Clement Clarke Moore Park

For families and residents in New York City, a well-maintained and engaging local park is an absolute treasure. Clement Clarke Moore Park, nestled conveniently at 10th Avenue & W 22nd St, New York, NY 10011, USA, stands out as one of Chelsea's most beloved and frequently visited green spaces. Named after the famed author of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," whose family once owned much of the surrounding land, this neighborhood park offers a vital urban oasis for children and caregivers alike. It's a place where laughter echoes, friendships blossom, and the simple joys of outdoor play come alive, perfectly blending with the historic charm of its Chelsea setting.

Recently renovated, Clement Clarke Moore Park has been transformed into a modern, spacious, and incredibly fun destination, as echoed by glowing reviews from those who visit it daily. "Clean, spacious, and fun. Swing set with various types of swings, climbing area for younger kids and one for older kids. Fountain area for the summer," raves one satisfied parent. This park is not just a playground; it’s a thoughtfully designed environment that caters to a wide range of ages and activities, ensuring that there’s always something to capture the imagination of its young visitors. From updated swings to climbing areas and a refreshing summer spray shower, it’s a year-round haven for active play and community connection right in the heart of Chelsea.

Clement Clarke Moore Park is ideally situated at the corner of 10th Avenue and West 22nd Street in the vibrant and charming Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. This prime location places it within easy reach for local residents and visitors exploring this dynamic part of New York City. The park is nestled amidst a mix of residential buildings, art galleries, and local businesses, giving it a true neighborhood feel while still being well-connected to broader city attractions.

Its central Chelsea location means it's incredibly accessible by various modes of public transportation, a key convenience for New Yorkers. The nearest subway stations, generally within a comfortable walking distance, include:

• C and E lines at 23rd Street and 8th Avenue (approximately 5-7 minute walk)
• 1 line at 23rd Street and 7th Avenue (approximately 10-12 minute walk)
• A, C, E lines at 14th Street and 8th Avenue (approximately 10-15 minute walk)

Several cross-town bus routes, such as the M23, run along 23rd Street and provide direct access to the park's vicinity. Additionally, the park is just a short stroll from other popular Chelsea destinations, including the High Line elevated park (with an entrance at 23rd Street), Chelsea Market, and the Chelsea Piers waterfront complex, making it an excellent stop to combine with other neighborhood explorations. The flat terrain of the streets in this part of Chelsea makes walking to the park pleasant and easy for families with strollers or young children. Its accessibility ensures that locals from across Manhattan and even Brooklyn or Queens can easily plan a visit to this beloved community space.

Clement Clarke Moore Park, as a public playground managed by the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, offers a range of services and amenities specifically designed to support children's play and community enjoyment. While it's a neighborhood park, its thoughtful features contribute significantly to the quality of life for families in the area.

• Playground Facilities: The park features distinct play areas catering to different age groups, including equipment for younger children and more challenging structures for older kids.
• Swing Sets: Includes a variety of swings, often featuring traditional swings and accessible swings for children with mobility challenges, as noted in reviews.
• Summer Spray Shower/Water Feature: A popular amenity during warmer months, providing a refreshing water play area for children.
• Benches and Seating Areas: Ample seating is available for parents and caregivers to relax while supervising children. Some benches are accessible with space for wheelchair users.
• Accessible Play Elements: The playground is designed with accessibility in mind, offering ground-level play features, mobility transfer systems, and accessible swings for various age ranges.
• Inclusive Play Elements: Features like sensory-friendly spaces and multi-sensory play experiences (auditory, tactile, visual) are incorporated for children with sensory impairments.
• Accessible Drinking Fountains: Ensuring hydration is easily available for all visitors.
• Community-Provided Toys: Many local users mention that various toys are often left out in the park by the community, enhancing the play experience for children.
• Gardens and Greenery: Well-kept flower beds and trees provide a pleasant, green environment and often offer shade, especially in the front area.
• Public Restrooms: While some neighborhood parks lack them, Clement Clarke Moore Park does NOT have public restrooms on-site. Visitors should plan accordingly, utilizing nearby cafes or public facilities.
• Park Hours: Generally open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during the warmer months (March 2 – Oct. 31) and 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during colder months (Nov. 1 – March 1).

Clement Clarke Moore Park stands out in the Chelsea landscape with several key features and highlights that make it a beloved destination for local families and a welcoming green space for the community.

• Recently Renovated Playground: A major highlight is its modern, state-of-the-art playground. A $1.5 million renovation completed in 2019 brought updated equipment, new spray showers, and improved infrastructure, making it a clean, spacious, and highly functional play area.
• Dedicated Play Zones for Different Ages: The park intelligently separates play areas, offering distinct climbing structures and activities for both younger children (toddlers/preschoolers) and older kids. This ensures safer play and caters to varying developmental stages.
• Excellent Swing Selection: Reviewers often praise the "various types of swings" available, including updated and very nice swings, likely encompassing traditional, bucket, and accessible swings, providing options for all children.
• Summer Spray Shower (Fountain Area): A highly popular feature during the warmer months, the integrated spray shower allows children to cool off and engage in refreshing water play, transforming the park into a summer delight.
• Accessible Design: The park is designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring accessible play elements like ground-level features, mobility transfer systems, and accessible swings, ensuring children of varying abilities can enjoy the space.
• Lush Greenery and Shaded Areas: Despite being a city park, Clement Clarke Moore Park offers plenty of green space, including well-maintained flower beds and a tree canopy, particularly in the front area, providing welcome shade during sunny days.
• Community-Driven Atmosphere: The park often benefits from community involvement, with residents and the Clement Clarke Moore/Seal Park Garden Club actively planting and maintaining flower beds. The presence of shared toys left out by parents also fosters a strong community feel.
• Prime Chelsea Location: Its address at 10th Avenue & W 22nd Street positions it centrally within the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood, making it easily accessible and a natural gathering point for local families.
• Historic Name: The park is named after Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863), the scholar and poet best known for writing "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," adding a touch of literary history to the local experience. The West 400 Block Association even holds Christmastime readings of the poem here.

As a public park managed by the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, Clement Clarke Moore Park does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a business would. Its access is free and open to the public during its operating hours. The primary "benefit" is the free and accessible recreational space it provides to the community.

However, New Yorkers can take advantage of various free programs and community-led initiatives that often take place within the park or are facilitated by local organizations. These informal "offers" enhance the park experience:

• Free Outdoor Play Equipment: As noted by local users, the community often contributes by leaving out toys for children to share, which can be a wonderful, informal "service" that enriches play without any cost.
• Community Events: Local associations, such as the West 400 Block Association, frequently organize free special events at the park, including the annual Christmastime readings of Clement Clarke Moore's famous poem. Keep an eye on local community calendars or neighborhood association announcements for these happenings.
• Gardening and Volunteer Opportunities: The Clement Clarke Moore/Seal Park Garden Club, comprised of local residents, actively maintains the park's flower beds. While not a direct "promotion," participating in or benefiting from these volunteer efforts enriches the park experience for everyone.
• Open Access to Water Play: The spray shower area is completely free to use during the summer months, offering a fantastic and cost-effective way for kids to cool down and have fun.

To stay informed about any community-led events or initiatives at Clement Clarke Moore Park, New Yorkers should consult local Chelsea community boards, neighborhood associations, or the NYC Parks Department's website (nycgovparks.org) which often lists events at various parks.

For inquiries regarding Clement Clarke Moore Park, including its facilities, hours of operation, or general information, you can reach out to the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, which manages this public space.

Park Name: Clement Clarke Moore Park

Address: 10th Avenue & W 22nd St, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 639-9675 (This is a general number for NYC Parks Manhattan Borough Office, or sometimes a specific park's main contact line if one is available. For more detailed inquiries about a specific park, it's often best to call the main NYC Parks number or visit their website.)

Mobile Phone: +1 212-639-9675 (This appears to be the same number, formatted for international dialing.)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including current operating hours, event schedules, and facilities details, it is always recommended to visit the official NYC Parks website:

Website: nycgovparks.org (You can search for "Clement Clarke Moore Park" on their site to find specific details and any relevant alerts).

Additionally, local community boards or neighborhood associations in Chelsea may also have information about park-specific events or initiatives. For instance, Manhattan Community Board 4 (CB4) oversees this area and can be a good resource.

For New Yorkers, Clement Clarke Moore Park is a truly invaluable asset, perfectly tailored to the needs and rhythms of urban family life in Chelsea. It’s far more than just a public space; it’s a vibrant community hub and an essential escape.

Firstly, its prime location at 10th Avenue and West 22nd Street in Chelsea makes it incredibly accessible for local residents. Whether you're walking from a nearby apartment, a local school, or simply strolling through the neighborhood, the park is a convenient and inviting destination. Its proximity to public transportation further extends its reach, making it easy for families from other parts of Manhattan to visit for a playdate or an afternoon of fun.

Secondly, the park’s recent renovation has dramatically enhanced its suitability for local families. With updated, spacious, and diverse play structures, including swings for all ages and accessible features, it genuinely caters to children of various developmental stages and abilities. The popular summer spray shower provides a crucial cooling-off spot during New York’s hot summers, and the presence of shared toys by the community fosters a wonderful sense of camaraderie among parents and children. While it can get busy after school, knowing the calmer morning and early afternoon hours offers a perfect window for toddlers and infants.

Finally, Clement Clarke Moore Park embodies the spirit of a true neighborhood park. It’s a place where caregivers can connect, children can make friends, and community events, like the cherished "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" reading, reinforce local traditions. It provides essential green space and opportunities for outdoor activity, making it a cornerstone for families seeking a clean, fun, and welcoming environment right here in the heart of Chelsea.

Clement Clarke Moore Park

10th Avenue &, W 22nd St, New York, NY 10011, USA