It is officially summer in the city, and there’s no better way to kick off the season than by having a barbecue. While most New Yorkers don’t have the outdoor space (or grill, for that matter) to host a cookout at home, there are plenty of parks that offer beautiful picnic areas and public grills to gather around with family and friends. And thankfully for those traveling with little ones, many of these parks are near our favorite playgrounds.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite locations in the five boroughs where you can plan a cookout. If a day of sun and fun hasn't tuckered everyone out, stick around after dark to check out these FREE outdoor movies in NYC.