Dry Harbor Forest Park

Dry Harbor Forest Park, situated at the intersection of Myrtle Avenue and 88th Street in Ridgewood, Queens, New York, is a vital section of the sprawling Forest Park, one of New York City's premier urban green spaces. Categorized as a "Scenic Spot," this park offers a wide array of recreational opportunities and natural features, serving as a significant hub for community activity and a serene escape from the urban environment.

While no specific phone numbers are provided for Dry Harbor Forest Park itself, it falls under the jurisdiction of NYC Parks. General inquiries about Forest Park and its amenities can typically be directed to the NYC Parks main phone number. Its address, Myrtle Ave & 88th St, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA, indicates a prominent and accessible location within the neighborhood, making it a convenient destination for local residents.

The environment of Dry Harbor Forest Park is diverse, encompassing both active recreational areas and more natural, forested sections. It is part of the larger Forest Park, which spans over 500 acres. The park's terrain is a fascinating remnant of the Wisconsin glacier, which molded the land 20,000 years ago, leaving behind the "Harbor Hill Moraine" and creating a distinctive series of small hills known as "knob and kettle" terrain. This geological feature contributes significantly to the park's scenic beauty and offers varied landscapes for exploration. The park's namesake, "Dry Harbor," derives from the original name for Glendale, which was once described as appearing like a harbor with no water when viewed from Cooper Avenue across the valley to Forest Park. This historical connection adds a layer of depth to the park's identity.

User reviews highlight the park's multi-faceted environment. One reviewer notes it's a "Big park" with "Bands hell, skate park, basketball courts and playground," indicating a lively atmosphere with diverse facilities for different age groups and interests. Another reviewer mentions using the park "to gain access to bike Greenway underpasses tunnel crossed the JR parkways," suggesting its role as a connective tissue within the larger urban greenway network. The observation of "many kids enjoyed the swings, the sprinkler playground," paints a picture of a family-friendly environment, particularly during warmer months. The suggestion to change the "concrete ballfield should change to synthetic turf" points to ongoing community engagement and desires for modern improvements.

The services and features available at Dry Harbor Forest Park are extensive and cater to a wide range of recreational needs:

• Playgrounds: Specifically, Dry Harbor Playground is a notable feature within this section of Forest Park. It was originally constructed in 1934 and has undergone renovations to include modern amenities. It often features swings, slides, a wading pool with a spray head (sprinkler playground), and various play equipment. The nautical-themed Dry Harbor Playground in Glendale is specifically mentioned as having a spray shower, basketball courts, bocce courts, and a softball field.
• Sports Facilities: The park boasts basketball courts and a concrete ballfield (though synthetic turf is suggested by a reviewer). Forest Park as a whole offers a wide array of sports facilities including tennis courts, softball fields, football fields, soccer fields, and handball courts, making it a comprehensive destination for athletes and casual players alike.
• Skate Park: The presence of a skate park provides a dedicated space for skateboarding and rollerblading enthusiasts.
• George Seuffert, Sr., Bandshell: This iconic venue within Forest Park hosts seasonal performances and events, offering public restrooms and parking. It is a major cultural amenity that draws visitors for concerts and community gatherings. While not directly within the "Dry Harbor Forest Park" area, its proximity enhances the overall offerings of Forest Park for residents using the Dry Harbor access.
• Greenway and Bike Path Access: The park serves as a gateway to broader bike greenways and underpasses that cross parkways, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to travel safely and continuously through the urban landscape. The "curved ramp entrance at Myrtle & 80th" is specifically highlighted as a nice access point for these paths.
• Natural Areas and Trails: Beyond the active recreational zones, Forest Park features over 165 acres of natural forest with marked hiking trails, allowing for peaceful walks, nature observation, and exploration of the unique 'knob and kettle' terrain.
• Seating Areas: Benches are available for rest and relaxation, providing opportunities for visitors to sit and enjoy the park's atmosphere.

Promotional information for Dry Harbor Forest Park, as a "Scenic Spot," emphasizes its versatility and accessibility. It is promoted as a large park offering "something for everyone," from active sports to quiet contemplation. The existence of various dedicated areas like playgrounds and a skate park makes it particularly appealing to families and youth. Its role as an access point to the wider bike greenway network is a significant draw for cyclists and runners, promoting the idea of extended outdoor excursions. The historical context of "Dry Harbor" and the geological uniqueness of the "knob and kettle" terrain add an educational and intriguing dimension to the park's appeal. The vibrant community use, evident in the reviews mentioning "bands hell" and numerous people engaging in activities, showcases it as a lively and welcoming public space. NYC Parks continually promotes its facilities through various channels, highlighting amenities, events, and the benefits of spending time in green spaces. For residents of Ridgewood and surrounding areas, Dry Harbor Forest Park is presented as a comprehensive urban park where natural beauty meets diverse recreational opportunities, making it an essential local resource for health, leisure, and community engagement.

Dry Harbor Forest Park

Myrtle Ave & 88th St, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA