Brooklyn residents looking for outdoor recreation, family-friendly activities, and waterfront relaxation have plenty to look forward to as the LeFrak Center at Lakeside officially opens for its Spring 2026 season in Prospect Park.
Operated by Prospect Park Alliance, the 26-acre destination in the southeast corner of the park offers a wide range of seasonal activities, including roller skating, pickleball, roller hockey, boating, dining, and, later this month, the return of its popular Splash Pad.
As temperatures rise, visitors can take advantage of the center’s covered rink, which hosts daily roller-skating and pickleball sessions. Skating enthusiasts can also enjoy all-ages Roller Disco Nights held on select Friday evenings, while athletes can register for the Lakeside Roller Hockey League and adult street hockey programs.
One of the center’s most distinctive attractions is its access to the 60-acre Prospect Park Lake, the only lake in Brooklyn. Guests can rent rowboats and kayaks to explore the scenic waterway while taking in views of the surrounding parkland, wildlife, and natural habitats.
Families with young children will have another reason to visit beginning Memorial Day, when the Splash Pad, Prospect Park’s largest water play area, reopens for the season. The popular attraction provides a refreshing way for children to cool off during the summer months.
Beyond recreation, visitors can enjoy food and beverages at Duck Island Cafe and Bar, located inside the LeFrak Center. The year-round eatery offers indoor and outdoor seating with panoramic views of the park. Guests can choose from breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, including sandwiches, salads, pizzas, baked goods, vegetarian selections, coffee drinks, beer, wine, and specialty cocktails.
The LeFrak Center will temporarily adjust operations from May 9 through May 17 while hosting the RBC Brooklyn Half Expo. During that period, most recreational activities will be paused. However, boating will remain available during the weekend, and Duck Island Cafe will continue serving guests on select dates.
Since opening, Lakeside has become one of Prospect Park’s most visited destinations, combining recreation, nature, and community programming in a unique setting. The area also includes the Shelby White and Leon Levy Esplanade and Chaim Baier Music Island, which feature walking paths, picnic areas, and native landscaping that supports local wildlife, including ducks and turtles.
Managed by Prospect Park Alliance in partnership with the City of New York, the LeFrak Center continues to play a key role in enhancing Brooklyn’s “Backyard” by providing year-round activities and welcoming spaces for visitors of all ages.
For schedules, pricing, and additional information, visitors can explore the LeFrak Center’s Spring 2026 offerings throughout the season.