Prospect Park, with its 585 acres of grassy land, forest, and waters, is one of Brooklyn's most rewarding attractions. Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead and Calvert Vaux (the same architects responsible for Manhattan's Central Park), Prospect Park provides a much needed respite from the hustle and bustle of Brooklyn life. The park also hosts great events throughout the year and offers recreational and educational activities for Brooklynites of all ages.
Prospect Park LocationProspect Park is bordered by Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Kensington, Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Flatbush Avenue. There are several entrances to the park along Prospect Park West, Prospect Park Southwest, Parkside Avenue, and Ocean Avenue.
The dramatic Grand Army Plaza serves as the park's main entrance and is located at the intersection of Flatbush Avenue, Eastern Parkway, and Prospect Park West. View map.
Prospect Park Basics
- Admission: Free
- Phone: (718) 965-8951
- Official Prospect Park Website
Prospect Park hosts great events throughout the year. Kids will love the annual Halloween carnival and the weekend activities at Lefferts Historic House, and you won't want to miss one of the park's biggest attractions: the annual Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival brings dozens of free music concerts and dance performances to the Bandshell during the summer months. The 2009 Celebrate Brooklyn! line-up includes acts ranging from musician David Byrne to the Brooklyn-based MGMT.
Prospect Park Historic Timeline
- 1776: George Washington's army fights the British on what will one day become Prospect Park's Drive.
- 1866: Olmsted and Vaux submit their plans for the development of Prospect Park. Construction begins.
- 1868: Prospect Park in its early years includes Long Meadow, the Ravine, a lake, and a Dairy (with cows!).
- 1870-1900: The park is formalized, with the erection of Grand Army Plaza. The Boathouse, Tennis House, and Picnic House are built.
- 1935: The Prospect Park Zoo is built, thanks to Parks Commissioner Robert Moses.
- 1939: The Prospect Park Bandshell is built.
- 1960: A new ice skating rink is added to the park's growing number of attractions.
- 1980: After suffering from negligence in the 60's and 70's, Prospect Park's restoration efforts begin.
- 2002: The Audubon Center opens in the Boathouse.
