The Hidden Parks of New York

[N]estled into much of Midtown — especially the East Side — are hidden parks and peaceful spaces generally not visible from the main avenues, and thus easily missed by nonregulars. There, those in the know relax on benches, take in the waterfalls and in one spot, even buy a slice of apple pie.

That apple pie, which tastes homemade but comes from Costco (shhh!), goes for $2.50 a slice in the snack bar tucked into the champion of all Midtown oases, Greenacre Park. Greenacre is in the unlikeliest of locations, considering it was named one of the top parks in the world by the Manhattan-based Project for Public Spaces.

Even if they are lucky enough to happen down the generic block known as East 51st Street between Second and Third Avenues, passersby still might miss it or, should they catch a glimpse, think it is a mirage. The hidden park is in such pristine condition that it looks as if it opened last week, although the Greenacre Foundation, founded by Abby Rockefeller Mauzé, opened it in 1971 and has been maintaining it since.

Branches of honey locust trees dangle overhead, and lush plantings are strategically placed at ground level. There are three levels of comfortable seating, the lower one dominated by a gushing multilevel waterfall. Take one of the tables between it and a shield of bushes behind, and the city beyond vanishes to both your eyes and ears."