When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park
Why Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nike Field at Sara D. Roosevelt Park in Manhattan’s Lower East Side is a vibrant and accessible outdoor sports facility that has become a favored site for locals and visitors to engage in various pickup sports, especially soccer and basketball. Nestled within the lively atmosphere of New York City, this artificial turf pitch offers excellent play conditions and a welcoming environment for both casual players and organized teams. The field's synthetic surface and full-size 6 x 12 foot goals accommodate high-quality soccer matches, while the adjacent courts provide options for basketball and open play volleyball. Nike Field’s location within the 7.8-acre Sara D. Roosevelt Park adds to its appeal, offering visitors a green urban space that is both active and community-oriented. Whether you wish to join a spontaneous game or participate in organized leagues, this space supports a wide range of player skill levels, from beginners to more experienced players. Permits are required for formal league play, but a first-come, first-served policy makes it easy for anyone to drop in and enjoy a game. The dynamic urban culture of the Lower East Side and the community spirit fostered through regular pickup games make Nike Field an excellent destination to meet friends and engage in active recreation in the heart of the city.
Here's what people think of Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park
As of recent, Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park holds a 4-star rating based on 66 reviews.
User reviews of Nike Field at Sara D. Roosevelt Park generally reflect a positive experience with an overall rating of 4.0 from 66 reviews. Many users appreciate the quality of the synthetic turf surface and the convenience of this location in Lower Manhattan. Positive reviews highlight the vibrant community vibe, noting how the field is ideal for pickup soccer and basketball games and social interactions among players. Reviewers frequently mention the accessibility of the field for spontaneous play and the variety of sports accommodated. Additionally, users value the park setting, which offers a pleasant urban green space to relax around the active sports facilities. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to a lack of consistent maintenance — with particular remarks about the field having fallen into some disrepair at times. A few reviews also indicate that the benches and spectator areas could be improved for better comfort. Nevertheless, the overall sentiment embraces the Nike Field as a well-loved and culturally rich sports venue that plays an important role in the local community. The field’s ability to bring people together for friendly competition and casual socializing remains the cornerstone of its appeal across the range of user experiences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Daly
Horrible turf with a great field location . If they put down new turf it would be a gem in the city!!
Maura Sateriale
I only gave this Park three stars because sometimes it rains. I pay a lot in tax dollars. Why can't the New York Park service stop the rain? Robert Moses would be turning in his grave if he knew people were playing soccer in the rain because we hadn't yet learned to control the weather by the year 2025 or whatever
Tom W. H. IV James
This is a park where you can enjoy time with your Family and Friends. They need to make the necessary repairs to the park and Basketball courts to make sure they are safe to play on. Don't want the children to become injured while enjoying themselves in the park or on the Basketball courts.
Daniel Campbell
The turf is pretty hard and the fence is dangerously close to the field.
Jorge Ignacio Espejo
Field was inclined and turf was weird. Goals were small. Still a place were I can play soccer but not a great one. Covers the minimum
How to reach Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park
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Why Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Nike Field in Sara D. Roosevelt Park offers a perfect blend of dynamic sports action and vibrant urban energy that makes any meetup memorable. Situated in the heart of New York City’s Lower East Side, Nike Field captures a unique atmosphere where the buzz of the city meets the passion of sports lovers. This is not just any soccer field—it’s a hub where community, fitness, and fun come together on artificial turf designed for high-energy pickup games and organized leagues. Whether you want to shoot hoops, volley a ball, or most notably, kick a soccer ball, the field’s environment encourages camaraderie and spontaneous play. The opportunity to engage in pickup games or join seasonal leagues means your group can bond over friendly competition or exercise together, making it ideal for strengthening friendships or family ties through active recreation. The vibrant Lower East Side surroundings add a cultural flair that’s hard to match, providing not only a place to play but a setting full of life, making Nike Field a compelling choice for any group looking to rally outdoors amidst one of New York’s most lively neighborhoods.
What activities can groups enjoy at Nike Field Soccer at Sara D. Roosevelt Park?
Nike Field is designed primarily as a soccer venue, featuring an artificial turf field perfectly suited for 5v5 or 7v7 soccer matches. The field is used for both casual pickup games and organized soccer leagues that take place weekly, with coed formats providing inclusive opportunities for all skill levels. Teams can join urban soccer leagues that run games every weekend, creating a structured yet social way to enjoy the sport with friends. Beyond soccer, the park’s community atmosphere supports basketball and volleyball on adjacent courts, offering options for groups to diversify their activities and cater to varying interests. Open play is encouraged on unreserved courts and fields, so groups can spontaneously start games or drills without complex scheduling. The soccer leagues range from beginner to intermediate levels, making it accessible for players new to the game or those with more experience. This variety ensures groups of all compositions can find something enjoyable to do together, whether they aim for competitive play or just an active, fun outing.
Why is Nike Field the perfect place for a group meetup?
Nike Field’s appeal as a group meetup spot lies in its combination of convenience, community, and activity richness. Located between Rivington and Stanton Streets in Sara D. Roosevelt Park, it is centrally accessible to residents and visitors in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, a highly walkable and transit-friendly neighborhood. This makes assembling a group relatively easy no matter where the participants come from. The park itself has seen substantial investment and upkeep, creating a safe, clean environment ideal for outdoor sports and social gatherings. The artificial turf field provides a consistent playing surface regardless of weather, allowing teams to plan meets year-round. Additionally, the field’s ambient urban setting—with city sounds, street art, and nearby eateries—offers more than just sports; it enhances the group experience by giving opportunities to relax and socialize before or after the game. The presence of permitted leagues also adds structure for groups interested in regular play, while open play options make casual drop-ins simple and spontaneous. Whether for a birthday party, family gathering, or friend reunion, Nike Field’s facilities and setting encourage active engagement and quality time in a lively yet welcoming environment.
How does organizing games or sports work at Nike Field?
Groups interested in organizing games at Nike Field should be aware of the permit system used for scheduled events or league play. Although many fields and courts remain open on a first-come, first-served basis for pickup games, obtaining an athletic field permit is necessary for reserving the space for private or organized use. This ensures that the field is properly allocated and prevents conflicts between different groups. For friend or family meetups, informal pickup games often suffice, especially on weekends or evenings when many players show up spontaneously. For more structured events or league participation, permits can be obtained through NYC Parks, which coordinates field availability by season. Local leagues frequently use Nike Field during their sessions, so timing and scheduling in advance are advisable. Those organizing events should plan permits ahead when possible to guarantee uninterrupted play. Also, the urban soccer leagues hosted here often follow 7v7 formats and incorporate mixed gender play, which promotes inclusivity and team diversity—ideal for social groups wanting to join the local sports community.
What makes the Lower East Side location advantageous for social meetups at Nike Field?
The Lower East Side (LES) location amplifies the social and cultural value of meetups at Nike Field. As one of Manhattan’s most eclectic and historic neighborhoods, LES offers a rich mix of street culture, food spots, and community arts that attendees can enjoy before or after their time on the field. The neighborhood’s vibrant vibe encourages groups to extend their gatherings beyond sports into shared meals or exploration of local landmarks and shops. The convenience of public transportation and walkability means less hassle coordinating arrivals from different parts of the city. In addition, the park’s presence in an urban green space provides a refreshing outdoor oasis amid the cityscape, combining nature with city life. For groups new to New York or visiting friends and family, it is an accessible introduction to the city’s recreational offerings. Cultural exposure and active play fuse naturally at Nike Field’s LES setting, making it a compelling destination to rally friends or family for a well-rounded social experience.
How well maintained and safe is Nike Field for group use?
Although Nike Field had some historical periods of disrepair, recent investments and upkeep have revitalized the space, including new artificial turf installation. This maintenance ensures a safe, consistent playing surface that reduces injury risk and increases enjoyment for players. The park’s ongoing improvements reflect New York City’s commitment to providing clean, green, and resilient public spaces. Safety is enhanced by the visible presence of park staff and the community’s familiarity with the field as a well-used local asset. The artificial turf provides year-round usability without the mud and unevenness of natural grass fields, which is especially important for groups with mixed skill levels or those seeking reliable conditions. Additionally, the surrounding park area is well lit at night, supporting evening games or social meetups, and contributes to a secure environment for all visitors. These factors combine to make Nike Field both a welcoming and dependable place for groups looking to gather for active fun.
What types of leagues and events are hosted at Nike Field?
Nike Field hosts a variety of urban soccer leagues catering to diverse participants with different skill levels and preferences. Popular formats include 7v7 coed leagues that require a minimum number of female players per team, fostering inclusivity and balanced team dynamics. League sessions typically run weekly, often on weekends in the evenings, providing a consistent schedule for groups to engage competitively. These leagues are suitable for beginner and intermediate players, making them accessible to a wide array of social groups and friends who may want structured competition alongside pickup games. Besides soccer, the park accommodates informal basketball and volleyball activities, although these do not usually involve formal leagues like soccer does. Tournaments, community events, and occasional special matches also take place, further energizing the field’s local sports scene. For groups seeking to join existing leagues or create new teams, Nike Field represents a hub of community sports activity and an excellent way to integrate into the city’s active lifestyle.
What facilities and amenities surround Nike Field for group convenience?
Beyond the playing field, Nike Field benefits from the wider Sara D. Roosevelt Park’s amenities, which enhance the overall group experience. The park features tree-lined walkways, benches, and open green spaces perfect for warming up, cooling down, or simply relaxing between games. Nearby picnic areas allow for food and drink breaks or celebratory meetups after playing. Public benches and shaded spots provide resting areas for those not participating in the games. The park also offers accessibility features and well-maintained pathways conducive to groups with diverse needs. Lavatory facilities and water fountains are typically available, supporting longer visits. Close proximity to the Lower East Side’s eateries and cafes means groups can conveniently transition from active play to social dining without traveling far, making it simple to extend outings into full-day gatherings. These complementary facilities underscore Nike Field’s role not just as a playing venue but as a communal space that supports varied group social activities.
How accessible is Nike Field for visitors and group organizers?
Nike Field’s location in Sara D. Roosevelt Park ensures excellent accessibility for visitors using public transit, biking, or walking. Situated between Rivington and Stanton Streets, it lies near several subway lines and bus routes, which simplifies transportation for groups coming from multiple neighborhoods. The urban setting is highly walkable, encouraging environmentally friendly travel and easy coordination of meetup points. For organizers, the field’s open nature and flexible first-come, first-served policy on many playing times reduce the complexity of scheduling casual gatherings. Though permits are required for formal events or league play, such administrative aspects are managed efficiently through NYC Parks, helping teams plan in advance. The park also accommodates players using appropriate footwear such as turf shoes or sneakers, enhancing inclusivity by reducing the need for specialized gear. Overall, Nike Field’s accessibility supports a broad range of visitors and ensures that group meetups can be planned with ease and convenience.
What experiences do other visitors report about Nike Field?
With an overall rating of 4.0 from 66 reviews, Nike Field enjoys a generally positive reputation among those who frequent it. Visitors appreciate the vibrant atmosphere, the quality of the turf, and the convenience of its location in the Lower East Side. Many highlight the social aspect of pickup games and the community feel fostered by the leagues hosted there. Some reviews mention the field’s occasional maintenance issues but acknowledge recent improvements that have addressed many concerns. The open play environment encourages connecting with other players, making it a socially rewarding place for friends and family to gather and engage in sports. Overall, feedback portrays Nike Field as a popular, well-loved hub for urban sports enthusiasts seeking an active and social experience in New York City.
What should friends and families know before organizing a meetup at Nike Field?
Before organizing a meetup, groups should consider a few practical details to maximize their experience at Nike Field. First, check field availability through the NYC Parks website or local league schedules to avoid conflicts with permitted events. It is advisable to arrive early for pickup games, as open play uses a first-come, first-served system. Bring appropriate sports gear such as turf shoes or sneakers since metal cleats are not allowed on the artificial surface. Be prepared for seasonal weather changes; although the turf handles wear well, extreme weather may affect gameplay. Planning some food and water is wise since park amenities are supportive but limited during off-peak hours. Also, familiarize your group with the park rules to keep the field safe and enjoyable for everyone. With a little preparation, meetups at Nike Field can be rewarding, active, and socially fulfilling for friends and family groups alike.