Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all New York City places

New York City, New York / Parks and outdoors

Washington Market Park

A 1.61-acre community sanctuary in TriBeCa, Washington Market Park blends athletic courts, inclusive playgrounds, and lush garden plots, serving as a vital green escape in Lower Manhattan.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Washington Market Park
www.washingtonmarketpark.org, og_image_www.washingtonmarketpark.org

Where is Washington Market Park located?

It is an urban park located in the TriBeCa neighborhood of Lower Manhattan, New York City, bounded by Greenwich, Chambers, and West Streets.

What are the hours for Washington Market Park?

The park is open daily from 7 a.m. until dusk. However, the playground facilities have specific hours from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

What facilities and activities are available at the park?

The park features tennis and basketball courts (including full and half-court options), 60 community garden plots, a lawn, a gazebo, and a Little Free Library. It also has three playgrounds, including one shaped like a ship called 'S.S. Fun!'.

Is Washington Market Park good for kids?

Yes, it is a popular destination for children, featuring three playgrounds designed for varying ages, a ship-shaped play area, and sensory-friendly spaces for children with autism spectrum disorders.

Is the park accessible?

Yes, the playground is wheelchair accessible and includes a wheelchair-accessible public restroom and accessible drinking fountains.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Washington Market Park is an urban oasis located in the TriBeCa neighborhood of Lower Manhattan, bounded by Greenwich, Chambers, and West Streets. The park takes its name from the historic Washington Market, which served as New York City's most critical wholesale produce market during its peak between 1880 and 1910. While the market itself dates back to around 1812, the current green space was designed by architect Lee Weintraub and built in the late 1970s using a federally funded Community Block Development Grant. Opening in April 1983, the park was born from the efforts of community activists and is overseen by the not-for-profit Washington Market Community Park, Inc., established in 1978. Today, the 1.61-acre site is a hub of local activity, featuring a tennis court and both full-court and half-court basketball areas. It also houses 60 community garden plots tended by local residents, a gazebo, and a Little Free Library for visitors to browse. Families are particularly drawn to the park's three playgrounds, which are designed for children of varying ages. One standout feature is the S.S. Fun!, a play area shaped like a ship. To ensure inclusivity, the playground facilities include sensory-friendly spaces for children with autism spectrum disorders, wheelchair-accessible public restrooms, and accessible drinking fountains. Beyond its physical amenities, the park is a center for neighborhood bonding. The Friends of Washington Market Park organize free community events throughout the year, such as movie nights, concerts, and gardening days. For those needing to stay connected while relaxing on the lawn, free Wi-Fi is provided courtesy of the Borough of Manhattan Community College.

Visitor tips

  • Visit between 7 a.m. and dusk to enjoy the general park grounds.
  • If visiting with children, the playgrounds have extended hours from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • Look for the Little Free Library to swap a book while resting on the lawn.
  • Utilize the free Wi-Fi provided by the Borough of Manhattan Community College if you need to check your map.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of TriBeCa on Greenwich Street, the park sits at the foot of the West Street pedestrian walkway. It serves as a quiet counterpoint to the restructured urban landscape of western TriBeCa, which was heavily developed under the 1962 Washington Street Urban Renewal Plan.

Sources

Evidence and links