🌳 Top Parks & Recreation Areas in Valley Stream

1. Valley Stream State Park

One of the most popular outdoor spaces in the area, this state park offers a wide range of activities for locals and visitors. You’ll find picnic areas with grills and tables, open fields for sports, nature trails, play areas, and walking/jogging paths. There’s also a structured half-mile fitness trail with exercise stations and natural wooded areas to explore. 

📍 Why it’s great:

• Picnic areas and open field space

• Walking trails and easy fitness course

• Playground areas and sports fields

• Nature exploration opportunities

Source: NYS Parks official site & trail info 

2. Arthur J. Hendrickson Park

A beloved village recreation spot, Hendrickson Park includes a public pool, playgrounds, sports courts, and a scenic pond with walking paths. It’s a hub for both active recreation and relaxed leisure time. 

📍 Highlights:

• Swimming pool and splash areas

• Mini-golf, tennis & basketball courts

• Scenic walking path around the pond

• Playground for kids of all ages

Source: Village parks list & local park description 

3. Arlington Park

A local community park maintained by the village that offers green spaces and areas for casual outdoor fun. It’s a nice neighborhood spot for walks, light recreation, and relaxation. 

📍 Why it’s worth mentioning:

• Quiet green space tucked into town

• Great for quick outdoor breaks

• Good spot for picnics and relaxation

Source: Village parks listing 

4. Barrett Park

Another local park option is ideal for spending quality time outdoors without leaving the neighborhood. It’s smaller but great for casual recreation and enjoying open space near home. 

📍 Good for:

• Family walks

• Relaxing outdoor space

• Quick nature breaks

Source: Village parks list 

🏙️ Bonus Outdoor Feature

Village Green & Edward Cahill Memorial Park

Located closer to downtown, these spaces offer shaded green areas, pathways, and spots to gather during community events. They contribute to Valley Stream’s vibrant village-center atmosphere. 

Source: Valley Stream downtown revitalization plan 

🛍️ New Shops & Restaurants Coming Soon to Green Acres Mall (Valley Stream, NY)

Green Acres Mall is undergoing a major transformation called “Green Acres Reimagined,” which will add exciting new retail, dining, and entertainment options while keeping the mall fully open during redevelopment. 

🌟 What’s New & What’s Coming

According to the official Green Acres redevelopment page:

📍 Expanded Retail & Dining Options:

• A new 80,000 sq ft ShopRite supermarket is planned.

• Major new tenants confirmed include: • Sephora (beauty & cosmetics) • JD Sports • Shake Shack • Dave’s Hot Chicken • Tony’s Tacos • Panda Express • Paris Baguette • The Cheesecake Factory All new additions are part of the mall’s expanded mix of shopping and food offerings — making Green Acres a go-to destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

📍 Redevelopment Details:

• The project covers about 400,000 square feet of new space featuring outward-facing stores, green spaces, and dining areas.

• Construction began in May 2025 with a variety of retailers and restaurants expected to open in phases through 2026 and 2027.

The redevelopment includes a new grand entrance and modern streetscape to enhance the visitor experience.