Brooklyn , United States

Prospect Park Tour

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(27 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Explore Prospect Park on this 2-hour guided walking tour and learn about historic restoration and environmental preservation work in the Park, including cultural and recreation projects currently underway. This interactive experience explores how Prospect Park has changed over time, from the original vision of designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux to the ways in which the Park is used today. Tours begin at Grand Army Plaza and take visitors through many of the key natural and historic landmarks of the park, including the breathtaking Long Meadow, the innovatively-designed LeFrak Center at Lakeside, and the Ravine, the largest natural forest in Brooklyn. This tour also features a special behind-the-scenes visit to historic sites and features within the park.

These tours are offered by Turnstile Tours on behalf of Prospect Park Alliance, the non-profit organization that sustains, restores, and advances the Park in partnership with New York City.

Available options

Prospect Park Tour

What's included

Knowledgeable and engaging tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Tours begin on the front steps of the Brooklyn Public Library Central Library, located at 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11238. The nearest subway stations are at Grand Army Plaza (2,3) and 7th Av (B,Q).

Our tour will begin at Grand Army Plaza where visitors will see and learn about architecture from the City Beautiful Movement that adorns this grand entrance to the park, including the Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Arch.

Stop 3

Visitors will explore features of the natural and built environments in Prospect Park, including Brooklyn's largest forest, the longest urban meadow in the United States, and various water features, including waterfalls, creeks, and Prospect Park Lake. We'll also see sculptures, memorials, and historic sites, including The Boathouse, Picnic House, and The Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Arch.

This historic structure is home to one of multiple structures in the park that has Guastavino Tiles. Designed by architects Helmle, Huberty, and Hudswell, this 1905 structure was saved from the wrecking ball by activists in the 1960's. Today the Boathouse is home to the Prospect Park Audubon Center, the first audubon center in an urban park in the United States.

Our tour will end at the Lefrak Center at Lakeside, a sustainably designed skating rink and recreational center that faces out onto Prospect Park Lake and a newly restored natural habitat for turtles, fish, and waterfowl.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

26 reviews

5★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. This tour operates rain or shine and involves walking 2 miles/ 3.2 kilometers on foot with a few stops that have places to sit down.

A 10% gratuity for your tour guide is not included but is culturally appropriate and appreciated if you enjoy your tour experience.

With advance notice, this tour can accommodate a wheelchair- and stroller-friendly route. Please contact the company with at least one week's notice.

Meeting point

Prospect Park Tours
Directions: Tours begin on the front steps of the Brooklyn Public Library Central Library, located at 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11238. The nearest subway stations are at Grand Army Plaza (2,3) and 7th Av (B,Q).

Important notes

Socially distancing will be practiced on this tour to ensure the health and safety of all attendees. Please also bring your mask and wear it if asked by our staff to do so. Please note that some of our staff have vulnerable family members at home, and may ask that all attendees wear masks to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Please look for your guide on the steps of the Brooklyn Public Library at Grand Army Plaza.

We strive to provide an accessible and enjoyable experience for all attendees. If you will be using a wheelchair on this tour or would like to request assistive listening devices to provide improved hearing access, please contact us at +1(347)903-8687 at least one week in advance so that we can plan accordingly.

About Brooklyn

Brooklyn, one of New York City's five boroughs, is a vibrant cultural hub known for its diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and thriving arts scene. From the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to the trendy streets of Williamsburg, Brooklyn offers a unique blend of urban energy and local charm.

Top Attractions

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Prospect Park

A large urban park designed by the same architects as Central Park, featuring lakes, wooded areas, and recreational facilities.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Brooklyn Museum

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, housing a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours $16 (general admission), discounts available

Coney Island

A historic amusement area known for its beach, boardwalk, and iconic attractions like the Cyclone roller coaster.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction (some free, some paid)

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

A beautiful 52-acre botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants, themed gardens, and seasonal displays.

Nature 1-2 hours $20 (general admission), discounts available

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-Style Pizza

Thin, large slices with a crispy crust and tangy tomato sauce, often topped with pepperoni or other classic toppings.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, but not typically vegan or gluten-free.

Pastrami on Rye

A classic deli sandwich featuring thick slices of pastrami on rye bread, often served with mustard and pickles.

Lunch Not vegetarian or vegan, but can be made gluten-free with specific bread requests.

Bagels and Lox

Freshly baked bagels topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often accompanied by capers, red onion, and tomatoes.

Breakfast Not vegetarian or vegan, but vegetarian lox alternatives are available.

Dessert: Black and White Cookie

A classic New York cookie with half black and half white icing, often found at iconic bakeries like Junior's.

Dessert Vegetarian, but not typically vegan or gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Biking in Prospect Park Kayaking in the East River Hiking in Green-Wood Cemetery Picnicking in Brooklyn Bridge Park Yoga in the park Spa and wellness treatments Visiting museums and galleries Attending theater performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather and various outdoor events, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks, beaches, and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Haitian Creole, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Brooklyn is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in most neighborhoods. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 19 km (12 miles)
LaGuardia Airport • 20 km (12 miles)

By train

Atlantic Terminal, East New York

By bus

Atlantic Bus Terminal, Downtown Brooklyn Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is the most efficient way to get around Brooklyn and connect to other boroughs. It operates 24/7 with various lines serving different neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Williamsburg Park Slope DUMBO Brooklyn Heights Bushwick

Day trips

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

Visit two iconic landmarks in New York Harbor, offering a glimpse into the history of immigration and freedom in the United States.

Coney Island

15 km (9 miles) • Full day

A historic amusement area known for its beach, boardwalk, and iconic attractions like the Cyclone roller coaster.

Green-Wood Cemetery

6 km (4 miles) • Half day

A historic cemetery and National Historic Landmark, known for its beautiful landscapes, historic monuments, and scenic views of Manhattan.

Festivals

Brooklyn Folk Festival • April Brooklyn Book Festival • September Brooklyn Pride • June

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge and Prospect Park early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Explore lesser-known neighborhoods like DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, and Park Slope for a more local and authentic experience.
Try local specialties like New York-style pizza, pastrami on rye, and bagels and lox for a true taste of Brooklyn.
Use public transportation like the subway, bus, or Citi Bike to get around the borough efficiently and affordably.
Attend local events and festivals, such as the Brooklyn Folk Festival, Brooklyn Book Festival, and Mermaid Parade, for a unique and memorable experience.