Ball fields
Central Park has 26 state-of-the-art ballfields.
Central Park offers multiple ballfields for softball and baseball games, league play, and casual pickup games. Reserve a field or join a game to enjoy classic ballpark fun in the heart of the park.
The fields are spread out via three main areas of the park:
- Heckscher Ballfields - Six ballfields
- Great Lawn - Eight ballfields
- North Meadow - Seven baseball fields and five softball fields
Permits
Fields are available for pickup games without a permit, though a permit is the only way to ensure your game is not interrupted by a group who made a request for that space and time.
Use this Field & Court permit availability map from NYC Parks to see what fields have been booked ahead of time and which are free.
You can apply for a ballfield permit with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation. Permits typically take 21-30 days to be approved. The Manhattan ballfield permit office number is: (212) 408-0234.
If you want to include a birthday party or any other type of event that includes activities beyond the use of a field, you’ll need to request a special event permit from NYC Parks.
Tips
Red flags get posted when lawns are closed for maintenance or adverse weather conditions.
For field conditions, call 212-628-1036; for Heckscher, ext. 332; the Great Lawn, ext. 330; and the North Meadow, ext. 331