Leif Ericson Park

A Slice of Viking History in Brooklyn

Located in Brooklyn lies Leif Ericson Park, a 21-acre green haven named after the famed Norse explorer. Officially dedicated in 1925, the park stands as a leafy tribute to the once-thriving Norwegian community that called this neighborhood home.

The legendary Parks Commissioner Robert Moses put his stamp on the park's design in 1934-35. Look closely and you'll spot delightful Norse-inspired touches throughout - whimsical troll statues and columns that mimic the distinctive turrets of Norway's famous stave church of Borgund.

The park's Norwegian connection deepened in 1939 when Crown Prince Olav of Norway (who later became King Olav V) dedicated a monument to Leif Ericson at the Fourth Avenue entrance. The monument features two bronze, rune-stone-shaped relief tablets mounted on granite - a little piece of Norway right in Brooklyn. Even today, the park honors its roots by functioning as the finale point for the annual Norwegian Day Parade.

Modern Makeovers

The park was redesigned in 2009, enhancing its Viking theme with Viking ship-themed play equipment for children.

A year later, the local eyesore known as the "dust bowl" transformed into something special - a multi-purpose synthetic turf field complete with misting stations and lights for evening recreation. This revamped area earned the charming name Quaker Parrot Park at the Dustbowl, paying homage to the Argentine birds that have made Brooklyn their surprising home over recent decades.

What You'll Find There

Leif Ericson Park stretches across several blocks from Fourth Avenue to Fort Hamilton Parkway, offering something for just about everyone. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the tennis courts (which also welcome pickleball players), multiple basketball courts (three full and two half courts), volleyball courts, and a baseball field for those neighborhood games.

Families with little ones will appreciate the well-designed playgrounds featuring all the classics - swings, slides, and monkey bars. The Viking-themed play equipment connects playtime to the park's cultural heritage.

The park's layout remains largely faithful to its 1930s origins, with updates made over the years to address the community's changing needs. Throughout the space, you'll come across plenty of benches and open areas excellent for catching your breath or catching up with friends.

Community Living Room

Leif Ericson Park is a green gathering space for Brooklyn's wonderfully diverse community. On any given day, you'll see visitors from all backgrounds - Asian, Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and more - enjoying this shared outdoor space.

The open grassy areas provide a wonderful setting for impromptu picnics and casual meet-ups. Beyond organized sports, many come simply to take a peaceful walk, get in some exercise, or claim a bench beneath the shade of the park's mature trees.

Restrooms are available but note that they close at 4 PM, while the park itself welcomes visitors from 6 AM to 1 AM daily.