Parks & Recreation has a number of memorable and beautiful friendships that have been cultivated over the multiple seasons of the show. While there's not a singular scene that defines each one, there's certainly a number of underrated and celebrated moments from the series which sum up the dynamics between Leslie and co. perfectly.
Whether it is Ann and Leslie's cute friendship or April and Ron's mentor-mentee relationship, these scenes are heartwarming and sweet; fans have no qualms going back to watch them again and again. They all manage to bring in some of the sitcom's trademark humor and have stood the test of time often because of their authenticity and simplicity. These friendships are ultimately what made the show really work.
April Keeps Ron's Secret (S2 Ep21)
Ron Swanson lives a double life. Although he has built up a reputation for himself in the office, outside of work he becomes the jazz-playing local star, Duke Silver. When April originally finds out it's her first instinct to tell everyone, especially since the duo has a disagreement.
However, in one scene where Ron goes to April's house to try and get her to return to work, April demonstrates that she likewise cares for Ron by revealing she never told anyone about his double life. It was a particularly sweet moment as it showed that they would always have each other's backs - even if they weren't on good .
Tom And Donna's Treat Yo Self Day (S4 Ep4)
Tom and Donna have an unbreakable bond; one that no one else seems to fully share with either one of them. One of their annual traditions is the 'Treat Yo Self Day,' which is designed to allow the friends to live their best lives and really make themselves happy for a day.
Every 'Treat Yo Self' scene demonstrates that the duo really cares for one another and will always make time for the other's person's welfare. While the premise might be a little materialistic, as seen when Ben gets involved, it's ultimately about building each other up.
Leslie Gets Ron A New Job (S7 Ep13)
Leslie Knope knows exactly what would make Ron happy and manages to achieve everything she needs to put her plan into action. Ron hasn't been thrilled with any of his jobs for some time; even running his own business had become far too difficult than it was worth.
However, when Leslie reveals to her friend that she has organized for him to become a Park Ranger, he is completely thrilled. It's perhaps one of the nicest things anyone has ever done for the former boss and Ron is completely in his element, out in nature.
Ann's Leslie Knope Emotional Task Force (S6 Ep7)
Ann and Leslie are best friends and there are countless examples of the two looking out for one another. Leslie especially manages to compliment Ann in a variety of bizarre ways. But one underrated scene that stands out amongst the duo is the creation of the Leslie Knope Emotional Task Force.
Ann has seemingly created this tiny group to Leslie in any way they can. Ben Wyatt is also on the team, but when both Ben and Leslie get incredibly drunk, Ann has to step in as the head of the Task Force. There's a lot of subtlety in this scene framed with a fancy dress party, but a great deal of sweetness as well.
Chris Intervenes In Ben's Life (S4 Ep11)
Many of the characters on Parks & Recreation have strong emotional groups, and one of the best is Chris and Ben's friendship. Ben has had a difficult career, having previously been a disastrous mayor at a very young age. In their years working together, they have developed a strong bond and great teamwork.
When Ben is at his lowest, Chris swoops in to pick him up again. He even takes the time to watch Ben's incredibly short stop motion animation project, before bringing his trademark positivity back into his life. It's one of the reasons why many Parks & Rec fans consider Chris as Ben's BFF.
Andy Introduces Ron To Burritos (S3 Ep2)
It's a simple scene but one that plays off of Ron and Andy's dynamic incredibly well. With Ron looking to try and find a male friend in his life, Andy swoops in like the son he's never had. They begin bonding over simple things like the Meat Tornado but it quickly evolves.
The scene in Ron's office, where the two eat together and discuss football is unlike any other scene featuring Ron. He interacts in a completely different manner, as it's rare to even see him hold a conversation with someone for so long; especially in his prized office.
Leslie And April's Washington Talk (S5 Ep1)
April would attest that when she first started working in the Parks and Rec department, she had very little ambition. However, Leslie Knope brought out a new side of her. Unfortunately, this led to April wanting to work elsewhere, deeply troubling Leslie.
On their trip to Washington D.C., Leslie and April finally have a talk about the future. April thanks Leslie for all of her help, declaring that she actually loves her in a moving scene. April doesn't express emotion well and this was a heartwarming moment for both characters.
Jean-Ralphio Helps Tom With His Speech (S3 Ep9)
Jean-Ralphio is very rarely serious. He's usually selfish and mainly interested in hard cash. Since there are many scenes on Parks & Rec that show how Jean-Ralphio isn't Tom's real friend, it does surprise fans a lot when Jean-Ralphio does a nice thing without having an agenda.
For instance, as Tom struggles to come up with a good speech for Andy and April, Jean-Ralphio tries his hardest to produce a good set of lines. While it's nowhere near perfect, it's a moment where the duo are real with one another. The chemistry is clear to see, but so is the notion that Jean-Ralphio doesn't want to see his friend fail.
Andy And April's Wedding (S3 Ep9)
Andy and April might be one of the most important romantic stories in the show, but they are also best friends. Indeed, the reason they are such a good couple is because of their friendship. They can be completely goofy with one another and they definitely bring out each other's best.
Their wedding is a brilliant moment to signify that friendship. Not caring about the thrills of a normal ceremony, the two have a very non-traditional wedding in their own home. They dress how they want and decorate the place with their interests. Their marriage is a touching scene that demonstrates the friendship at the core of the relationship.
The Final Photograph (S7 Ep13)
Fans have become attached to these characters unlike any other sitcom in history. There was something very real about the Parks and Rec department and it was sad to see the show finally come to an end. But, it had a fitting sendoff which is repeatedly watched by audiences.
The group reunited in the future, at a brand new park. After words of wisdom from Ron and a touching speech from Leslie, they group together for a final photograph, just like the big family they are. After all this time and despite all going their separate ways, they still find a path back to one another.