St. Nicholas Park

St. Nicholas Park spans twelve blocks between 128th and 141st Street and features steep terrain with exposed Manhattan schist rock formations. The grounds include multiple basketball courts, handball facilities, and playgrounds for different activities.

The park was established in 1895 and includes Point of Rocks, where George Washington positioned troops during the 1776 Battle of Harlem Heights. The northern section is home to Alexander Hamilton's former residence, which was relocated here in 2008.

The park is named after Saint Nicholas and reflects the neighborhood's heritage. Visitors can see how the name connects to the area's development and the people who have lived here over generations.

The park is accessible from several subway lines, making arrival straightforward. The steep hills can be challenging to navigate, so visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time for exploring.

The park serves as a natural migration route for monarch butterflies drawn to the numerous butterfly bushes scattered throughout. During migration seasons, visitors can spot hundreds of these orange insects moving through the grounds.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1895

GPS coordinates: 40.81722,-73.94861

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:47