Updated: July 1, 2024
Proclaiming July as Park and Recreation Month is an opportunity for your community and local leadership to officially acknowledge the importance of parks and recreation and the benefits it provides to the people [they] serve. — National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
Park and Recreation Month 2024: Where You Belong
For nearly 40 years, we have celebrated Park and Recreation Month in July to promote building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. This month is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the more than 160,000 full-time park and recreation professionals — along with hundreds of thousands of part-time and seasonal workers and volunteers — who maintain our country’s local, state and community parks. This year’s theme — “Where You Belong” — celebrates the many ways park and recreation professionals across the country foster a sense of belonging in their community by providing welcoming and inclusive programs, essential services for all ages and abilities, and safe, accessible spaces to build meaningful connections. — National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
Plan a visit to a NYC, NYS or National Park
- NYC Parks
- NYS Parks
- Parks & Trails New York
- National Park Service
- National Recreation and Park Association
- RECREATION.gov
NYC Parks Activities
- NYC Parks Calendar of Events
- Sign up for a weekly guide to NYC’s Parks (click “Get email updates”)
- Fun Facts About NYC’s Parks – Thirteen
Walking Tours
- Bring a picnic. Food is available.
- Ferry cost $5 per person round trip. Rent bikes or bring your own.
- Spectacular views of NY harbor and the Statue of Liberty
- Things to do
- Events
- Choose from local food vendors for an evening of great eating
- Music performances
- Guided tours and walks
- Free entertainment
Types of Parks, Designs, and Features – Digital Public Library of America
Things to Do – Central Park Conservancy
Activities & Resources – New York Restoration Project
Why New York State Parks & Historic Sites Matter – Parks and Trails New York
Summerstage – CityParks Foundation
LGBTQ+ History at 5 National Parks – National Parks Conservation Association
NY State Parks
- In NYC
- On Long Island
- In the Westchester/Taconic area
- Sign up for NYS Parks, Recreation and Preservation email updates
Articles on the Health Benefits of Parks
National Recreation and Parks Association
Why Parks and Recreation are Essential Public Services
Parks and Improved Mental Health and Quality of Life
The Health Benefits of Small Parks and Green Spaces
National Parks Service
Mental Benefits of the National Parks
The One Health Concept
Guidelines to Enjoy the Sounds of Nature – Leave No Trace
The Importance of Green Spaces in an Increasingly Gray World – Sustainable Earth