Overview
Gantry Plaza State Park is a waterfront park located in Long Island City, Queens, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. The park features historic gantries, public art installations, and a pier for fishing and boating.
The park is known for its historic gantries, which were once used for loading and unloading cargo from ships. It also offers one of the best views of the Manhattan skyline.
Location
Address
Coordinates: 40.7468866631964, -73.95821823246969
Neighborhood: Queens
Coordinates
40.746887, -73.958218
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds and better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Blooming flowers
- • Mild weather
summer
Warm to hot
- • Extended park hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
Cool to mild
- • Fall foliage
- • Cool weather
winter
Cold
- • Holiday lights
- • Ice skating
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring water and sunscreen
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate
- • Stay hydrated
- • Watch for slippery surfaces
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable walking shoes, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required for general admission
- • Official website
- • Not applicable
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
NY State Parks
Size: 50 MB
Features: Park information, Maps, Event calendars
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a peaceful escape from the city with stunning views
Historical Significance: The gantries were originally used for loading and unloading cargo from ships
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best photos
- Check out the local food trucks
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cafes in Long Island City
- • Visit nearby museums like MoMA PS1
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Gantry Plaza
Best Time: Golden hour (sunset)
Tips: Use the gantries as a frame for the Manhattan skyline
Result: Stunning photos with the Manhattan skyline in the background
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA PS1)
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 minutes
Type: Museum
Socrates Sculpture Park
Distance: 500 m
Walking: 7 minutes
Type: Park
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during golden hour"
- "Bring a camera"
- "Check out the local cafes"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
2
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free