Seward Park
Seward Park is one of the largest parks on the Lower East Side, bounded by Canal, Essex and Jefferson Streets and East Broadway. It is home to the first permanent, city-built playground in the United States.
| Location | Canal Street, Essex Street, Jefferson Street and East Broadway |
|---|---|
| Run by | NYC Parks |
| Nearby | Seward Park Library, 192 East Broadway |
| Website | nycgovparks.org |
What's there
The park has a playground and garden areas cared for by volunteers of the Seward Park Conservancy. NYC Parks runs programs here such as Kids in Motion, staff-led outdoor play for children. The Lower East Side Ecology Center moved into Seward Park in 2022.
History
The park is named for William H. Seward, the New York statesman who arranged the purchase of Alaska in 1867. Its playground was the first permanent playground built by an American city.
For Grand Street co-op residents
Seward Park is the large neighborhood park at the western end of the Grand Street co-ops, close to the Seward Park co-op buildings on Grand Street and East Broadway.
Last checked October 15, 2026. Hours, programs and contacts change, so please confirm directly with Seward Park. Source: nycgovparks.org. Something to add or correct? Tell us.