9. Clove Lakes Park, Staten Island
The two features that set Clove Lakes Park apart from other New York City parks are its distinctive ash green, serpentine rocks and the park’s three-hundred year old tulip tree, which is the largest living thing in Staten Island. The three-mile Clove Lakes Park Trail along Victory Boulevard will provide you with valley lakes, pathways through wooded hills, scenic bridges, and the famous tulip tree. It also home to species like snapping turtles, belted kingfishers, and red-backer salamanders.
In addition to hiking, many visitors enjoy fishing in the park’s central lake. Paddleboat rentals are also available to cruise around on the water. During the fall, the park’s trails are also used to house cross country meets. In the winter, the park is home to the WWII Veterans War Memorial Ice Skating Rink.