Hunters Point Community Park

Located in the vibrant borough of Queens, NY 11101, Hunters Point Community Park, officially known as Hunter's Point South Park, is a remarkable transformation of a former industrial waterfront into a thriving public green space. As a premier "Scenic Spot," this park offers local users an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. It serves as a vital hub for community life in Long Island City, providing diverse experiences for visitors of all ages.

The environment of Hunter's Point South Park is truly exceptional, defined by its expansive waterfront setting along the East River. Spanning over 22 acres, the park is a testament to innovative urban planning and resilient design. It features a sprawling central green, ideal for picnics, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the open space. The park's design seamlessly integrates natural elements with modern amenities, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere. Lush landscaping with diverse plant life contributes to its aesthetic appeal and ecological value. A significant highlight is the extensive waterside promenade, perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or biking, offering continuous, unobstructed views of the iconic Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building. The park also boasts unique elements such as newly established wetlands, which not only enhance biodiversity but also play a crucial role in the park's flood resiliency. The overall ambiance is one of spaciousness and tranquility, providing a stark contrast to the urban density, while still offering the excitement of city views. The careful consideration of sustainable practices, such as stormwater management and the use of native plantings, further enriches the park's environment, making it a green and resilient urban oasis.

As a leading "Scenic Spot," Hunter's Point South Park provides an extensive array of services and facilities that cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. For recreation, the park includes well-maintained playgrounds, adult fitness equipment, a dedicated dog run, a basketball court, and sand volleyball courts. An oval-shaped turf field offers versatile space for various activities. A crucial service is the presence of public restrooms, ensuring comfort for visitors during their stay. The park also features picnic terraces, providing designated areas for outdoor dining and social gatherings. For those looking for refreshments, there is often a concession stand or cafe, such as LIC Landing, located conveniently near the East River Ferry Terminal, where visitors can purchase food and drinks from early morning through dinner. While not selling goods in a retail sense, these concessions enhance the visitor experience. Furthermore, the Hunters Point Parks Conservancy, a non-profit organization, is highly active in the park, offering a wealth of free public programs and services. These include over 200 free events annually, such as yoga and fitness sessions, kids' programs, movie nights (Cinema LIC), art classes (like Watercolors on the Waterfront and Nature Journaling), and environmental education programs. They also organize volunteer gardening opportunities, fostering community engagement and park stewardship. The Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center also provides public paddle and environmental education programs, further expanding the services available.

Hunter's Point South Park is distinguished by several unique features that make it a truly remarkable "Scenic Spot." Its most celebrated feature is undoubtedly the "30-foot-tall cantilevered platform," an architectural marvel that extends over the tidal marsh, offering what many consider to be the "best view of the Manhattan skyline." This elevated overlook provides a dramatic and immersive experience of the city's iconic landmarks. Another notable feature is "Luminescence," a permanent art installation by Nobuho Nagasawa, comprising seven concrete domes that represent the phases of the moon and glow at night, creating a magical visual effect. The park's design incorporates innovative flood resiliency measures, such as bioswales, stormwater planters, porous pavement, and a constructed stormwater wetland, demonstrating a "Living with Water" approach to protect the neighborhood from future flood patterns. Its industrial heritage is subtly referenced through elements like the "rail garden," which utilizes historic rail tracks within planting beds. The park's seamless connection with the adjacent Gantry Plaza State Park allows visitors to traverse between the two without realizing they've moved from a city-owned to a state-owned park, collectively offering over 20 acres of continuous waterfront green space. Other specific amenities include kayak launches for water access and even chess boards for intellectual recreation. The park has received numerous design awards, underscoring its excellence in landscape architecture and urban planning.

For local users and visitors to New York City, Hunter's Point Community Park is an indispensable destination, a promotional highlight for the entire Long Island City area. We enthusiastically invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty and vitality of this extraordinary "Scenic Spot." Whether you're seeking a serene escape, an active outdoor experience, or a family-friendly outing, Hunter's Point South Park delivers. "One of the standout moments for me was enjoying the stunning city view from the rooftop," remarked a recent visitor to a nearby hotel, a sentiment widely shared by park-goers who revel in the breathtaking panoramas. The park's accessibility via the East River Ferry and its proximity to the 7 train make it an incredibly convenient destination. Take advantage of the free fitness classes, catch a movie under the stars, or simply find a bench along the promenade and soak in the majestic skyline. The park is a testament to thoughtful urban development, providing a vibrant community hub that offers both relaxation and recreation. Come and explore the diverse offerings of Hunter's Point Community Park – from its resilient wetlands to its spectacular overlooks – and discover why it is consistently celebrated as one of New York City's most dynamic and cherished waterfront parks.

Hunters Point Community Park

Queens, NY 11101, USA