Gantry Plaza State Park

Discovered this park when I was trying to find a good viewing spot for July 4th (2015) Fireworks.. Neither any of the blogs nor the Macy's website listed this place to view the fireworks but it was a hidden gem!! We arrived at 4 PM and got our free entry wrist-bands. At 5 PM the entry was closed so we were lucky to get in and witness the grand fireworks ! My research helped ;)

Day or Night the view you have of NYC from this waterfront park is simply spectacular. I love how they've transformed the Long Island City waterfront into a spacious urban oasis.

This review is for the playground, not the entire park. Here's the thing, yes, the views are incredible. Wonderful location, no doubt. And cool, new age playground equipment. All great positives. But here's the catch: no toddler swings. How can a state of the art playground in the 21st century not have a high stock of toddler swings? Also, as of summer 2015, the water feature is busted and the signs that were posted said it would be fixed; but, alas, it never was. Anyway, this place is a family destination. The playground is still a lot of fun.

One of the best parks in New York City. Stroll along the river enjoying breathtaking views of Manhattan's skyline, watch the seaplanes take off for the Hamptons, and even listen to some live music on select Friday and Saturday evenings.

One of the best parks around NYC. Along the Queens waterfront and across from midtown manhattan. It's one of the best skyline views in town. Also of the Queensboro bridge. Even the iconic Pepsi sign stands here. Ample space with lots of benches to relax and view the skyline and greenspace to sit down in the summer. You'll find the local kayak boathouse here as well and on summer weekends you'll get free kayaking on the east river. Lot's of new condos along the stretch and a great queens flea nearby for great eats, a beer garden, and shopping. One of those parks you can just relax and enjoy NYC.