When you enter the main gate, you’ll find a standard playground and basketball court on your left. On your right is a long fishing pier stretching out over the river. The views of the rocky shoreline, the water, and the nearby isles (including Rikers Island, which looks picturesque from afar) are stunning, and my kids always get a wonderful workout just running the length of the pier and back.

Paved pathways begin at the entrance and continue throughout the park, making it a great place for a jog, bike ride, or stroll. There are open grassy areas perfect for playing catch or lounging, a small sandy beach where you can walk right up to the water (no swimming allowed, as if we need to tell you not to jump in the East River), and in the warmer months visitors can catch live entertainment at the riverside amphitheater. (My own kids put on quite the amateur show there when we last visited.) No dogs are allowed in the park and barbecuing is prohibited, however there are picnic tables. It's best to bring your own spread since, aside from the occasional food truck, there aren't any restaurants or stores nearby.

In summer, Barretto Point Park is home to the Floating Pool Lady, a seven-lane pool on a docked barge. Take the gangplank up to the facility and enjoy all the standard amenities including locker rooms, bathrooms and a pool house, right on the water. You can also register for free swim lessons at the pool.

Barretto Point Park is home to many annual neighborhood celebrations, notably the Fish Parade and Summer Festival and the Hunts Point American Indian Native Festival. It's one of our top free June festivals and features colorful costumes, cultural performances, and hands-on science and art activities.

Barretto Point Park is located at Viele Avenue between Tiffany and Barretto Streets. Take the 6 train to Hunts Point Avenue and walk (for a long time) or grab the BX6 bus to Halleck Street-Hunts Point Avenue.

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