These NYC Micro-Parks Are Small in Size But Big on Fun
Living in a mega-city like New York offers a unique experience; however, it often necessitates a surprisingly compact lifestyle. While expansive green spaces like Central Park stand out, Manhattan is home to numerous small parks that provide much-needed green retreats. This article highlights five of the tiniest parks by acreage in Manhattan, each an ideal spot for relaxation.
01. Septuagesimo Uno
Size: 0.04 acres
Location: W. 71 St., between W. End Ave. & Amsterdam Ave., on the Upper West Side
Septuagesimo Uno is regarded as the smallest park in Manhattan and offers an urban retreat amidst developed surroundings. Established as a pocket park in 1969, it features benches and lush gardens, providing just enough space to take a breather in this bustling neighborhood.
02. Minetta Green
Size: 0.06 acres
Location: Minetta La. & Ave. of the Americas, in Greenwich Village
Minetta Green serves as a memorial to a once-thriving brook that ran through the area. This petite park features peaceful seating areas surrounded by greenery and subtly pays homage to its historical significance through design elements like a bluestone path depicting fish.
03. Sir Winston Churchill Square
Size: 0.05 acres
Location: Downing St., Carmine St., & Ave. of the Americas, in Greenwich Village
This small oasis is named after the famed British Prime Minister and provides a pleasant sitting area adorned with gardens and a decorative iron fence. Although part of the larger Downing Street Playground, this nook is a favorite spot for locals seeking a quiet place to relax.
04. Convent Garden
Size: 0.13 acres
Location: Convent Ave., 151st St., & St. Nicholas Ave., in Harlem
Convent Garden, originally the site of the Convent of the Sacred Heart, showcases the city’s efforts to create green space in urban environments. Visitors can enjoy a gazebo, seating areas, and beautifully maintained gardens, all contributing to a serene atmosphere.
05. Abe Lebewohl Park
Size: 0.16 acres
Location: E. 10th St. & 2nd Ave., in the East Village
This East Village micro-park is named after Abe Lebewohl, a significant figure in the culinary landscape of NYC. Known for hosting a greenmarket and summer concert series, this park has served as a beloved neighborhood gathering space for over two centuries.
In conclusion, these tiny parks in Manhattan offer residents and visitors alike a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Exploring these green spaces is a delightful way to enjoy the best of Manhattan’s vibrant atmosphere.