I’ve found that Prospect Park in Brooklyn offers an amazing array of activities perfect for families looking to make the most of their time together, whether it’s a sunny August day or the crisp air of fall. It’s so big, though, that it’s easy to miss some of the best spots. I’m putting together a guide to help you navigate it all, focusing on what’s there for your family.
Prospect Park Carousel
One of my favorite discoveries is the historic Prospect Park Carousel, which first opened its doors in 1912. It was beautifully restored and now features 53 whimsical figures, including not just horses, but also a lion, giraffe, and deer, along with two unique dragon-pulled chariots. It’s a truly charming ride that brings back old-school fun.
I love that it’s one of the few carousels in the nation that is wheelchair accessible. For families with younger children, the Carousel Birthday Party option sounds fantastic, offering unlimited rides. Plus, right nearby, the Pony Express Snack Bar is perfect for grabbing ice cream or cold drinks after your carousel adventure. Rides are $2.50 each, or you can get a book of five tickets for $11.50. It’s generally open Thursday through Sunday and on holidays from 12 pm to 6 pm.
Prospect Park Zoo
For a wonderful educational outing, the Prospect Park Zoo is an excellent choice. Operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society, it’s home to nearly 400 animals representing over 100 different species. I think it’s a great place for kids to learn about wildlife in an engaging way.
Throughout August, you can still catch “Calypso at the Zoo” on weekends, which focuses on Caribbean island wildlife. They also offer special programs like Zoo Club, Stroller Safari Series, and Keeper for a Day, which sound like fun, hands-on learning experiences. The zoo is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, and on weekends and holidays until 5:30 pm. Admission is $9.95 for adults and $6.95 for children aged 3 to 12.
Prospect Park Playgrounds
When it comes to letting the kids burn off some energy, Prospect Park has an incredible seven distinct playgrounds. I appreciate that there are so many varied spaces, ensuring children of different ages can find something to enjoy in a safe environment. Some even feature water play areas to help cool off on warmer days.
The LeFrak Center at Lakeside boasts the park’s largest water play area, known as Splash Pad, which is open from May through September and free for children under 12. I also found the Zucker Natural Exploration Area to be innovative, using natural storm-damaged trees and park materials to create its unique play structures. Imagination Playground is another standout, designed to spark creativity and encourage storytelling through its sculptures; it even hosts Saturday storytelling adventures through August. For the younger ones, Vanderbilt Playground has a dedicated area with age-appropriate equipment, while older kids can tackle more challenging structures.
Lefferts Historic House
For a trip back in time, Lefferts Historic House offers a fun and educational experience. I learned that it’s a wonderfully hands-on way for children to explore how families lived in the 19th century and how things have changed. It feels like a real step into history.
The house is open Thursdays through Sundays, from 12 pm to 5 pm until September 2nd, and then from 12 pm to 4 pm through September 30th. A suggested donation of $3 is appreciated. I think birthday parties here sound like a blast, with activities like potato sack races and treasure hunts. During the fall and winter, indoor activities like quilting, games, butter churning, and candle making are available, giving you a reason to visit year-round.
Prospect Park Audubon Center
I was excited to discover the Audubon Center, the first urban Audubon Center in the nation, offering fantastic nature programs for children. They have a “Discovery Pack” which provides families with tools and activities to explore nature independently.
The “Animal Encounter” program allows kids to get up close with the animals at the center, and “Nature’s Helpers” teaches environmental stewardship through activities like litter removal along the lakeshore. They also host pop-up events such as Family Fishing Clinics and Family Birdwatching. It’s a wonderful way to foster an appreciation for the natural world. Programming is generally available Thursday to Friday from 12 pm to 5 pm, and Saturday to Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm.
Smorgasburg Prospect Park
For food lovers, Smorgasburg Prospect Park is a must-visit, offering a massive selection from 100 local and regional food vendors. I love that it’s the largest open-air food market in the United States, providing an incredible diversity of tastes from around the world.
You can find everything from lobster rolls and massive mozzarella sticks to pizza cupcakes, dumplings, and souffle pancakes. It’s a fantastic place to explore different cultures through food and expand your family’s palate. The market is open from April 7th to October 27th, running from 11 am to 6 pm, located at East Drive at Lincoln Road on Breeze Hill. Entry is free, though food purchases vary in price.
Prospect Park Tennis Center
If your family enjoys tennis or wants to give it a try, the Prospect Park Tennis Center is a great facility. I noted that their Indoor Junior Development Program runs from October to May, with various levels available, including a 1-Hour Pee-Wee program for ages 5-6 and longer options for older and more advanced players. They also offer “Special Aces,” a group instruction program specifically for children with special needs, making tennis accessible to everyone.
During the summer, they have a Summer Youth Program and an Outdoor Junior Development Program. Even if you’re not looking for a full program, you can book courts or arrange lessons. The Tennis Center is open daily from 7 am to 11 pm, located at 50 Parkside Ave.
Open Play for Dogs
It’s always nice when pets can enjoy the fun too. Prospect Park offers designated off-leash hours for dogs in areas like Long Meadow, Nethermead, and Peninsula Meadow. I think it’s a great way for furry friends to get plenty of exercise in the green space.
These off-leash hours are typically from 5 am to 9 am and again from 9 pm to 1 am. There’s even a “Dog Beach” for them to swim. Meeting other dog owners through groups like FIDO could also be a nice way to connect with the local community.
Roller Skating at LeFrak Center at Lakeside
Roller skating at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside provides a fun, active way for families to spend time together, suitable for any season. I imagine it’s a wonderful setting for beginners and seasoned skaters alike to enjoy the rink.
The rink is a safe environment for families to skate together, offering a chance to stay active and create memorable moments. They provide skating lessons for all levels, including “Parent & Me” for the littlest ones, and also offer children’s birthday parties. After skating, the Bluestone Cafe is conveniently located nearby for refreshments. Weekday admission is $6, while weekends and holidays are $10, with skate rentals at $7. The rink is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm.
King David Tacos
For a delicious and casual start to your day, I discovered King David Tacos, a female-owned business serving Austin-style breakfast tacos. I’ve read that they use fresh tortillas made in Texas, and Eater New York even recognized them as one of the best breakfasts. It sounds like a perfect stop for an early park visit or a relaxed weekend “brunch.”
Their creative menu includes options like “Mom’s Migas” with scrambled eggs, salsa, tortilla chips, cheese, and jalapeno rajas, and “Or’izo” with Mexican chorizo, potato, egg, and cheese. Even if your children haven’t tried breakfast tacos before, I think these unique and tasty combinations are likely to win them over. They are open Monday to Friday from 7 am to 11 am, Saturday from 7 am to 2 pm, and Sunday from 8 am to 1 pm, located at Grand Army Plaza.
