Damrosch Park

Where Culture Comes Alive

Tucked between Amsterdam Avenue and West 62nd Street in Manhattan's Lincoln Square neighborhood sits Damrosch Park, a 2.4-acre piece of urban tranquility. This compact space is nestled within the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts complex, just south of the Metropolitan Opera House and west of the David H. Koch Theater.

Named after the Damrosch family - notable composers and conductors who shaped America's musical landscape - this park carries on their artistic legacy since its 1969 completion. There's a bit of important history here too: in 1986, Damrosch Park hosted the very first AIDS Walk New York, which has grown into the world's largest single-day AIDS fundraiser.

What You'll Find Here

The park features the Guggenheim Bandshell, an outdoor stage that has hosted many performances since the late '60s. Whether you're catching a summer concert or a cultural festival, this iconic venue creates an intimate atmosphere for experiencing live arts.

In 2016, the park got a thoughtful facelift courtesy of Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects, who managed to honor its mid-century modern roots while making it more functional for today's visitors. The clean, uncluttered design features a soothing water element that provides a welcome respite from city noise.

Practical amenities haven't been overlooked either - you'll come across clean restrooms including accessible facilities, and the grounds are well-maintained year-round, making it comfortable for both quick visits and longer stays during events.

When The Park Comes Alive

Damrosch Park hosts a rotating calendar of events that showcase New York's artistic diversity. From the Lincoln Center Festival to Lincoln Center Out of Doors, the space fills with music spanning classical, jazz, and even hip-hop performances.

Summer evenings feature Summer in the City programming, where you can catch free movies under the stars. The park regularly plays host to Broadway showcases and cultural celebrations - including recent events marking the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop.

Perhaps most famously, Damrosch Park transforms each season into the home of the Big Apple Circus. When the big tent goes up, families gather for shows featuring impressive acrobatics and heartwarming entertainment that appeals to all ages.

Beyond the performances and events, this urban space provides a moment of green amid the cultural bustle of Lincoln Center, where you can take a break and enjoy the surroundings.