Bella Abzug Park

Location and Development

Tucked between the gleaming towers of Manhattan's Hudson Yards neighborhood, Bella Abzug Park offers a refreshing patch of green amid the urban landscape. This space stretches across several blocks between 10th and 11th Avenues, from West 33rd to West 36th Street.

The park emerged as part of the broader Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project, adding green space to this rapidly developing corner of New York City. Open from 6AM to 11PM daily, you can visit whether for a morning coffee or an evening stroll.

The uniquely shaped Vessel structure is located right next to the park

Photo: timeyres (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Namesake and Design

The park honors Bella Abzug, a fierce feminist, civil rights champion, accomplished lawyer, and U.S. Representative who made her mark advocating for women's rights and civil liberties. The design comes from Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates Inc., who created an environmentally conscious space that differs from many other city parks.

The park's design integrates with the surrounding skyscrapers, creating a space that feels both sheltered from and connected to the urban environment around it.

Park Features

The park unfolds across three distinct sections, each with its own character and offerings. Throughout the space, you can find carefully selected plantings, trees, and flower beds that bring natural beauty and seasonal change to the concrete jungle.

One feature to note is the collection of innovative water fountains that can sense wind speeds and automatically shut off during gusty conditions to conserve water and prevent spraying. On warm days, these fountains become a magnet for kids splashing about in delight.

When you need to rest your feet, you'll discover plenty of benches and seating areas scattered throughout, some complete with tables and umbrellas for a comfortable outdoor lunch or work session. There are public restrooms at the northeast corner - a useful amenity when exploring the area.

Families will appreciate the rope climbing structure and play equipment set on soft, protective surfaces. While not huge, the play area offers enough entertainment for children roughly 4-12 years old to burn off some energy while parents take a breather.

Community Impact and Activities

The park attracts a mix of residents, office workers, and tourists who use the space to relax. The design includes areas for active recreation alongside quieter spots for sitting and relaxing.

The park hosts various community events, particularly during warmer months. Thursday evenings bring Vinyl Nights with DJs spinning tunes for impromptu dance parties under the open sky. You might also catch free movie screenings, sound baths, or cultural celebrations like salsa dancing that add rhythm and color to the neighborhood.

Bella Abzug Park adds green space to this formerly industrial district. It offers a break from the busy city surroundings.

Accessibility and Surroundings

The park is easily accessible - the 7 subway line stops nearby, making it a convenient meeting point when exploring the area. If you're visiting The Vessel, shopping at Hudson Yards, or walking The High Line, the park offers an excellent pause in your adventures.

During the holidays, especially Christmas, the park dresses up with special decorations and lights that add to its charm and create a festive atmosphere. Its Manhattan location makes it a good place to rest while exploring the city.