Clove Lakes Park

Clove Lakes Park is Staten Island's premier family destination, offering 193 acres of natural beauty and year-round activities. With three scenic lakes, multiple playgrounds, an ice skating rink, paddle boat rentals, and extensive walking trails, this park provides endless entertainment for families looking to spend quality time outdoors without leaving the borough.

• ✓Paddle boat rentals on the scenic lakes during warmer months
• ✓Multiple age-appropriate playgrounds scattered throughout the park
• ✓Ice skating rink for winter fun
• ✓Wildlife watching including ducks, geese, turtles, and various bird species
• ✓Paved walking and biking trails perfect for strollers and young cyclists

1. 1.Arrive early on weekends (by 9 AM) to snag parking spots near your preferred activity area,the lots fill quickly on nice-weather days
2. 2.Bring bread alternatives like oats or birdseed to feed the ducks and geese (bread is unhealthy for waterfowl), and kids will love watching the wildlife up close
3. 3.Pack a picnic and claim one of the shaded pavilion areas near Clove Lake for a full day of fun,there are bathrooms and water fountains nearby
4. 4.The ice skating rink operates winter months only, so call ahead to confirm hours and public skate times before making a special trip
5. 5.Explore the lesser-known Brooks Pond trail on the park's south side for a quieter nature experience away from the main crowds

Spring and fall weekday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the perfect combination of comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and active wildlife. Summer weekends are busiest but great for paddle boating. Winter weekdays are ideal for peaceful walks and ice skating without the weekend rush.

The park is free to enter with ample parking (though it fills on weekends). Paddle boat rentals and ice skating have seasonal fees. There are restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas, but no on-site food vendors, so pack snacks and drinks.

Paddle boats typically operate late spring through early fall (weather dependent). The ice skating rink runs November through March. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms and baby ducklings. Fall foliage is spectacular in October. Some trails may be muddy or icy in winter,dress appropriately.

Stop by Denino's Pizzeria (2.5 miles away) for their famous thin-crust pizza that's been a Staten Island institution since 1937, or grab kid-friendly Mexican fare at Mariachi's (1.5 miles) with a children's menu and casual atmosphere perfect for post-park dining.