Widely known for its intricate humanmade watercourse and its trees, the bulk of Brooklyn's remaining indigenous forest, the park is a highly functional green space. Contained within its 526 acres are a zoo, the first urban-area Audubon Center in the nation, an ice rink, a band shell, a carousel, and dozens of athletic and recreational facilities.
Designed by the same landscape architects who created Central Park, Prospect Park is home to Brooklyn's only lake, which spans 24 hectares (60 acres) and is surrounded by woodlands, walking paths, and lawns. The park is full of memorials, including the Litchfield Villa and a statue of General Lafayette. Stop first at the Boathouse visitor center for information on park events and attractions.