When you think of New York, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Perhaps it’s pizza, the Statue of Liberty, or the “City that Never Sleeps.” Maybe it’s the “Big Apple” or “Concrete Jungle.” Regardless of what comes to mind, there’s no doubt that it’s an unforgettable city sprinkled with hidden gems buried within. Let’s explore two of these remarkable gems that will entice you to explore New York City.

Your first stop should be the legendary Prospect Park, located in the heart of Brooklyn New York. The massive pillars at the entrance provide a glimpse of what awaits inside. The park is a sanctuary filled with wildlife and trees, beautiful architecture, and historical sculptures and statues.

Matthew Rutledge/Flickr

The 526-acres of the immaculate grounds are also filled with serene waterfalls, ponds and lakes, and wide open grassy areas perfect for picnics, games, or relaxation. How gorgeous is this image of the pond and bridge?

gigi_nyc/Flickr

This captivating fountain is one of the many picturesque structures located inside the park.

Troy Tolley/Flickr

The park has lots of activities for the entire family. Enjoy a day of hiking or horseback riding, paddle boating or ice skating. Perhaps take the kids to the zoo or stop by one of the many ponds to play with the exquisite swans.

simplethrill/Flickr You can feed the swans, or if you prefer, just watch them gracefully swim with the ducks and turtles all day.

The Battle of Brooklyn was fought on a portion of the land inside Prospect Park. Therefore, there are countless historical sites and monuments to see. Be sure to read the plaques with the history of this sanctuary as you explore.

Lou Bueno/Flickr

Once you have indulged in the beauty of the park, take the short half-mile walk to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG), and immerse yourself in this glorious haven.

Niadelina/TripAdvisor

This 52-acre oasis is filled with more than 10 specialty gardens, and the impeccable grounds is home to various types of exotic plants and flowers as well as pollinators and wildlife.

Mark Yokoyama/Flickr

It doesn’t get any more Zen than the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. Do you see those gorgeous cherry blossoms blooming in the back? They are scattered throughout the grounds, but you can find rows of them in the Cherry Esplanade Garden beginning in late April.

Bettycrocker, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The iconic Steinhardt Conservatory is home to the Bonsai museum, an art gallery, and an orchid and tropical plant collection. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden has plenty to explore, and it’s a must-see when you’re in New York City.

Steve Soblick/Flickr

So, what do you think? Would you visit these two hidden gems while in New York City? For more information, visit the websites at: Prospect Park and BBG.org.

Matthew Rutledge/Flickr

gigi_nyc/Flickr

Troy Tolley/Flickr

simplethrill/Flickr

You can feed the swans, or if you prefer, just watch them gracefully swim with the ducks and turtles all day.

Lou Bueno/Flickr

Niadelina/TripAdvisor

Mark Yokoyama/Flickr

Bettycrocker, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Steve Soblick/Flickr

After you’re done exploring, grab a bite to eat at Caffe Buon Gusto. It’s the closest to authentic Italian cuisine you will find in the city.

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Address: Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USAAddress: Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA