With plenty of benches, trees, a farmers’ market and musicians, Union Square Park is a sweet spot to spend some time. If the flowers aren’t in bloom, there’s usually outdoor art for inspiration. Grab a coffee from nearby The Bean (12th St). Or, when you’re done with your e-mails and Excel spreadsheets, get down with the skateboarders.

Sitting right where the edge of Manhattan meets the water is a lovely way to pass time. Come for the cool breezes, outdoor concerts, movies and explore Castle Clinton. Grab lunch to go from nearby Cafe 11 and dine al fresco.

During the spring, this beautiful park is full of blooms. Its close proximity to the Flatiron Building also offers visitors one of the most iconic views of the city. At summer’s end, stay late and watch the U.S. Open on the big outdoor screen. Nearby eats: Shake Shack tops the list, and Live Bait is a fun bet for post-work cocktails.

Most people are familiar with Joyce Kilmer’s poem Trees–but fewer people know, despite the feminine-sounding name, that Kilmer was actually a man. Not only was he a poet and a journalist, he was also a solider. During WWI, he was killed in action on the Western Front. This lovely park was named for him in 1926.

Clove Park is full of lakes, ponds, sports fields and history. The park is famous for its 300-year-old tulip tree and its beautiful green-colored serpentine rocks. Nearby Lake Club serves up fresh bites.

Astoria Park has many charms. It has the city’s largest and oldest pool. Its summer carnival has rides and those games where you win stuffed animals. And you can’t beat those exquisite views of the East River.

Located right under one of the most glorious bridges in the city, Brooklyn Bridge Park is expanding. WiFi is available on the waterfront promenade of Pier 1, Pier 6, the Empire Fulton Ferry and Main Street. While you’re there, don’t miss Jane’s Carousel. Beautifully restored by Jane Walentas, it’s one of the finest carousels in the country, housed in a stunning pavilion designed by architect Jean Nouvel.