Gantry Plaza State Park - Long Island City, NY
Gantry Plaza State Park is a stunning waterfront destination in Long Island City, New York, renowned for its iconic views of the Manhattan skyline. This dog-friendly park offers a welcoming atmosphere for both pet owners and families alike, with plentiful green spaces and scenic pet-friendly trails perfect for dog walks or a day out with your furry companion. Whether you want to stroll along the river, enjoy a picnic, or soak up the dramatic city views, Gantry Plaza caters to all.
The park is rich with amenities, including playgrounds, sports courts, onsite restrooms, and picnic areas. The wide paved paths are ideal for leashed dogs and accessible to all, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a wheelchair-accessible dog park in Long Island City. Free, paid, and onsite parking options, as well as nearby public transport and ferry access, make it easy to visit. Enjoy a relaxing day out with plenty of seating, shade, and even seasonal events like outdoor concerts—all just steps away from dog-friendly restaurants and local attractions like the famous Pepsi Cola sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed. There is a designated dog park area in Gantry Plaza State Park.
- Are there paved walking paths for dogs and owners? Yes, the park has wide, paved walking and biking paths along the waterfront that are suitable for leashed dogs.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, Gantry Plaza State Park features a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot.
- Are there seating areas and shaded spots? Yes, there are plenty of benches and seating areas throughout the park, including shaded spots and covered picnic tables.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available onsite.
- Is there parking available? Yes, free street parking, paid street parking, and onsite parking are all available.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a playground and several sports facilities, making the park ideal for families.
- Are there special events offered? Yes, the park hosts events like outdoor concerts and movie screenings, especially during the summer months.
- Are there benches or seating for owners? Yes, ample benches and picnic tables offer comfortable seating for pet owners throughout the park.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, the park encourages picnicking with dedicated picnic areas.
Reviews
Breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline! Perfect spot for a picnic or sunset viewing. The park’s waterfront location offers stunning views of the new york city, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.
Love the walking and biking paths along the waterfront! Great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. The park’s playground and sports facilities are top-notch, making it an excellent spot for families. Kayaking and paddleboarding rentals are available, offering a unique perspective on the city. There are plenty of seating areas, restrooms, and food vendors make for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
The park’s events and programming, such as outdoor concerts and movie screenings, are a great bonus. Highly recommend for a relaxing afternoon stroll. Great spot for a picnic, walk, or bike ride along the waterfront.
We took a relaxing stroll alongside the park’s four piers and gardens which has a unique mist fountain. The name of Gantry Plaza came about from the LIRR having a whole freight operation going with railcars and barges shipping goods between Queens and Manhattan. Huge loading bridges called gantries took cargo back and forth. It has the Pepsi sign that’s now a landmark in the park. It’s a great place to enjoy a great time along the river!
It’s a wonderful park, with truly unique views of Manhattan. And it’s only getting better every year. A ferry service is a fun way to travel to or back. And it’s great that some part of the history of the old port there is preserved. There are also a lot of great restaurants in the area and fun concerts in the summertime.
Even on a gray, overcast day, Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City is a breath of fresh air. The dramatic skyline views of Manhattan take on a moody, cinematic quality when framed by low-hanging clouds, and the East River shimmers with a quiet, reflective beauty. The park is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with ample seating, wide walking paths, and pockets of green space that invite peaceful moments. Even when the sun isn’t shining.
It is a beautiful place to walk / sit and enjoy the beautiful skyline view.
Go on a cool day, and the vibe is just amazing.
There are people walking their dogs, some are exercising, someone is playing music, you name it, and it’s happening. It’s such a scenic, happy place.
Don’t forget to take a picture with the Pepsi cola sign.
We took a ferry to visit here, so I’ve no idea about parking