Elmjack Mall

Elmjack Mall, located at Broadway 41, 32 75th St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA, is a truly unique and beloved "scenic spot" in the vibrant landscape of Queens. Despite its name, which might suggest a traditional shopping center, Elmjack Mall is actually a linear park, a strip of carefully cultivated land nestled between the lanes of the road, serving as a green oasis and a focal point for local community life. The name itself is a portmanteau of the adjacent neighborhoods it serves – Elmhurst and Jackson Heights, reflecting its integral connection to both.

The environment of Elmjack Mall offers a welcome respite from the bustling urban surroundings. It is a carefully maintained stretch of greenery, planted with small trees, shrubs, and flowers. This thoughtful landscaping contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the area, providing a natural buffer and a visual anchor in the streetscape. The park's design as a median strip means it’s not a space for expansive recreational activities in the same way a large park would be. Instead, it offers a tranquil environment for contemplation and adds a touch of nature to the daily commute and local strolls.

The standout feature of Elmjack Mall, and indeed its most celebrated aspect, is the charming bronze penguin statue. Affectionately known as "Wink the Penguin," this whimsical figure has become a cherished local mascot and a symbol of the neighborhood's unique character. What truly sets Wink apart is the dedication of community members who regularly dress the penguin in various costumes and decorations, reflecting the season, holidays, or current events. This ongoing artistic endeavor transforms the statue into a dynamic and engaging public art installation, bringing smiles and a sense of shared community spirit to all who pass by. There is also a bronze flamingo sculpture on a boulder at another end of the mall, adding to the quirky charm.

While Elmjack Mall is primarily a green space, its true vibrancy comes alive during specific community events. It is during these occasions, when the road is temporarily blocked off to vehicular traffic, that the "mall" truly functions as a gathering place. These events, though not explicitly detailed in their frequency or nature, are what transform this strip of land into a hub of local interaction and celebration. The park’s unique layout lends itself to pedestrian-friendly events, allowing residents to fully appreciate and utilize the space. The inclusion of such events underscores its role as a vital community asset, fostering connections among neighbors and providing opportunities for shared experiences. For current or upcoming event information, local users are encouraged to look for community announcements or check with NYC Parks, which oversees this public space. The accessibility of the park, being between 37th Avenue and Woodside Avenue, and near the intersection of 75th Street and Broadway, makes it a convenient spot for residents from both Elmhurst and Jackson Heights to gather.

As a "Scenic Spot" in the local community, Elmjack Mall provides an intangible yet invaluable service: enhancing the quality of urban life through greenery, unique public art, and a designated space for community interaction. While there aren't direct "goods or services for sale" in the traditional sense within the park itself, its value lies in the public amenity it offers. The "service" it provides is the enhancement of the urban environment, a touch of whimsy, and a location that facilitates community engagement. The phone number for inquiries related to the park, likely handled by NYC Parks, is (212) 639-9675 or +1 212-639-9675.

For those looking for a pleasant, brief stroll, a spot to appreciate local creativity, or a unique backdrop for a photo, Elmjack Mall offers a delightful experience. It’s a testament to how even small urban spaces can become significant landmarks through community involvement and distinctive features. The ongoing tradition of dressing Wink the Penguin is a promotional element in itself, generating local buzz and drawing attention to this charming corner of Queens. It encourages repeat visits, as locals and visitors alike look forward to seeing Wink's latest ensemble. The fact that the neighborhood actively participates in decorating the statue highlights a strong sense of community ownership and pride.

In summary, Elmjack Mall is far more than just a strip of land; it is a cherished local landmark, a hub for community connection during special events, and a testament to the power of public art to foster local identity. Its continuous evolution through the adornment of Wink the Penguin ensures it remains a dynamic and engaging "scenic spot" for all to enjoy.

Elmjack Mall

Broadway 41, 32 75th St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA