Parents Info
NYC’s parks are some of the best places in the world for families. This page helps parents and guardians plan safe, fun, and stress-free visits with children.
Child-Friendly Parks
Central Park’s playgrounds (Heckscher, Billy Johnson, and Adventure Playground), the Brooklyn Bridge Park slides, and the Bronx Zoo adjacent to Bronx Park are excellent choices. Many parks also have splash pads during summer months.
Safety Tips
- Keep children within sight at all times, especially near water features and bridges.
- Use the buddy system for older kids exploring on foot or bike.
- Apply sunscreen and carry water—shade can be limited on sunny days.
- Familiarize your family with a meeting point in case anyone gets separated.
Restrooms & Facilities
Most major parks have public restrooms near visitor centers and playgrounds. Changing tables are available in many locations, but it’s wise to check ahead if visiting a smaller park.
Content on This Site
nyc-parks.com is designed to be family-friendly. We do not publish content that is inappropriate for children. External links (such as affiliate tour bookings) may lead to third-party sites; we encourage parents to review those sites before sharing them with children.
Emergency Contacts
In case of emergency, dial 911. For non-emergency NYPD assistance in parks, call 311 or contact the nearest Park Enforcement Patrol (PEP) officer.