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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to New Haven

Parks

Fresh air and open grass provide the space to clear a busy head. Sometimes the only remedy is a quiet afternoon spent outside.

Based on 456 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Scantlebury Park image 1
Scantlebury Park image 2
Scantlebury Park image 3
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Splash pads with colorful tipping buckets and courts for basketball and pickleball create fun for kids and adults. A gated playground with spongy ground cushions ensures safety for all ages. Benches and barbecue stations offer spots to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

A gated playground with spongy ground cushions falls for kids of all ages. The park also offers a splash park, skate park, basketball and pickleball courts, plus barbecue stands and a book station for visitors.

People are saying

"The water features here are awesome and totally Kid Friendly."

"The playground has a splash pad and a skate park."

"The park's splash pads and water features are awesome for kids."

Good to know

1

The park is very clean and safe for visitors.

2

There are plenty of activities for children, including playgrounds and water features.

3

The Farmington Canal trail runs right by the park, perfect for biking.

02
Edgewood Park image 1

Large park offers walking trails and courts for tennis and basketball with evening lighting. Families and dogs enjoy green spaces and a dog park area. Skatepark adds active fun for all ages in a calm setting.

Large green space with walking paths and a variety of sports facilities including tennis, basketball, and a skate park. A designated dog park area offers space for pets to exercise.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and a nice escape."

"I loved the farmers market's great selection of local produce."

"The tennis courts are new and well-lit until 10pm."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at Edgewood Park, so arrive early.

2

The farmers market operates every Sunday from late spring to early fall.

3

The park features a well-maintained skate park popular with enthusiasts.

03
West Rock Ridge State Park image 1

Rugged traprock cliffs rise above shaded forests with panoramic views of cityscapes and beaches. Trails range from gentle loops to steep climbs, offering both peaceful atmosphere and adventure. Crisp air scented by pine and wildflowers refreshes every step.

Rugged traprock cliffs rise above the landscape, offering sweeping panoramic views that stretch far. Trails include a gentle hike around the lake and a decent trek near Judges Cave, all set in a peaceful, natural atmosphere.

People are saying

"The panoramic views from the lookouts are incredible."

"It's so peaceful here with stunning lookout points."

"The park's trails offer stunning panoramic views."

Good to know

1

The hiking trails cater to all types of hikers, from easy to challenging.

2

Many parking areas are available at the park for easy access.

3

I recommend wearing hiking boots for the trails.

04
East Rock Park image 1

Park features panoramic city views and a castle monument at its summit. Visitors enjoy peaceful walks and family time with picnic tables, grills, and a large sand playground. Trails are well-maintained and free, ideal for walking, biking, and photos.

Free entry and well-maintained trails make this park easy to explore by foot, bike, or car. It offers beautiful views of the city and nature, with peaceful spots perfect for walking, picnicking, and photo sessions.

People are saying

"The view from the top is amazing, especially of New Haven."

"It's a beautiful and quiet place for relaxing walks."

"The views from the top of these parks are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

East Rock Park is free to enter.

2

Parking is extremely limited, so arrive early.

3

You can only hike up East Rock; no driving allowed.

05
East Shore Park image 1

Park offers beautiful views of Long Island Sound and a quiet atmosphere perfect for walks and family time. Sports lovers enjoy basketball courts and a large soccer field. Fishing pier and bocce court add fun for all ages.

An all-in-one park close to the sea with basketball courts, tennis courts, and a huge soccer field. It has a small playground with swings overlooking the beach and a bocci court near a fishing pier.

People are saying

"I found this park to be gorgeous and great for family gatherings."

"I found the sunset here to be beautiful and relaxing."

"It's so dog friendly, they even have a water fountain for them."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available at the park.

2

The park has a small playground for kids and swings with a view of the beach.

3

The sand in the park is a little rocky, so wearing appropriate clothing and shoes is recommended.

06
Hannah’s Dream Playground image 1

Playground features multiple playscapes with swings, slides, and monkey bars for all ages. Separate toddler and older kids areas keep play safe and fun. Nearby tennis courts and walking trails offer extra outdoor activities.

Multiple playscapes include swings, slides, monkey bars, and a sandbox. Separate areas serve toddlers and older kids, plus there are tennis courts and walking trails.

People are saying

"The playground has separate areas for toddlers and older kids."

"It's a wonderful kid-friendly place with multiple playscapes and sandbox."

"I loved the playground and its separate play areas for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has separate play areas for toddlers and older kids.

2

The playground has multiple playscapes, swings, slides, and monkey bars.

3

The parking lot is huge and street parking is usually available.

07
College Woods: East Rock Park image 1

Spreading trees and bridges over canals create a green, peaceful setting with clean, fresh air. Walking trails wind through shaded areas, perfect for family outings. A playground offers fun for kids, making it a great spot for outdoor activities and picnics.

Lots of walking trails wind through the park, surrounded by shade trees and open grassy areas. A playground offers space for kids, and the air feels clean and fresh.

People are saying

"I loved walking through the beautiful, well-maintained parks with lots of trees."

"It's a great place for walking your dog."

"It's a great place for kids to play in the park."

Good to know

1

College Woods is ideal for picnics, dog walking, and outdoor activities.

2

The playground features numerous walking trails for visitors.

3

The air quality in College Woods is fresh and healthy.

08
Jocelyn Square Park image 1

Park offers splash pads and basketball courts for active kids. Families enjoy dedicated play areas and safe spaces. Location near busy road means some noise but easy access.

Plenty of space and a dedicated play area for small children make this park decent for kids. The splash pad suits little kids, and kids playing basketball add to the activity. Trash and rude behavior sometimes affect the park's vibe.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with splash pads and a play area."

"The parks here are great for kids, with a dedicated play area and splash pad."

Good to know

1

The park has a dedicated play area for small children.

2

There is a splash pad suitable for little kids.

3

The basketball court is full size and often used.

09
Lighthouse Point Park image 1

City park blends serene waterfront views with a family-friendly playground and a lively atmosphere. Spacious grounds offer a relaxing beach setting perfect for barbecues and quiet moments. Historic carousel adds charm to this beautiful park and beach.

A beautiful park and beach offers plenty of room and nice views. It features a playground and water park that are great for kids and has areas for barbecuing and relaxing.

People are saying

"The beach here is nice, clean, and has beautiful views."

"The playground and splash pad are perfect for kids."

"The park's views are breathtaking and it's beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25 for Connecticut vehicles and $30 for out-of-state cars.

2

The carousel closes at 4 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect busy crowds in the summer due to the splash pad and carousel.

10
New Haven Green image 1

Open green space with historic buildings and old trees creates a peaceful park ideal for quiet walks. Live concerts add a vibrant atmosphere while a large water fountain offers scenic charm and views of downtown.

Surrounded by stunning architecture and green spaces, the park offers a peaceful and beautiful spot for walks and relaxation. It feels mindful and perfect for spending quiet time outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful spot with plenty of space to relax."

"It's a beautiful open space with so much history."

"I found the park peaceful and beautiful, perfect for relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking is metered until 9 pm, so bring quarters or read the signs carefully.

2

There are no public restrooms in the park, except for the nearby library.

3

The area can feel unsafe at night due to the presence of homeless individuals.

11
Edgewood Park Playground image 1

Playground features a recent renovation with variety of fun equipment and plenty of space for kids to run. Trails offer spots for walks but cleanliness issues affect toddler areas and benches. Environment stays clean and safe for families despite neighborhood mix.

Playground offers a recent renovation with plenty of space for kids to run. Trails provide a spot for walks, but the park struggles with cleanliness issues, especially in the toddler area and on benches.

People are saying

"It's a great, safe spot for kids to play and they loved the playground."

"This playground is a great, secure spot for kids to run around."

"It's a great, secure spot for kids to run around."

Good to know

1

The playground is safe with plenty of space for kids to run around.

2

It has been recently renovated and is well-maintained.

3

It features a variety of fun equipment for children.

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