Washington Market Park050

A really breath-taking little jewel, this three-acre mini-park offers an eye-catching (very red) playground on its eastern edge. No swings, but plenty of padded run-around space, a sprinkler-system made of what appear to be ice cream scoops for warm months, and good climbing structures for specific age groups (youngest on the north end, oldest on the south).

On the southern perimeter there's a gazebo that might inspire budding actresses to relive Liesl's big scene in The Sound of Music.

Washington Market also has a basketball court and a tennis court just west of the gated green area.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Tribeca Greenmarket sets up right next door.

The Friends of Washington Market Park's Family Concert Series takes place on Thursdays at 6pm from mid-June through the end of July.