Closed now
This small, public park in lower Manhattan has been here since 1733 and it is the oldest in the city. When the Dutch established the settlement of New Amsterdam in the 17th Century, the area was used as a parade ground and cattle yard. The British subsequently expelled the Dutch and created a public park to play the sport of bowls. In 1770, the British erected a statue of King George III during a period of rancor and dissent within revolutionary circles. The statue was demolished when Washington declared independence and the revolutionaries used the converted lead bullets against the Loyalists. The only structure that remains today is the protective fence built by the British in 1773. Over the 19th and 20th Centuries the park landscape changed many times, however it still provides sound respite after a hectic day roaming the urban jungle. Don't forget to visit the Charging Bull statue created by Arturo Di Modica at the northern end of the park, since 1989, it has remained as the bronze symbol of optimism on Wall Street.
Closed now
Quite possibly the most gorgeous square in New York, Gramercy Park has a mysterious air of exclusivity. The square was built in the 1830s as a residence for the very rich, and in the center, they built what is New York's only private park. Residents in the surrounding buildings have keys to the lovely oasis, and it is only open to the public a few days a year, on special occasions. Guests at the Gramercy Park Hotel also get a key, so they may enjoy a stroll during their stay. The homes at Gramercy were built by some of New York's leading architects, so the area is definitely worth a trip, even if you find yourself locked out of this Garden of Eden.
The Owl's Head Park is a beautiful grassy expanse with good facilities for the visitors. It features a skating space, basketball courts, spray pool and lush greenery. You don't have to leave your furry friend behind as this park is pet friendly and houses a dog run space, too.
