I think I’ve found my favourite park in New York: Socrates Sculpture Park.

As well as giving plenty of green space, the park in Astoria, Queens exhibits sculptures and multimedia installations. Nearly 30 years ago, a sculptor wanted to build the park on what was then a former landfill, and a group of artists and local youngsters helped him. It was declared an official park in 1998. The space isn’t huge, but it’s dotted with large, bizarre art installations that you can browse or kids can clamber over.

Ryan and I headed there this morning with the intention of going on a tour. But after stopping for a breakfast sandwich and getting stuck in traffic, we missed it. We weren’t that fussed though because it meant we could walk around at our own pace.

The park is right on the East River but it’s in Queens, which means that rather than overlooking Manhattan, it faces Roosevelt Island. Not the prettiest of views, but I’ve seen enough of the Lower Manhattan skyline recently, so it was interesting to look at a different part of the city. We checked it out from some deck chairs before wandering around.

There was also a farmers’ market on, as well as a cute little coffee shop beneath a tent in the middle of the grass. Oh, and an assault course!

What I liked about the art is that while the pieces are perfect for kids to interact with, they’re also interesting for adults… and ones who act like kids…

Check it out!