Seward Park and Straus Square

Welcome to Seward Park and Straus Square located on New York City's Manhattan Island. The city first purchased Seward Park back in 1897. It was named after former Secretary of State John Seward who was in office when the United States purchased Alaska from Russia in 1867. Alaska was indeed not a folly on Seward's part.

New York City Park Ordinances

*Unless otherwise posted all parks close at 1:00 a.m. and open at 6:00 a.m.

*The following are prohibited; childless adults in the playground areas, defacing public property, fighting, gambling, glass objects, harming wildlife, littering, sexual activity, weapons.

*The following are only allowed in designated areas; alcoholic beverages, bicycles, fires, fishing, horseback riding, motor vehicles, swimming.

*The following require special permits; camping, sales.

*All animals must be leashed and waste removed.

Please respect these rules, the parks, and all local, State of New York, and United States statutes.