Welcome to St Mary's Park in the Bronx
Tucked away in the South Bronx, St Mary’s Park is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This 35-acre park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting recreational activities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or an adventure-seeker, St Mary’s Park has something for everyone.
A Brief History of St Mary's Park
St Mary’s Park has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. The park was originally designed by the renowned landscape architect, John Mullaly, in 1881. Mullaly’s vision was to create a park that would provide a peaceful oasis for the rapidly growing population of the South Bronx. Over the years, the park has undergone several transformations, including a major renovation in the 1930s under the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Natural Beauty and Wildlife
St Mary’s Park is a nature lover’s paradise, with its lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and picturesque lake. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, and even the occasional deer. The park’s lake is a popular spot for fishing, and the surrounding gardens are perfect for picnicking and relaxation.
🌳 Note: St Mary's Park is also a popular spot for bird-watching, with over 20 species of birds documented in the park.
Recreational Activities
St Mary’s Park offers a range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park has several playgrounds, including a state-of-the-art playground for younger children and a skate park for teenagers. The park also has several sports fields, including a baseball diamond, a soccer field, and a basketball court.
- Sports and Fitness: St Mary’s Park has a range of sports facilities, including a baseball diamond, a soccer field, and a basketball court.
- Playgrounds: The park has several playgrounds, including a state-of-the-art playground for younger children and a skate park for teenagers.
- Walking and Hiking: The park has several scenic walking paths, including a 1.5-mile walking trail that takes you through the park’s beautiful gardens and lake.
Community Events and Programs
St Mary’s Park is a hub of community activity, with a range of events and programs throughout the year. The park hosts several festivals and concerts during the summer months, including the popular St Mary’s Park Summer Concert Series. The park also offers a range of educational programs, including nature walks, bird-watching tours, and environmental education programs.
- Summer Concert Series: The park hosts a popular summer concert series, featuring live music from local and national artists.
- Festivals and Fairs: The park hosts several festivals and fairs throughout the year, including the St Mary’s Park Festival and the Bronx Festival.
- Educational Programs: The park offers a range of educational programs, including nature walks, bird-watching tours, and environmental education programs.
Getting There and Getting Around
St Mary’s Park is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and subway lines nearby. The park is also bike-friendly, with several bike lanes and bike racks throughout the park.
- By Bus: The park is accessible by several bus lines, including the Bx19, Bx17, and Bx27.
- By Subway: The park is accessible by the 6 train, with the nearest subway station at St Mary’s Street.
- By Bike: The park is bike-friendly, with several bike lanes and bike racks throughout the park.
As the sun sets on St Mary’s Park, the park takes on a serene and peaceful quality, perfect for relaxation and contemplation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or an adventure-seeker, St Mary’s Park is a must-visit destination in the Bronx.
What are the park’s hours of operation?
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The park is open from 6am to 1am, 365 days a year.
Is the park accessible by public transportation?
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Yes, the park is accessible by several bus and subway lines, including the Bx19, Bx17, Bx27, and the 6 train.
Are there any amenities available in the park?
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Yes, the park has several amenities, including restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables.
