Bowling Green

Bowling Green is a small historic public park in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. Built in the 18th century next to the site of the original Dutch fort of New Amsterdam, it was designated as a park in 1733 under British rule. Surrounded by its original 18th-century cast iron fence, it is the oldest public park in New York City. The park once featured an actual bowling green and a monumental equestrian statue of King George III, which was pulled down in 1776 and reportedly melted for ammunition. Visitors can see the iconic Charging Bull sculpture at the northern end of the park. The park is surrounded by notable buildings including the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, the International Mercantile Marine Company Building, and the Cunard Building. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Bowling Green Fence and Park, it also contributes to the Wall Street Historic District. This historic green space offers a peaceful outdoor break amidst the financial district's architecture.