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Free Things to Do with Kids in Brooklyn Heights & Dumbo (Parks, Playgrounds & Waterfront Views)

Are you looking for fun, free activities to enjoy with your kids in Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo? You’re in luck! This vibrant area is packed with beautiful parks, engaging playgrounds, and breathtaking waterfront views that are sure to delight the whole family.

From expansive green spaces where your little ones can run and play, to charming spots perfect for a picnic, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you want to visit play areas busy with kids or simply take a stroll along the waterfront, Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo offer a variety of free experiences tailored to entertain and engage children of all ages.

Pier 6 Playground
Pier 6 Playground

15 Bridge Park Dr.

Great for families with young and active kids. Energy level is high with plenty of outdoor play options. ## What kids can do - Explore multiple playgrounds including Water Lab at Pier 6, and Slide Mountain at Pier 6. - Engage with innovative climbing structures and imaginative water features. - Participate in soccer games and volleyball at designated courts. - Visit the Environmental Education Center. - Enjoy biking, roller skating, fishing, and birding opportunities. Kayaking and ice skating are also options. ## Need to know - Parking: Limited; public transport is recommended.

Pier 1 Playground
Pier 1 Playground

102 Furman Street

One of the main playgrounds in Brooklyn Bridge Park with climbing structures and swings; centrally located and easy to access.

Main Street Park
Main Street Park

Plymouth Street

Park in Dumbo with playground access and open space; located right by the Manhattan Bridge with room to run and explore.

Empire Fulton Ferry Park
Empire Fulton Ferry Park

1 Water Street

Open lawn with views of the Brooklyn Bridge; good for picnics and letting kids move around without needing equipment.

Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach

65 Plymouth Street

Small sandy area along the waterfront; not for swimming but kids can play near the water and watch boats.

Jane’s Carousel (exterior area)
Jane’s Carousel (exterior area)

Dock Street

Carousel rides are paid, but the surrounding glass pavilion and plaza are free to explore and often used as a quick stop.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Pierrepont Place

Elevated walkway with river views and plenty of space for strollers and scooters; no playground but easy for walking.

Columbus Park (Cadman Plaza Park)
Columbus Park (Cadman Plaza Park)

Cadman Plaza East

Park with a playground and open space; useful when staying closer to the Brooklyn Heights side.

Hillside Dog Park & Playground
Hillside Dog Park & Playground

Vine Street

Small playground tucked near the promenade; less crowded and good for quick visits.

New York Public Library - Brooklyn Heights Branch
New York Public Library - Brooklyn Heights Branch

286 Cadman Plaza West

Library with children’s programming and indoor seating; reliable option for bad weather.

New York Public Library - Adams Street Branch
New York Public Library - Adams Street Branch

9 Adams Street

Smaller branch in Dumbo; useful indoor stop when nearby.

Washington Street (Dumbo)
Washington Street (Dumbo)

15 Washington Street

Cobblestone street with views of the Manhattan Bridge; not a play space, but a common walking stop with room to explore.

Fulton Ferry Landing
Fulton Ferry Landing

1 Water Street

Open waterfront area with seating and ferry access; easy place to watch boats and take a break.

Squibb Park Bridge
Squibb Park Bridge

Pedestrian bridge connecting Brooklyn Heights to Brooklyn Bridge Park; adds a bit of novelty for kids walking between areas.