Gantry State Plaza Park
Gantry Plaza State Park is a 12-acre riverside oasis that boasts spectacular views of the midtown Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building and the United Nations. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the park’s four piers or through the park’s manicured gardens and unique mist fountain. Along the way take a moment to admire the rugged beauty of the park’s centerpieces – restored gantries. These industrial monuments were once used to load and unload rail car floats and barges; today they are striking reminders of our waterfront’s past. With the city skyline as a backdrop and the gantries as a stage, the park’s plaza is a wonderful place to enjoy a spring or summer concert. Recreational facilities include basketball courts, playgrounds, handball courts, and a fishing pier with its own cleaning table.
Just south of Gantry State park is Hunter’s South Point Park.
Hunter’s Point South Park
This waterfront park was until recently an abandoned post-industrial area in Long Island City. Transformed into a space that offers fun and relaxation for everyone in the area, the new park includes a central green, playgrounds, adult fitness equipment a dog run, a bike way, a waterside promenade, picnic terraces a basketball court, a 30-foot-tall cantilevered platform for viewing the skyline and waterfront, and a 13,000 square foot pavilion that contains comfort stations, concessions, and an elevated cafe plaza.
Rockaway Beach
From surfers to swimmers to the Ramones, everyone wants to “hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach.” Rockaway Beach is a year-round resource for residents all along the Rockaway peninsula, and it comes alive each summer from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend with millions of visitors.
Beach goers can enjoy the sand and water, the variety of concessions, and the city’s only legal surfing beach, located between 67-69 Street and 87-92 Street. Rockaway Beach is also home to a variety of playgrounds and other outdoor activities.
Flushing Meadows Park
One of the city’s most iconic parks, and the site of two twentieth century World’s Fairs, Flushing Meadows Corona Park continues to draw and delight visitors. From historic walks, to scenic trails, to sports and activities, there’s always something to do here. You can play soccer, baseball, tennis, volleyball, cricket and more; work out at our recreation center or our indoor pool; explore the park’s lakes and trails by foot, bike, or kayak; or visit one of the park’s many cultural and civic institutions.
Spend your day in a park that has it all!
Kissena Park
Kissena Park is an ideal location to both relax and participate in fun outdoor activities. The beautiful Kissena Lake, flanked by weeping willows and shady trees, creates an idyllic setting to enjoy a sunny day. Stroll through the park to take in all of the lush flora and fauna and be sure not to miss the historic tree grove.
After taking in the beauty of Kissena Park, get active at one of the park’s many recreational facilities. Try and beat your best time on the bike at the Kissena Park Velodrome. Or play a round of golf at the Kissena public course. And of course there are lots of playgrounds, baseball diamonds, and tennis and handball courts for all to use. So whether or not you are looking for some action or you’d prefer some rest and relaxation, Kissena Park is the perfect venue.
Queens Botanical Garden
Queens Botanical Garden (QBG) is an urban oasis where people, plants, and cultures are celebrated through inspiring gardens, innovative educational programs, and real-world applications of environmental stewardship.
QBG is located on property owned by the City of New York, and its operation is made possible in part by public funds provided through the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, Queens Borough President, the New York City Council, State elected officials, the New York State Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, along with corporate, foundation, and individual supporters.
Queens Museum
The Queens Museum is best known for it’s scale size model of NYC. Dedicated to presenting the highest quality visual arts and educational programming for people in the New York metropolitan area, and particularly for the residents of Queens, a uniquely diverse, ethnic, cultural, and international community.
The Museum fulfills its mission by designing and providing art exhibitions, public programs and educational experiences that promote the appreciation and enjoyment of art, support the creative efforts of artists, and enhance the quality of life through interpreting, collecting, and exhibiting art, architecture, and design.
The Queens Museum presents artistic and educational programs and exhibitions that directly relate to the contemporary urban life of its constituents, while maintaining the highest standards of professional, intellectual, and ethical responsibility.
Queens Zoo
Whether you’re hoping to inspire a budding wildlife lover, or passionate about animals and want to continue your education, the Wildlife Conservation Society has the program for you. We’re proud to offer options for all ages, education levels, and interests. Explore the programs at our five zoos and aquarium throughout NYC and in the field and choose the next step in your conservation journey.