The 5 Best Soccer Fields in NYC for Families (Where Grownups Ball & Kids Go Wild on the Playground)
Plan on bringing a tiny human sidekick or two in tow to your next Footy match? Since they're not about to sit on the sidelines just to watch you roam the field, finding a park with a functioning children’s playground is paramount to your success.
In honor of all the soccer parents out there trying to do both this summer now that’s school’s out, here are the top 5 NYC fields where grownups can play hard—and kids can play harder.
BBP is the place to be this summer if you’re an NYC Footy parent
1. Pier 5, Brooklyn Bridge Park
Location: Brooklyn Heights
Let’s just say this is the Beyoncé of NYC soccer fields. It’s got views, it's got vibe, and it's got three beautifully maintained turf fields floating over the East River. And right next door? One of the best playground set-ups in the city.
The adjacent Pier 6 playgrounds (yes, plural) feature water jets, sand pits, climbing structures, and slides that look like they were designed by NASA engineers. Plus, Smorgasburg is within stroller range.
2. Riverside Park – 101st St Soccer Field
Location: Upper West Side, Manhattan
Classic NYC energy with a side of convenience. The 101st Street field is tucked right along the Hudson River and has become a go-to for adult pickup and leagues alike.
Walk five minutes in either direction and you’ll hit not one, not two, but three playgrounds, including the Neufeld Playground (known for its sprinklers and shaded seating). Bonus: there’s often an unofficial “scooter Grand Prix” happening nearby.
3. Red Hook Park Soccer Fields
Location: Red Hook, Brooklyn
You want grit and charm? Red Hook’s got both. These fields are big, bold, and right next to a massive playground zone with climbing structures, monkey bars, and splash areas.
While you're chasing a through ball, your kid can be chasing pigeons or making lifelong friends in the sandbox. And when the final whistle blows, you’re just a few blocks from Hometown BBQ and Steve’s Key Lime Pie. We call that a full send.
4. Saratoga Park (Hilltop Playground), Bed-Stuy
Location: Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn
This spot recently got a glow-up. New turf, a track, and one of the freshest playgrounds in the borough. The Hilltop Playground includes colorful climbing zones, splash pads, and space to scooter like it’s a competitive sport.
The soccer field here is full-sized and ideal for adult games, especially if you’re looking for a quieter, community-feel kind of match.
5. Grassmere Playground Soccer Field
Location: Far Rockaway, Queens
You probably haven’t played here yet—but you should. This under-the-radar gem was recently upgraded with a new junior soccer field, playgrounds for different age groups, and even a mini track.
It’s designed for families and built to handle a full afternoon of sports + snacks. There’s plenty of parking, and the beach isn’t too far if you want to turn game day into a mini getaway.
Final Whistle
Finding a park that works for you and your mini-me is the brace everyone needs when playing soccer in the summer.
Next time you’re scouting your league’s schedule, remember: you’re not just picking a field—you’re picking a playground, a memory, and probably your kid’s next favorite hangout. Your weekends are their childhood, so with that in mind, be sure to bookmark NYC Footy’s available and upcoming fall leagues here.