Phil "Scooter" Rizzuto Park - South Richmond Hill, NY
Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park – A Dog-Friendly Community Hub in South Richmond Hill, New York
Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park, affectionately known as Smokey Oval, is a vibrant community park located in the heart of South Richmond Hill, New York. Spanning just over 4 acres, this well-loved neighborhood gem offers an array of amenities for visitors of all ages and their furry companions. The park features basketball and handball courts, a baseball diamond, playgrounds, fitness stations, public Wi-Fi, and spacious walking paths that are perfect for pet-friendly strolls. Local dog owners often walk their pets here, making it a popular spot for socializing and exercise.
What sets this park apart is its energetic community atmosphere: seasonal events, Zumba classes, and cultural celebrations keep the park lively year-round. While dedicated off-leash or fenced dog play areas are not mentioned, dogs are welcome on-leash, and the park’s open layout and active spirit make it an enjoyable spot for responsible dog owners. Clean restrooms, easy access to public transportation, and an engaging children’s playground add to the park’s convenience. Recent renovations and frequent community activities ensure that Phil Rizzuto Park remains a central gathering place for both people and pets in the Richmond Hill area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are dogs allowed at this park? Yes, many visitors walk their dogs in the park, but owners should keep pets leashed and clean up after them.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No dedicated fenced dog area is mentioned; dogs should remain on leash while visiting.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park features a well-maintained playground and hosts seasonal events and classes for kids and families.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, clean public restrooms are available at the park.
- Is public transportation available to the park? Yes, the park is conveniently located near public transportation routes.
- Are there any special events or classes offered? Yes, the park regularly hosts community events, Zumba sessions, youth sports camps, and cultural gatherings.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? The park is maintained, but some visitors have reported occasional litter or cleanliness concerns, so it’s advisable to bring supplies for your pet just in case.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, seating is available throughout the park.
Reviews
Very nice children’s playing area, dog Friendly Scooter Riding place , washroom very clean , transportation very close to this park
Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park, affectionately known as Smokey Oval, is a small but vibrant 4.35‑acre community hub in South Richmond Hill, Queens. Centered on Atlantic Ave and bounded by 95th Ave and 125th–127th St, the park is named after Yankees legend and local hero Phil Rizzuto—hoisting local pride into something tangible .
🏀 Facilities & Play
The park features basketball and handball courts, a baseball diamond, playground areas, spray showers, fitness equipment, football fields, and even public Wi‑Fi . Though the courts were historically cracked and weedy, the Queens Borough President recently allocated a NULL million renovation fund to upgrade these key areas, addressing flooding, uneven surfaces, and weed overgrowth .
🌳 Community & Events
What Rizzuto Park lacks in acreage, it makes up for with spirit. The “Friends of Phil Rizzuto Smokey Park” group organizes seasonal gatherings from Easter egg hunts to Zumba, arts & crafts, puppet shows, youth basketball camps, movie nights, and autism-awareness walks—showing genuine grassroots engagement .
👥 Demographics & Vibe
This park reflects its culturally rich neighborhood. It’s a meeting place for South Asian traditions like bird racing and Kabaddi, while also serving West Indian and broader QNS communities . It’s lively throughout the day—kids playing, seniors using fitness stations and walking programs, and neighbors chatting informally .
👍 Strengths & Considerations
• Pros: Highly activated by community-led programming; varied athletic infrastructure; ongoing capital investment improving usability; strong cultural inclusivity and visibility.
• Cons: Small size limits natural green space; prior neglected courts and occasional crowding; lack of shaded woodland or extensive landscaping  .
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🌟 Final Thoughts
Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park punches above its weight. Though compact, it thrives on community energy, offering sports, play, events, and cultural cohesion. The recent NULL million court renovations promise safer, more inviting facilities. For local residents and families, it’s a neighborhood gem—an active, well‑loved park that truly captures the spirit of Richmond Hill. If you’re looking for sprawling lawns, head elsewhere—but if you want connection, activity, and heart, this is a Queens park that delivers.
I come here almost every day not Because i love here but because this the only one we have in the neighborhood, its Always dirty ppl who work at the park don’t effort to clean, anyone who wants to come to this park should bring cleaning equipments from home unless you don’t mind working out/playing at a dirty place. I even sometimes see some people smoking and drinking alcohol at the park.
It’s a great area, I get my steps in around the park. I usually see various people walking their pets, resting, and playing lively depending on the time of day and weather of course. The area is maintained often as I’ve seen on my strolls.
Such a lovely park! It’s always lively with cultural events and free Zumba sessions that bring the community together. A great place to relax, get active, and enjoy local culture all in one spot.