Boasting history, natural beauty and playgrounds galore, the expansive Van Cortlandt Park makes a perfect summer day trip for city families who don’t want to stray too far. Located in the Bronx and spanning 1,146 acres, Van Cortlandt Park dates back to 1888 and is the fourth largest park in New York City. It’s also home to the country’s first public golf course, the oldest house in the Bronx, and the largest freshwater lake in the borough.
With all the lush gardens and spectacular trees, it would be a shame not to go exploring. Take advantage of one of the park’s five different hiking trails; all the trails are from 1 to 1.5 miles and vary in difficulty. Start off easy with the Putnam Trail, which takes you through the native hardwood forest, or challenge yourself with the Cass Gallagher Nature Trail.
Energetic little ones will flip for any one of the park’s four playgrounds. All four come equipped with play equipment with safety surfacing, but each play space features a little something special as well. The Sachkerah Woods Playground is made to resemble a golf course, complete with green concrete resembling a putting green and a spray shower made to look like a 19th hole flag. The Classic Playground is great for those looking to hit the courts, offering both handball and basketball courts, plus slides and swings for tots. The Southwest Playground, with its refreshing spray shower and game tables, is a perfect place to cool down and relax. And when all that running makes your little ones hungry, head to The Woodlawn Playground and enjoy lunch in the picnic area or a relaxing ride on the spring seesaws.
Incorporate a little education into your day with a visit to the Van Cortlandt House Museum. Not only is this the city’s first historic house museum, but George Washington stayed here at least twice during the Revolutionary War! Take a step back in time (all the way to the 1750’s!) with a tour of the house, which is filled with historical furniture and other heirlooms.
And as if that’s not enough for one day, why not go horseback riding in an Olympic-sized indoor arena, a outdoor riding ring, or on the nature trails through the Riverdale Equestrian Center? Or go for a swim in one of the park’s two outdoor pools? Or hit the tennis court or jog a few laps around the track?
What’s Happening This Summer At Van Cortlandt Park:
EcoCrafts
July 6–August 24
Every Tuesday this summer, help build a greener earth by turning used junk into new crafts. Recycling has never been so much fun, thanks to this event hosted by Friends of Van Cortlandt Park & Urban Farming.
(Free!) Family Camping
Friday, July 16, 2010
6 p.m.–7 a.m.
Experience the park after dark! Go on a nighttime hike, roast marshmallows around the campfire and cuddle up under the stars in your sleeping bag. The next morning, cook breakfast and watch the sun rise before heading back home! Space is limited, so register early.
