Hidden treasure of NYC, come here in the summer time on the free ferry and check out the historic sites, sometimes there's even concerts and other fun activities!
Probably one of the most relaxing places in Manhattan, the river by your side, tourist-free (mostly) and the beautiful boardwalk areas
One of the most unique experiences NYC has to offer, you'd be a fool not to walk around and explore this place. Come later in the morning, evening or night to avoid tourist onslaught.
Some of my favourite views of Manhattan are here, enjoy the gorgeous sunsets and night views. The old warehouse walls are also very interesting historic parts of this park.
Recently refinished, one of the prettiest parts of Brooklyn. Look for the Yoga people when they practice!
This impressive carousel was restored completely and re-opened in 2011, featuring all of it's original glory. Perfect if you bring your young ones! More photos: http://flic.kr/s/aHsjypj1cA
Tired from a day of walking all over NYC? Get some of the best ice cream the city has to offer and chillax with your crew for a bit before walking again! Strawberry with waffle cone, can't go wrong.
The amount of Chinese people lounging, singing, playing chess, whatever in this park is a serious glimpse into Chinese culture. Also, there's a soccer field in this park if you fancy.
A nice refuge in the west village, look for the performers here. One of them brings out an entire grand piano, he means business.
So many films are filmed around here. If I were you, I'd probably keep my clothes on and not jump in, since there are so many kids wading here when the fountain is on.
Yell up to the top of the Arch, prepare to be amazed by the acoustical reverb of this little spot. Music performances here are extremely cool to hear here.
Artist's markets or Farmer's markets or just a place to sit and catch up with friends, this is it. Union Square is practically the center point of all things in NYC, everyone comes through here.
Open Monday Wednesday Friday and Saturday from the wee hours until 6pm all year round. Some stands close earlier or sell out quick. Check out the cooking demos if you get a chance!
You'd never expect to see Gandhi in the middle of NYC, but you will. Sometimes he's decorated in flowers. The gate is open during the day and closed at night.
They said he was going to be here for a limited period of time, but honestly, I would hate to see him go in all his chrome glory.
Whether you're sunbathing or dogwalking or whatever, it is the sight from the park to all the beautiful buildings around it that makes this park so special whenever you go.
The lawn in the summer is the nicest haven of midtown, not a bad place to nap. It also turns into a skating rink in the winter (free if you have your own skates!)
These guys mean business, with a projector coming from an actual trailer car, they show the reels as they were originally presented back in the day. Some films are really popular, so come early.
Want to see animals but don't want to spend an entire day trekking your butt off in the Bronx? This is your place!
The real name of this is Pilgrim Hill, from the statue that sits atop of it. BYOS Bring Your Own Sled!
If you enter from East 72nd street, this is one of the first things you will see. In memory of John Lennon, many fans pay their respects here daily. Donations for flowers are accepted!
Live Music! Get the schedule for great free shows, and come early! There'll only be room until they're all full, and most shows they have are amazing! Ticketed shows support the Summerstage program!
Tons of films filmed here, my favourite being Angels in America. This is a great place to sit and relax in the middle of your park exploration!
Supposedly this was "stolen" from Egypt to be placed in the park. Fact or Fiction? You be the judge.
One of the best offerings of Williamsburg is the view from the water of Manhattan. In the summer, the flea market is outdoors right by the park. When you're done, ride the ferry back to Manhattan!
This is home to the Brooklynites and their refuge from everyday stress. It was also designed by Olmsted and Vaux in 1867 to be different than Central Park as the people's park to relax and recreate.
The nicest expanse of grass in all of NYC that seems to just go on for miles and miles. Come early on the weekend before 9am, and see the ridiculous amount of dogs and their owners playing!
If you explore far enough, you will find the boat house. It's been restored, but that doesn't mean there are really any boats these days. Still, it's a great place for photos and a snack if you fancy.
Beautiful collections of plants and landscapes. Come in the spring for the annual Cherry Blossom festival! Be aware that bloom dates have been varying over the past few years because of early blooms.
Forget Coney Island in the summer, it's way too crowded, if you need a nice beach getaway, come here and be stress-free while you're at it.
Home to the 1939 and 1964 New York World's Fair, now it's mainly used for tennis tournaments, and dragon boat festival. A nice place to check out if you're curious about NYC history.
