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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

Outdoor seating in parks

Fresh air and open grass are essential, but the ability to sit down comfortably makes the park experience complete.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kensico Dam Plaza image 1
Kensico Dam Plaza image 2
Kensico Dam Plaza image 3
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Massive dam and open green spaces create a scenic, peaceful atmosphere with lush greenery and walking trails. Families gather around a large playground while others enjoy breathtaking views from elevated spots. The park remains quiet and relaxing, ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.

Wide open spaces invite walking and exercise while a safe playground suits children of all ages. Clean and family-friendly, the park offers breathtaking photo opportunities and hosts cultural events.

Plenty of open outdoor space invites walking, picnics, and dancing. It works well for meeting friends or enjoying activities with family in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"It's a great park for kids, with a nice playground."

"The park has a great playground for the kids."

"It's a peaceful, scenic spot perfect for relaxing outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at Kensico Dam Plaza.

2

There are no admission or parking fees at the summer festivals.

3

The yoga class is one hour long and takes place every Thursday night at 6:30 pm through August.

02
Five Islands Park image 1

Park offers quiet, serene atmosphere with beautiful water views and well-maintained picnic and barbecue areas. Features include playground, walking trails, and boardwalks connecting small islands. Space is ample for picnics and outdoor activities, making it a calm spot for families and photography.

Well maintained with clean trails and open fields, this park offers amazing ocean views and a peaceful vibe. It features a playground with slides, swings, and a large sandbox, plus an outdoor pavilion for gatherings.

Calming and silent, the outdoor pavilion offers a quiet lunch spot with plenty of space. It provides a relaxing day outdoors with a peaceful atmosphere.

People are saying

"You'll find amazing views of the Long Island Sound here."

"It's a beautiful park with nice scenery and water views."

"I found the outdoor seating to be a wonderful, relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

There are restrooms on site.

2

During the summer, non-New Rochelle residents have to pay a $10.00 parking fee.

3

Visitors should be cautious of muddy surfaces and test the water before stepping in.

03
Glen Island Park image 1

Waterfront park offers panoramic views and a crescent-shaped beach with facilities for boating and water sports. Spacious grounds include picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and sports areas, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Calm and peaceful settings dominate, though occasional noise from groups can occur.

Breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and surrounding islands define the park. It offers a gorgeous beach for sunbathing and swimming, plus a marina, playground, and clean restrooms. The park is well maintained and peaceful, great for fishing, walking, or relaxing.

Open areas offer relaxing spots to enjoy fresh air. Plenty of space suits outdoor fun and gatherings.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful water views here."

"It's a beautiful park with spacious grounds."

"The outdoor seating is a beautiful and peaceful spot to relax."

Good to know

1

The park charges a $10 entrance fee for Westchester County residents.

2

Parking requires a permit, which can be hard to find.

3

The kitchen is open only on weekends, serving hot dogs and hamburgers.

04
Hunter's Point South Park image 1

Park along the waterfront offers unbeatable city skyline views including Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge. Atmosphere stays peaceful and refreshing during the day, ideal for jogging, strolling, or relaxing. Amenities include playgrounds, dog park, bike lanes, and a small restaurant, supporting a mix of families, dog owners, and casual visitors.

Waterfront setting offers views of the Manhattan skyline and many green areas for relaxing. The park features clean restrooms, free WiFi, and is accessible for wheelchairs with easy access by train, bus, or ferry.

Many green areas and outdoor spaces surround the water. Outdoor movies play on the lawn, creating a unique experience. Outdoor cafes offer spots to enjoy a drink in summer.

People are saying

"You get a spectacular view of the city and skyline."

"The parks here have beautiful views of Manhattan."

"The outdoor seating offers breathtaking views of the city."

Good to know

1

Yoga classes are held every Sunday morning in the park.

2

Zumba sessions take place on Wednesdays at 6pm.

3

Parking is not available at the park.

05
Pier 45 at Hudson River Park image 1

An 850-foot pier with spacious grassy areas and river breezes offers stunning views of city skylines and sunsets. The atmosphere stays mostly calm with occasional bursts of live music and dancing, creating a relaxed yet lively vibe. Well-maintained spaces include shaded spots and benches, making it a popular place to unwind and enjoy nature in the city.

Wide green lawns and benches create a pleasant place to relax with stunning views of the Hudson River. The park pier is well-maintained and accessible, offering a quieter riverside escape with occasional gatherings like Lindy Hop events.

Outdoor seating includes a cute bar and spots to relax with friends. Pier 45 at Hudson River Park offers an inviting place to sit for an hour or more.

People are saying

"I loved the nice views of the New Jersey skyline and the river."

"The park's pier offers fantastic views of the river and skyline."

"The outdoor seating offers gorgeous views of the Hudson River."

Good to know

1

Social dancing sessions like salsa and tango occur on weekend afternoons at Pier 45.

2

The pier has clean restrooms located near West Street.

3

There is a mist station at Pier 45 to help cool down visitors.

06
Rockland Lake State Park image 1

Large lake with breathtaking views and a cool breeze creates a peaceful atmosphere. Spacious swimming pool with water slides attracts families and children. Park offers wooden paths through forested areas and large picnic spaces, though some areas can become crowded and noisy.

Spacious areas offer picnics, camping, and BBQs with a beautiful lake and mountain backdrop. Trails support running, biking, and rollerblading, while a swimming pool and playground keep it family-friendly and fun.

Spacious outdoor areas offer a mix of nature and relaxation. Facilities include outside changing areas and spots to grill near the pool.

People are saying

"It's perfect for walks and picnics with ample space."

"I found the parks here to be excellent and wonderful."

"The outdoor seating offers peaceful lake views and a relaxing vibe."

Good to know

1

The parking fee is $10 per car.

2

The entry fee is $5 per person.

3

No food or drinks are allowed near the pool area.

07
Cedarmere Park image 1

Stone footbridge, old mill, and traditional English gardens create a historic and scenic setting. The park offers peaceful, secluded atmosphere with quiet ponds and water views. Visitors find it a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and photography.

A small, serene park with gorgeous gardens and a quiet, secluded atmosphere. It offers stunning views of the water and is ideal for peaceful walks, picnics, and portraits.

Small and quiet outdoor space offers a view of Hempstead Harbor. Some areas lack handicap accessibility, but the setting stays tranquil and nature-focused.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, serene park with gardens and ponds."

"You'll find a beautiful, serene place with lovely views of the water."

"I loved the outdoor seating with its charming views of the pond and harbor."

Good to know

1

Parking at Cedarmere Park is limited on busy days, with a narrow adjoining road.

2

Not all outdoor areas of Cedarmere Park are handicap accessible.

3

The estate may not always be accessible to the public.

08
Sweetbriar Nature Center image 1

Nature preserve offers peaceful atmosphere with educational programs and wildlife rescue efforts. Open spaces include playgrounds and picnic areas for children and families. Visitors encounter a variety of animals, including birds of prey and exotic species, in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Beautifully maintained trails support hiking and outdoor activities. The park features a playground for kids and a wildlife rescue area with birds and butterflies.

Outdoor areas provide space for kids to play freely. Both indoor and outdoor seating options exist, allowing enjoyment of the natural surroundings.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with trails and play areas."

"You can see so many rescued animals at this nature park."

"The outdoor seating is great for kids to play and learn."

Good to know

1

There is a $2 donation required for access to the upstairs rainforest area.

2

The butterfly house costs $5 for admission.

3

The center hosts engaging events for both adults and children throughout the year.

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