New Year’s Resolutions

Let's look forward to 2026! Here are some goals you can set for yourself in the new year!

In 2026, I'd like to ...

Practice being more present

Nature has a special way of guiding us through time and inspiring us. The next time you visit a park, stop to listen to the whistle of the wind while your eyes are closed; breathe in the fresh air; examine how the trees grow; and keep your eyes peeled for birds and squirrels. Venture out on one of our recommended hiking trails or join one of our upcoming hikes with the Urban Park Rangers. If you're looking to learn on your walk through nature, open the NYC Tree Map on your next walk through a park to learn all about all the trees you find on your journey.

Give back to nature

Climate change and pollution continue to threaten parks, street trees, and natural landscapes, like forests and salt marshes, and wildlife right here in NYC. Give back in a meaningful way this year by taking these simple steps to care for nature that cares for you. You can also get started by recycling your holiday tree at Mulchfest or signing up for an upcoming volunteer event. 

Spend more time with family and friends

Our parks are open for picnics, playdates, ice skating, games, and sightseeing in the open air. Make it an adventure — come along on Urban Park Ranger events outdoors in the parks or discover the wonders of NYC on a hiking trail!

Get in shape 

Joining a recreation center is the perfect way to reach your fitness goals! We have indoor tracks, courts, pools, and cardio and strength training equipment, plus fun fitness workout sessions with our expert trainers, all available through an affordable Recreation Center membership. If you prefer to work out outdoors, enjoy the fresh air and check out our Guide to Outdoor Fitness at NYC Parks to find outdoor running tracks, outdoor fitness equipment, trails, and courts near you, or find a volunteer-led Shape Up NYC class in your area!

Meet new people

Volunteer groups across the city come together in our parks to build community and enjoy the outdoors while helping to keep our greenspaces clean and fun. With our Volunteer Directory, you can match with the perfect group for you and your interests, whether you're looking to keep the beach clean with other surfers, maintain trails with other hikers, or just keep your local park looking beautiful with your neighbors!

Dig into a new hobby

Whether you're looking to unlock your inner artist, develop your video editing skills, become more tech-savvy, or anything in between, our Media Education programs are perfect for you! Explore upcoming classes that will provide you with all the tools you need to take your interests to the next level.