Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor passing through, America’s sprawling city parks are havens for those seeking a place to jog, stroll, ride a bicycle, row a boat, or simply enjoy a picnic under the shade of a tree. But while most of us are familiar with the country’s largest, such as Central Park in New York or Grant Park in Chicago, there’s a slew of others to discover. Explore our roundup of the smallest, prettiest parks in the U.S.
Tongva Park - Santa Monica, California
You’ll find this cute park just a short stroll from Los Angeles’s iconic Santa Monica Pier. Spread over six acres, Tongva Park’s topography reflects the natural landscape, with paths that mimic the fluid shapes of the area’s creeks and ravines. Native planting, including several impressive fig trees, enhances that connection and improves sustainability. The park is not just a beautiful destination — it’s also a community amenity, with play equipment, picnic areas, and a summer splash pad included amidst the sculptures and plants.
Meridian Hill/Malcolm X Park - Washington DC
Inspired by the gardens of Italy’s historic villas, this pretty park straddles the neighborhoods of Columbia Heights and Adams Morgan in Washington D.C. Italian landscape architect Ferrucio Vitale was initially responsible for the planting in this 12-acre space, helping soften the balustrades, benches, and statues to create a verdant city oasis. The centerpiece is a glorious terraced fountain cascade — one of the longest in the country — which tumbles into a reflecting pool. Known to locals as Malcolm X Park since a landmark 1969 rally, this park was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1994.
Little Island - New York, New York
Little Island, built on quirky, curvaceous supports, extends out over the Hudson River in NYC. This park combines art and nature to breathe new life into the NYC coastline, which was once badly damaged by Hurricane Sandy. Winding paths lead to carefully curated views that frame the cityscape, while architectural grasses, shrubs, and trees frame colorful flowers. The park also serves as a hub for the arts, hosting events such as creative workshops, comedy and theatre performances, live music, and dance parties. Within a year of opening in 2021, Little Island received more than a million visitors — and it remains an incredibly popular part of the New York landscape.
Forsyth Park - Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s historic district is filled with pretty squares, but the jewel in its many-studded crown is Forsyth Park. This 30-acre park centers around a gorgeous fountain, similar to ones you’d see in the Place de la Concorde in Paris, France or the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru — but neither of those places boast mature live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, leading visitors right to the park’s spectacular focal point. There’s also an aromatic garden aimed at the visually impaired but enjoyed by anyone who appreciates fragrant blooms. If you’re looking for more reasons to visit, plan on a stroll through the garden, enjoy live music at the outdoor amphitheater, or visit the popular Saturday farmers market.
Kubota Garden - Seattle, Washington
Gardener and philanthropist Fujitaro Kubota began work on this breathtaking Japanese garden almost a century ago. Since 1987, it has been managed by the City of Seattle, who aim to stay faithful to the Kubota family’s vision. Park visitors will find a tranquil space with Japanese elements, such as a waterfall, ponds, bridges, Kasuga lanterns, and thoughtfully placed stones. The hard landscaping is softened by traditional planting, which utilizes Japanese maples and hydrangeas to great aesthetic effect. For added insight into the garden’s history and planting, plan on attending a public tour, offered on the fourth Saturday of every month.
Falls Park on the Reedy - Greenville, South Carolina
Falls Park on the Reedy is a 26-acre park designed by landscape architect Andrea Mains. Trails meander through manicured lawns, beside formal flower beds, and overlooking leafy copses. Throughout the park, historic markers tell the story of Greenville. You’ll also encounter the ruins of Richard Pearis’ grist mill, which once ground corn, wheat, and other grains into flour. However, the highlight of any visit is the opportunity to admire one of Greenville’s most impressive natural landmarks — a multi-drop waterfall on the Reedy River that lends the park its name.
Boston Public Garden - Boston, Massachusetts
Boston Public Garden, located adjacent to Boston Commons, is a distinct and special green space. It’s the oldest public botanical garden in the U.S., dating all the way back to the 1830s. Back then, some considered its bold and colorful floral displays to be garish, but they’ve stood the test of time — as have the iconic swan boats that populate the park’s lake, the oldest of which has been in use for 110 years.
