, making it an excellent backdrop for a BBQ gathering.
2. Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Address: Grand Central Pkwy, Queens, NY 11368
Contact: (718) 760-6565
Website: www.nyc.gov/parks
Flushing Meadows Corona Park sprawls like an artist’s palette, vibrant and filled with an array of colors, cultures, and activities. It boasts numerous BBQ grills nestled among spacious picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for an epic summer feast amidst the remnants of the 1964 World’s Fair. Your sizzling meats will mingle with the diverse aromas that waft from surrounding vendors, creating a multi-sensory experience worthy of its own festival.
3. Central Park
Address: New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 639-9675
Website: www.centralparknyc.org
Central Park, the crown jewel of Manhattan, is an expansive garden where vastness meets intimacy. While grilling is permitted only in designated areas, the experience is nothing short of magical. Encased by majestic skyscrapers and adorned with lush scenic vistas, you can revel in BBQ bliss as you gaze at the enchanting landscapes around you, making each bite a little piece of urban paradise.
4. Prospect Park
Address: 95 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Contact: (718) 965-8951
Website: www.prospectpark.org
Prospect Park, a bucolic refuge amidst the urban cacophony, beckons BBQ aficionados with its 90 acres of lakes, woodlands, and historic architecture. The grills here are modern-day cauldrons, bubbling over with the aromas of marinated meats and fresh vegetables. The park’s picturesque trails and scenic ponds provide the perfect reprieve for those looking to unwind while sharing grilled feasts with loved ones.
5. Van Cortlandt Park
Address: Broadway & Van Cortlandt Park S, Bronx, NY 10471
Contact: (718) 430-1800
Website: www.nyc.gov/parks
Van Cortlandt Park is an unassuming gem that cradles a plethora of BBQ spots by the serene Van Cortlandt Lake. Here, the grill transforms into a pulsing heart of flavor, surrounded by lush flora and tranquil trails for hiking. The atmosphere is filled with laughter and the sound of sizzling, making it a gathering spot where lifelong memories are forged over perfectly charcoal-kissed meals.
6. Baisley Pond Park
Address: 143-45 Baisley Blvd, Queens, NY 11434
Contact: (718) 528-3900
Website: www.nyc.gov/parks
Baisley Pond Park is a hidden oasis that laps against the urban rush in Queens. With BBQ areas offering panoramic views of the serene pond, it’s a tranquil spot where guests can enjoy the gentle lapping of waves while grilling sumptuous fare. The harmonious blend of nature and community vibes creates an inviting atmosphere for BBQ lovers of all ages.
7. Astoria Park
Address: 19th St & Hoyt Ave N, Astoria, NY 11105
Contact: (718) 626-8620
Website: www.nyc.gov/parks
Astoria Park unfolds like a picturesque postcard, featuring breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline against its lush backdrop. Grilling here feels like an alchemical process, where the aroma of smoky ribs mingles with the salty breeze from the East River. With recreational spaces for games and family activities, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
8. Highbridge Park
Address: 2301 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10032
Contact: (212) 795-1388
Website: www.nyc.gov/parks
Highbridge Park, a hidden treasure in the heart of Harlem, is where urban grit meets pastoral calm. The BBQ pits here are often surrounded by lush greenery, allowing for a unique grilling experience. As you barbecue among the trees, the laughter of children and the call of the joyful birds create a symphony, enriching the culinary experience with nature’s serenade.
9. Pelham Bay Park
Address: 555 Pelham Bay Park, Bronx, NY 10464
Contact: (718) 430-1800
Website: www.nyc.gov/parks
As the largest park in New York City, Pelham Bay Park is a sprawling landscape of natural beauty. The designated BBQ areas serve as culinary outposts, where grilling takes on a leisurely pace. Visitors can forage through scenic trails or relax by the tranquil beaches, creating an effortless fusion of relaxation and culinary perfection.
10. Tompkins Square Park
Address: E 10th St & Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 387-7696
Website: www.nyc.gov/parks
In the heart of the East Village, Tompkins Square Park is a vibrant tapestry of culture and community. The BBQ area here pulses with the lively hum of urban life, attracting food lovers eager to share stories as they savor grilled creations. This park stands as a testament to the city’s diversity, where flavors from around the world intermingle, formulating an unforgettable culinary extravaganza.
As the sun sets and the sky blushes with hues of orange and purple, these BBQ parks emerge as vibrant havens of flavor and community. Each location holds the promise of grilled perfection and the creation of fond memories nestled within the urban tapestry of New York. So, as you embark on your next BBQ adventure, remember that these parks aren’t just places to cook—they’re vibrant stages where stories are woven and friendships ignited around the flame.
