Fort Greene Park is a 30-acre public park in Brooklyn, at DeKalb Avenue and South Portland Avenue. Brooklyn’s first designated park, it combines sloping lawns and mature trees with playgrounds, sports courts and paths. Its central landmark is the Prison Ship Martyrs’ Monument, a memorial to American prisoners who died during the Revolutionary War. Come to see the monument, take a walk beneath the trees or spread a blanket on the grass. The park also hosts community programs and events.
From military ground to public park
The land now occupied by Fort Greene Park was once the site of forts built during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. After the War of 1812 threat passed, the surrounding community began using the area as public space. In 1847, it became Brooklyn’s first designated park.
Walt Whitman, then editor of the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, supported the park’s creation. In 1896, landscape designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux reshaped its rugged terrain. The park’s rolling ground, open lawns and mature trees remain central to its character.
The Prison Ship Martyrs’ Monument
The monument is the park’s main historical landmark. It commemorates American prisoners who died aboard British prison ships during the Revolutionary War. The remains of thousands of prisoners are associated with the site, and the memorial gives the park a solemn purpose alongside its everyday recreational use.
The structure includes a broad granite staircase and a tall central Doric column. The monument is illuminated at night. Its interior stairs are closed to the public, so plan to view it from outside and leave time to walk around the surrounding grounds. Keep noise low in the memorial area as a courtesy.
Paths, recreation and community events
Away from the monument, the park has paths, benches, playgrounds, ornamental plantings and open lawns. Families can use the play areas, while basketball and tennis courts, ball fields and other recreational spaces provide room for sports. The hills are noticeable along some routes, so allow extra effort if you prefer level paths.
The park is also used for picnics, dog walking and community gatherings. Dogs are allowed, with designated off-leash hours; follow the posted rules. Programs and events include family activities, volunteer days and festivals. A year-round farmers market is held at the park on Saturdays, with local and regional produce and other food products. Check current park and market information before planning your visit around a specific event.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Fort Greene Park free to visit?
Yes. It is a public park, and there is no admission fee.
What is the main landmark in Fort Greene Park?
The Prison Ship Martyrs’ Monument commemorates American prisoners who died during the Revolutionary War. Its interior stairs are closed to the public.
Are dogs allowed in Fort Greene Park?
Yes. Dogs are welcome, and off-leash access is limited to designated hours. Follow posted leash rules and clean up after your dog.
Is there a farmers market at Fort Greene Park?
A year-round farmers market is held at the park on Saturdays. Check current information before visiting for the market.
