Grand Army Plaza, New York

Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn serves as the entrance to Prospect Park and is distinguished by the elaborate Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Arch, which adorns the gateway and takes inspiration from the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Originally named "The Plaza" when it was constructed in the 1860s, this space was the first car-free parkway in the world, connecting the park to the main roads.

As one of the vibrant hubs in the borough, the plaza now offers a multitude of dining options, cafes, and a refreshing green oasis just a few steps away, making it a definite must-see for anyone visiting New York City. Its centerpiece is the Bailey Fountain, featuring sculpted figures of Neptune, Triton, and attendants, some of which are said to symbolize Wisdom and Felicity. The fountain emanates such power that it could easily supply the Justice League!

A visit to Grand Army Plaza on a Saturday offers the opportunity to explore the borough's longstanding farmers' market, which takes place from 8 am to 3 pm. Here, you'll find cooking demonstrations and stalls brimming with local and regional products, ranging from pastries, dairy, and vodka to merino wool and candles. The market attracts a fascinating mix of people. On select Sundays from May to October, the plaza also hosts a Food Truck Rally, where you can indulge in a variety of dishes, from lobster rolls to Korean tacos.

Moreover, just across from Grand Army Plaza stands the magnificent main branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, a stunning Art Deco masterpiece dedicated to knowledge, while Vanderbilt Ave. and Washington Ave. are bustling streets lined with restaurants and bars.

Image Courtesy of Flickr and Barney Bishop.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in New York. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Sight Name: Grand Army Plaza
Sight Location: New York, USA (See walking tours in New York)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

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