Features

Gramercy Park and some of the residential buildings encircling it with key access

From Goldilocks Blocks The keys to Gramercy Park: History and full list of buildings with park access

By CityRealty Staff Thursday, October 19, 2023

New York's most upscale residential buildings flaunt the use of high-quality materials: statuary marble floors, bronze door handles and frames, and onyx details. But the rarest and perhaps most highly coveted amenity of all is made from a commonplace nickel alloy: a key to Gramercy Park, the only private park in Manhattan.

History

In 1831, developer and urban planner Samuel Ruggles deeded two acres of his extensive property holdings to be used as a park surrounded by mansions, a practice inspired by London. While the first few years were spent draining the wetlands, the park was fenced in the mid-1830s and locked in 1844. It was the antithesis of Union Square, another of Mr. Ruggles' creations regarded as a park for the people.

Over the first 50 years of Gramercy Park’s existence, the gates were only opened once during the Civil War draft riots. The violence spread north from Lower Manhattan, and the Eighth Regiment artillery camped out in the park while defending the people.

In 1890, the New York State Legislature passed a bill that would have allowed a cable car to pass through Gramercy Park. Local activists shut down that proposal, as well as one to run a street through it connecting Irving Place and Lexington Avenue. The second proposal in 1912 was the last serious attempt at breaching the park, and the gates have been locked ever since.

Present Day

Gramercy Park is considered the unofficial front yard of the 39 buildings surrounding it. According to The New York Times, each building pays a yearly assessment fee of $7,500, which grants them two keys (buildings with more lots get more keys). Fear of having key privileges rescinded keeps the payments coming in.

The first keys to Gramercy Park were made from solid gold, and today’s park keys are treated as reverently as if this is still the practice. Zeckendorf Development intentionally chose 18 Gramercy Park South, a one-time Salvation Army residence, for a condo conversion based on park proximity and paid for the first year of park keys for buyers. The conversion of 36 Gramercy Park East went even further - the sponsor presented buyers with park keys and personalized brass keychains.

Entrance to 36 Gramercy Park East (Nest Seekers)

And while 57 Irving Place is two and a half blocks south of Gramercy Park, developer Madison Equities devised an ingenious strategy to get keys for buyers: If buyers were able to join the Players Club (founded by Shakesperean actor Edwin Booth, whose statue is a centerpiece of the park), which confers keys to members in good standing, Madison Equities owner Robert Gladstone would pay their annual dues for five years.

Of the 383 keys manufactured in 2012, 126 were managed by doormen and concierges in buildings on the park, who allowed residents to sign them out. Residents who do not wish to go through the building pay $350 a year for personal keys. All keys are numbered and coded, and the keys and locks are changed every year. Those who are foolish enough to lose their park keys are charged $1,000 for replacements. If the keys are lost again, the replacement costs $2,000.

Looking at the building on Gramercy Park North

Statue of Edwin Booth at the center of the park

Rules and Exclusivity

Nearly 200 years since Mr. Ruggles deeded the land, Gramercy Park remains accessible only to property owners of buildings directly on the park. In addition to the Players Club, members of the National Arts Club (the first private club to admit women on an equal basis as men), the Brotherhood Synagogue, and Cavalry-St. George’s Church are also eligible for keys to the park.

When the five-star Gramercy Park Hotel was open, guests could use the hotel's keys to the park but were required to be escorted in and out by hotel staff. Keyholders may be accompanied by no more than five guests at a time. The hotel, which shuttered during the pandemic, is expected to reopen in two years under new owners, who intend to return the property to its original splendor. Whoever holds the keys, the precious hardware is required for entering and exiting the park alike.

View of Gramercy Park South from the Gramercy Park Hotel (Christie's Real Estate

Mr. Ruggles described the park as ornamental as opposed to recreational, a mindset that remains in place well into the 21st century. The park closes at dusk every night. During the day, visitors are not permitted to ride bicycles, bring lawn furniture, play Frisbee or “hardball” sports, drink alcohol, smoke, walk dogs, or feed the birds.

The surrounding clubs, churches, and hotels make gorgeous wedding venues, but photography in the park is not allowed. Nor is commercial photography - witness the ado when an Airbnb guest with a key posted pictures of Gramercy Park to Google Maps in 2014. And for those unfamiliar with the park’s rules, “Mayor Arlene” Harrison, park trustee and founder of the Gramercy Park Block Association, is one of its fiercest protectors.

For one hour on Christmas Eve, the gates of Gramercy Park traditionally open for caroling hosted by Cavalry-St. George’s Church. For the rest of the year, most of us can only admire it from the fenced perimeter. Availabilities are naturally few and far between, but we take a look at listings that provide keys to the park as well as the apartments.

Residential buildings with keys to the park:

1 Gramercy Park West

1 Lexington Avenue

2 Gramercy Park West

60 Gramercy Park North
4 availabilities from $1.795M - $4.5M

50 Gramercy Park North
4 availabilities from $2.595M - $5M

Irving Place, 57 Irving Place

3 Gramercy Park West

9 Gramercy Park South

12 Gramercy Park South

13 Gramercy Park South

18 Gramercy Park South
1 availability for $7.95M

21 Gramercy Park South

22 Gramercy Park South

24 Gramercy Park South

36 Gramercy Park East
2 availabilities from $1.599M - $5.65M

38 Gramercy Park
2 availabilities from $625K - $1.15M

44 Gramercy Park North
2 availabilities from $1.495M - $5.8M

45 Gramercy Park North

The Gramercy, 34 Gramercy East
1 availability for $1.275M

The Irving, 26 Gramercy Park South
2 availabilities from $575K - $600K

19 Gramercy Park South

10 Gramercy Park South

39 Gramercy Park North;
2 availabilities from $795K - $2.65M

Gramercy Towers, 32 Gramercy Park South
4 availabilities from $625K - $1.15M

10 Gramercy Park South

39 Gramercy Park North

Gramercy Towers

The Irving, #7C
$575,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The Irving, #7C (Compass)

From the Listing: Keys to the park await your presence! Your new chic junior one bedroom was thoughtfully renovated by an esteemed interior designer, full of custom touches throughout. Southern exposure pours through your window showcasing the city, viewing the tops of surrounding buildings and iconic water towers. See floor plan and full details here.

The Irving, #3E
$600,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The Irving, #3E (Compass)

From the Listing: Fantastic opportunity to own a smartly renovated one bed / one bath apartment nestled on one of the most charming blocks in the city and your own coveted key to Gramercy Park, Manhattan's only remaining private park! This delightful home features a renovated kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and a sleek, white-tiled bathroom with ample storage space. See floor plan and full details here.

Gramercy Towers, #11E
$625,000 (-13.8%)

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

Gramercy Towers, #11E (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: FULL GRAMERCY PARK and LANDMARK VIEWS with a PRIVATE KEY TO GRAMERCY PARK! 11E is a renovated, sun-drenched studio with protected Western views. It has the serenity of an exceptionally quiet home facing away from the street. The unit features wide plank hardwood floors throughout and 2 large walk-in closets. See floor plan and full details here.

Gramercy Towers, #3H
$659,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 650 ft²

Gramercy Towers, #3H (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Residence 3H at 32 Gramercy Park South is an oversized, one bedroom apartment with a private key to Gramercy Park. The home is flooded with natural light and features Pergo floors, great ceiling height, and abundant storage throughout.Enter through a large gallery and into the spacious living and dining room that boasts sunny western exposures with tranquil garden views and is perfect for entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

39 Gramercy Park North, #3D
$795,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

39 Gramercy Park North, #3D (Compass)

From the Listing: This one-bedroom Gramercy Park apartment has low maintenance and is located in one of Manhattan's most desirable areas. Sunlight floods the generously proportioned living room and bedroom creating a welcoming and happy home. The large living room provides ample space to dine and entertain. And. you get the key to coveted Gramercy Park, Manhattan's only private park. See floor plan and full details here.

Gramercy Towers, #13B
$895,000 (-5.8%)

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

Gramercy Towers, #13B (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: High floor one bedroom in tremendously sought-after 32 Gramercy Park South. This bright and airy unit is drenched with sunlight from its open, eastern exposures and comes with a key to the ultra-exclusive Gramercy Park. See floor plan and full details here.

The Gramercy, #1BR
$1,275,000 (-15%)

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The Gramercy, #1BR (Compass)

From the Listing: Key to the Park! 13' Ceilings with Exquisite Original 1883 Ornate Crown Mouldings. This one-bedroom, one-bath apartment has a grand living room with 13' ceilings and original 1883 mouldings- a perfect space for elegant entertaining. There is an original fireplace with original hearth tiles (now decorative) and three 7' windows with shutters. There is more than ample space to accommodate fine dining in this lovely setting. See floor plan and full details here.

Gramercy Towers, #9J
$1,150,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 850 ft²

Gramercy Towers, #9J (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: World famous address and PRIVATE KEY available to GRAMERCY PARK! Fantastic condition with bright and open eastern exposure, this spacious 1-bedroom also has a large dining alcove/office/2nd sleeping area. Approximately 900 sq feet, this move-in ready home boasts a pass-through kitchen with granite counters and top appliances, solid hardwood floors, and EXCEPTIONAL closet space. See floor plan and full details here.

44 Gramercy Park North, #6F
$1,495,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

44 Gramercy Park North, #6F (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Apartment 6F at 44 Gramercy Park North is a luxurious 1-bedroom, 1-bath home that offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern sophistication. This stunning apartment was renovated and designed by a renowned NYC-based interior designer and comes with a personal key to Gramercy Park. See floor plan and full details here.

36 Gramercy Park East, #5S
$1,599,000

Gramercy Park | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath | 920 ft²

36 Gramercy Park East, #5S (Nest Seekers LLC)

From the Listing: 36 Gramercy Park East is unique among the distinguished buildings surrounding New York's most famous private park. It's a stunning example of the architecture and history of the Gramercy Park neighborhood. See floor plan and full details here.

60 Gramercy Park North, #8H
$1,795,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths

60 Gramercy Park North, #8H (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Beautifully gut-renovated two-bedroom, one-and-a-half bath apartment with wall of 9 south-facing windows and 1 west-facing window at 60 Gramercy Park North. The entry foyer opens into a windowed chef's open-style kitchen and a breakfast bar with seating for 4. The completely renovated cooking area features top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances from Miele and Bosch.The living room has built-in cabinetry and shelving, as well as elegant track lighting along the beamed ceiling, built-in wall-mounted speakers, pale hardwood floors, and through-wall air conditioners tastefully concealed in all rooms of the apartment. See floor plan and full details here.

60 Gramercy Park North, #12M
$1,875,000 (-5.1%)

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths

60 Gramercy Park North, #12M (Coldwell Banker Warburg)

From the Listing: No Board approval is required for this two-bedroom, one and one-half bathroom brand newly renovated apartment in a white glove pre-war building designed by famed architect Emery Roth and located in the bucolic enclave of Gramercy Park. A coveted key to the Park comes with the apartment. See floor plan and full details here.

50 Gramercy Park North, #2A
$2,595,000 (-5.6%)

Gramercy Park | Condop | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,407 ft²

50 Gramercy Park North, #2A (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Mint 2-bed on Gramercy Park with expansive 1,000+ sqft private terrace and key to the park. Upon entering over 40 feet of floor-to-ceiling windows showcase views of Gramercy Park. This large living area offers space for defined dining, living, and library areas. The fully equipped kitchen with a Subzero refrigerator, Miele appliances, and 5 burner stove opens to a breakfast bar and has park views. See floor plan and full details here.

39 Gramercy Park North, #3BC
$2,650,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths

39 Gramercy Park North, #3BC (Compass)

From the Listing: A key to Gramercy Park, south-facing outdoor space, and a fully renovated home... this apartment is the home of Gramercy dreams! #3B is a rare offering in the neighborhood. The home is the result of a combination and now holds three en-suite bedrooms plus a separate home office, and a fourth full bathroom that doubles as a powder room. It has been thoughtfully renovated with a modern aesthetic and is ready for its new owner. See floor plan and full details here.

60 Gramercy Park North, #2A
$2,750,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

60 Gramercy Park North, #2A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Pre-war three bedroom with two full baths, private washer & dryer, twenty-four-hour doorman, and front row views of Gramercy Park from south-facing windows in every room! A generous foyer leads to a large loft-like living and dining area, with beamed ceilings and beautiful hardwood floors creating a warm and welcoming feel. Views of the tree-lined streets and charming brownstones bordering Gramercy Park, one of the most enchanting parks in Manhattan will transport you to an old New York. See floor plan and full details here.

50 Gramercy Park North, #12B
$3,250,000

Gramercy Park | Condop | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,032 ft²

50 Gramercy Park North, #12B (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Perfectly appointed high floor two bedroom, with the opportunity to add a third, two-and-a-half bath with a southern facing 40-foot expanse of floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking exclusive Gramercy Park. On entry to the home, the grand foyer leads you into the gracious great room complete with 12-foot ceilings and a marble-clad wood-burning fireplace. The double exposure fills the space with light all day long, and the open-plan chefs kitchen, complete with breakfast nook, allows for seamless entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

50 Gramercy Park North, #12A
$4,250,000

Gramercy Park | Condop | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,848 ft²

50 Gramercy Park North, #12A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Welcome to this breathtaking fully remodeled apartment with spectacular views of Gramercy Park. Move right in to this south-facing 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath unit overlooking historic Gramercy Park.This unit was designed by the acclaimed British architect, John Pawson, and features floor to ceiling windows, oak floors, LeFroy Brooks fixtures, and white lacquered custom cabinetry. See floor plan and full details here.

60 Gramercy Park North, #16A
$4,500,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

60 Gramercy Park North, #16A (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: There is no board approval process for this remarkable 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom Sponsor apartment that boasts gracious pre-war bones, and showcases the timeless craftsmanship that is synonymous with architectural excellence. Designed by the esteemed architect Emery Roth, renowned for his mastery of pre-war aesthetics, this residence offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. See floor plan and full details here.

50 Gramercy Park North, #3B
$5,000,000 (-9.1%)

Gramercy Park | Condop | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,729 ft²

50 Gramercy Park North, #3B (Compass)

From the Listing: A twenty-four-foot entry gallery delivers one to the magnificent interior of this exceptional residence: a voluminous great room graced with massive textured plaster walls and soaring 12-foot high ceilings overlooking the coveted verdant square through incredible floor-to-ceiling 'Walls of Glass'. Absolutely fabulous for entertaining, this stunning south-facing great room is filled with the park and the sky where every season is magnified and on full display. Also beckoning quiet evenings in front of the wood-burning fireplace, this 2729-square-foot loft-like design delivers a lovely light-filled, floor-through continuum via humongous southern and northern exposures.Simply stunning. See floor plan and full details here.

36 Gramercy Park East, #2SW
$5,650,000

Gramercy Park | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,200 ft²

36 Gramercy Park East, #2SW (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: 36 Gramercy Park East Condominium, award-winning for its historical preservation. The entryway is beautifully set with custom-made gas lanterns which are exact replicas of the lanterns that graced the building in 1908.

This brand-new, gut-renovated, three-bedroom residence with a formal dining room, three en-suite bathrooms, and a powder room has been thoughtfully designed using the highest quality finishes and materials. This sophisticated residence combines classic layouts and details and features central A/C, high ceilings, herringbone floors, and hand-crafted ceiling moldings.The residents have access to the only private park in the city. See floor plan and full details here.

44 Gramercy Park North, #11AB
$5,800,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,158 ft²

44 Gramercy Park North, #11AB (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Perfectly positioned and stretching across the northside of the park, this home showcases outstanding Gramercy Park views from every room. Imbued in history, you are inspired by the remarkable craftsmanship and preservation of the authentic details. Originally ‘The Owners' floor, you will enjoy high ceilings, beautiful hardwood flooring, intricate moldings, brass fixtures, and the original marble fireplace.This sun-drenched residence features an expansive Great Room, 2-bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a large library, an eat-in kitchen and two private terraces measuring over 500SF +/-. See floor plan and full details here.

18 Gramercy Park South, #MAISONETTE
$7,950,000 (-3%)

Gramercy Park | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 3,746 ft²

18 Gramercy Park South, #MAISONETTE (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Key to the only private park in Manhattan. .Magnificent hard wood herringbone floors throughout the apartment. The 20' high ceiling in the living room is highlighted by three impressive Murano glass chandeliers by Donghia, a custom Italian Marble gas fireplace and 10 foot high double beveled mirror and custom cabinetry on one end of the room while the other end of the grand salon has a wall adorned with a custom bas relief commissioned especially for the room.The magnificent vaulted ceiling also provides a dramatic setting for the center dining room with ample space for the most amazing entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

Homes for Rent with Gramercy Park Access

37 Gramercy Park East, #PH
$18,000 (-28%)

Gramercy Park | Rental | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

37 Gramercy Park East, #PH (Compass)

From the Listing: Spectacular one-of-a-kind PH duplex, occupying the top floors of a boutique building directly on Gramercy Park. This home offers modern elegance with superb unobstructed park views. A key-lock elevator opens directly into the apartment revealing this modern residence with high ceilings. The dramatic living room graciously curates the views of Gramercy Park through floor-to-ceiling west-facing windows. An ornate original marble mantle adorns the wood-burning fireplace and provides historic context to this beautiful room. See floor plan and full details here.

36 Gramercy Park East, #6N
$16,950 (-5.6%)

Gramercy Park | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 2,200 ft²

36 Gramercy Park East, #6N (Compass)

From the Listing: Truly one-of-a-kind Prewar Beauty with breathtaking Gramercy Park Views! This truly Grand 3 bedroom /3 Bathroom with eat-in kitchen and formal Dining room has tons of original details, beautifully Renovated with GRAND SCALE rooms, a Stunning Master suite Soaring Ceilings, Wood Burning Fireplace, and Your own Key To the PARK! If you ever dreamed of living in Gramercy Park this is your chance! See floor plan and full details here.

11 Gramercy Park South, #3
$14,000

Gramercy Park | Rental | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,750 ft²

11 Gramercy Park South, #3 (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to Residence 3 at 11 Gramercy Park South. This beautifully restored 1400+ square foot duplex has three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The property features original 100-year-old hardwood floors, and an active wood-burning fireplace, and includes a key to the private Gramercy Park. See floor plan and full details here.

7 Gramercy Park West, #5D
$8,600

Gramercy Park | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,005 ft²

7 Gramercy Park West, #5D (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Avail November Sophisticated 2 bed 2 bath Condominium, With keys to Manhattan's most exclusive and prestigious park!, Residence 5D at 7 Gramercy Park West, a Condo of 1,005 ft boasts a chef's kitchen featuring state-of-the-art Sub-Zero, Viking, and Wolf stainless steel appliances. The kitchen's granite countertops and oversized eat-in peninsula effortlessly flow into the lavish living and dining areas, creating a space that's both opulent and welcoming. Elegant hardwood floors throughout adorned with intricate inlays and 10” ceilings, giving a very spacious feeling. See floor plan and full details here.

38 Gramercy Park, #1F
$3,500

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath | 400 ft²

38 Gramercy Park, #1F (Compass)

From the Listing: Rarely available, is a charming prewar studio at 38 Gramercy Park in a pre-war building. Enjoy everything Gramercy Park has to offer, including access to the park (the only private park in Manhattan, the key must be purchased)!

Nice light, high ceilings, hardwood floors, large open kitchen, tons of storage with 2 large walk-in closets. See floor plan and full details here.

38 Gramercy Park, #2B
$3,300

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

38 Gramercy Park, #2B (Compass)

From the Listing: Available 10/1-15 upon board approval. 1yr lease. Photos and floor plan coming soon. 24 hr notice for showings. Rarely available, is a charming studio at 38 Gramercy Park in a pre-war building. Enjoy everything Gramercy Park has to offer, including access to the park (the only private park in Manhattan, the key must be purchased)! See floor plan and full details here.

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