Carl Schurz Park with NYC Kids: Things to Do in the Upper East Side Park
Submitted by Stephanie Ogozalek on
Carl Schurz Park on Manhattan's Upper East Side is a jewel of an urban green space. Nestled between East End Avenue and the East River, the 15-acre waterfront park runs six city blocks. While it can't match the UES' other big green space, Central Park, in size, Carl Schurz does feature lovely arched bridges; wide, paved pathways; flower-filled gardens; lush landscaping; an iconic statue and one perpetually busy playground.
It's not surprising that Carl Schurz has so much in common with Central Park: It was masterminded in 1902 by none other than Calvert Vaux (part of the duo that created Central and Prospect Parks). And Carl Schurz has one attraction no other NYC park will ever have: the historic Gracie Mansion, which is usually home to New York City's seated mayor. (Our current mayor, Michael Bloomberg, opted to stay in his swanky private residence.)
In addition to a wealth of amenities and attractions, the opulent park hosts a number of awesome annual family events like an Easter egg hunt, Halloween Howl and a holiday tree lighting, all organized by the hard-working Carl Schurz Park Conservancy. But you don't need to wait for a special event to visit: There are plenty of things to do in Carl Schurz Park on any day.