Bowling Green Is The Oldest Park In New York City

Located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, Bowling Green is the oldest park in New York City. It dates all the way back to 1733! Even before that, the location of the park has been witness to plenty of history. And it’s still standing today! The location of the park tracks New York City’s many changes over the centuries. It’s provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history. To learn more about this historic site, keep reading, below.

Many consider the park’s location to have acted as a council ground for Native American tribes. It was also the site of the important sale of Manhattan to the Dutch colonial governor Peter Minuit in 1626.

Before it was a park, the site of Bowling Green was used as a parade ground, a meeting place, and a cattle market. In 1686, it was deemed a public property.

After the location was demarcated as a park in 1773, it was renovated—grass, trees and fences were planted and erected. A gilded lead statue of King George was installed in 1771 and then destroyed by angry citizens in 1776.

In the late 18th century, Bowling Green was one of the hallmarks of New York’s most fancy residential districts.

In the 20th century, the park changed once again. It was refurbished during a larger program of improvements made by the city before the 1939 World’s Fair.

A renovation in 1976 and 1977 brought Bowling Green back to its classic 18th-century look and feel. The park’s central fountain was given to the city by the philanthropist George Delacorte.

In December 1989, the sculptor Arturo DiModica’s iconic Charging Bull statue was erected at the north end of the park. In 2004, there was yet enough reconstruction of the park. Much like New York City as a whole, Bowling Green has seen a lot of changes!

Bowling Green is truly one of the most historic parks in all of New York State. It’s worth a visit, to say the least! While in New York City, why not go across the bridge to Brooklyn and have a great meal at Peter Luger, which we think is the best steakhouse in New York City, if not in the entire state of New York. And for those looking for a place to stay around Bowling Green, we recommend AC Hotel by Marriott, New York, Downtown.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Explore New York

Featured Addresses

Bowling Green, PX3P+XG, New York, NY 10004, USA

A Little-Known Slice Of New York History Can Be Found At This Park

John Williams

Author

Related Stories

The Incredible World's Fair Site In New York That Has Been Left In Ruins

A Little-Known Slice Of New York History Can Be Found At This Church

This Easy 1.8-Mile Trail In New York Is Covered In Flower Blooms In The Springtime

Want more New York in your inbox?

Related Articles

Explore New York

Featured Addresses