Freshkills Park
A monumental park on Staten Island, transforming the world's largest landfill into NYC's second-largest green space.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Access to special activities
Freshkills Park
Best Time
Access to special activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental park on Staten Island, transforming the world's largest landfill into NYC's second-largest green space.
"The views are absolutely stunning! It's amazing they could turn a landfill into fields of tall grass."
Check Park Schedule First
Park access and events vary. Always check the official Freshkills Park website before your visit! :calendar:
Tick Alert!
Be extremely cautious of ticks, especially in grassy areas. Wear protective clothing and check yourself thoroughly. :bug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Green Landscapes
Various areas of the park
Vast fields of tall grass create a surreal, almost Kansas-like landscape, offering a unique visual experience.
Scenic Bike Paths
Designated bike lanes
Enjoy nearly 4 miles of scenic bike paths, perfect for exploring the park's evolving beauty and taking photos.
Environmental Restoration Projects
Various planting sites
Witness firsthand the incredible ecological transformation as native species are planted to restore habitats and biodiversity.
Stunning City Views
North Mound
Experience absolutely stunning panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape from elevated vantage points.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating a Landfill Transformed
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Park Schedule First
Park access and events vary. Always check the official Freshkills Park website before your visit! :calendar:
Tick Alert!
Be extremely cautious of ticks, especially in grassy areas. Wear protective clothing and check yourself thoroughly. :bug:
Bike Your Way Around
Free bikes are sometimes available, and the extensive bike paths are a highlight. :bicycle:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Park Schedule First
Park access and events vary. Always check the official Freshkills Park website before your visit! :calendar:
Tick Alert!
Be extremely cautious of ticks, especially in grassy areas. Wear protective clothing and check yourself thoroughly. :bug:
Bike Your Way Around
Free bikes are sometimes available, and the extensive bike paths are a highlight. :bicycle:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Transformation
It's a park in progress! Appreciate the unique journey from landfill to green space. :earth_americas:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the stunning views and the ambitious transformation of Freshkills Park from a landfill into a vast green space. The scenic bike paths and the ongoing ecological restoration are major highlights. However, some express concerns about the park's past as a landfill and the presence of ticks.
"THE VIEWS ARE ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!!!
UNFORTUNATELY NOT SURE HOW SAFE IT IS TO BE THERE BECAUSE YOURE WALKING ON OR DIRECTLY NEXT TO THE DUMP."
Nev C
"They had free bikes and a bike path almost 4 miles long. Very scenic and beautiful---great for taking pictures. I can't wait until they finish the park!"
Willow Veytsman
"Really nice place to ride a bike and explore. The park is not entirely opened yet. When I went there was supposed to be a guided birding tour, but it ended up being an "explore" yourself kind of a day which I didn't expect."
Alvin Ho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Freshkills Park is located on Staten Island. You can reach it by car, and parking is available. Public transportation options include buses that stop near the park entrances. Consider taking the Staten Island Ferry for a scenic approach to the island before heading to the park.
Yes, several MTA bus routes serve areas near Freshkills Park. Check the MTA website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules that will get you closest to the park's various entrances.
Absolutely! Many visitors bike to the park, and there are dedicated bike paths within. If you're coming from other boroughs, you can combine it with a ferry ride.
Driving directions will depend on your starting point. Use a GPS navigation app and input 'Freshkills Park, Staten Island, NY'. Be aware that access points and parking availability can vary depending on events and park development stages.
The Staten Island Ferry is a free and scenic way to get to Staten Island. From the ferry terminal, you'll need to take a bus or taxi to reach Freshkills Park. It's a great option if you want to combine sightseeing with your park visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, Freshkills Park is free to enter. However, specific events or guided tours may require advance registration or a fee. Always check the official Freshkills Park website for event details and any potential ticketing requirements.
The park's hours can vary as it is still under development. Some areas might be accessible year-round during daylight hours, while others are only open for specific events or programs. Consult the Freshkills Park Alliance website for the most current information.
While the park is a permanent green space, access to certain areas and the availability of programs may be seasonal. It's best to check the official schedule for any seasonal closures or special operating hours.
Yes, guided tours focusing on various aspects like birdwatching, ecology, or history are often offered. These tours provide valuable insights into the park's transformation and ecosystem. Check the park's event calendar for availability.
For general park access, reservations are typically not needed. However, for popular events, workshops, or guided tours, it's highly recommended to book in advance as spots can fill up quickly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, biking on designated paths, birdwatching, picnicking, and attending various environmental and art events. The park is a dynamic space with ongoing development and programming. 
Freshkills Park has undergone extensive remediation to be safe for public use. However, as it's built on a former landfill, some visitors have noted concerns about past contamination. It's always wise to stay on marked paths and follow park guidelines.
Visitors can see vast open fields, evolving landscapes, public art installations, and enjoy panoramic views from the mounds. It's a testament to ecological restoration and urban transformation.
Facilities are being developed as the park grows. Some areas may have self-composting restrooms and solar-powered amenities, reflecting the park's sustainable design. Check the park's map or website for current facility locations.
Pet policies can vary. It's essential to check the Freshkills Park Alliance website for the most current rules regarding pets, including leash requirements and any restricted areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The expansive fields, rolling hills, and panoramic views from the mounds offer fantastic photo opportunities. The unique landscape created from a former landfill provides a dramatic backdrop.
Yes, especially for capturing the transformation of the landscape and the re-emerging flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for native plants and potential wildlife sightings.
Landscape photography is very popular due to the vast open spaces. Visitors also enjoy capturing the environmental restoration efforts and any public art installations.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always check the park's guidelines if you plan on professional shoots.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but the unique textures of the park can still be captured.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic landscapes. The bike paths are also a great way for families to explore together, though ensure children are comfortable cycling longer distances. Check the park's schedule for any family-friendly events or educational programs that might be available during your visit. Remember to be vigilant about ticks, as they can be present in grassy areas, and take appropriate precautions for your children.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the park's commitment to ecological restoration. The opportunity to witness the transformation of a former landfill into a thriving green space is unparalleled. Hiking trails are also available, allowing for exploration on foot. Be prepared for the elements, as the park is quite exposed, and always check the weather forecast before your visit.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers
Participating in volunteer planting events or attending educational programs offers a deeper understanding of the park's mission. You can learn about native species, habitat restoration, and the challenges and successes of transforming a massive landfill into a biodiverse ecosystem. The park's innovative use of solar power and composting further highlights its commitment to eco-friendly practices.
+2Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Transformation: From Landfill to Park
+1The transformation is not just about creating green space; it's about ecological healing. Native plant species are being reintroduced to restore habitats and promote biodiversity, turning a site of waste into a thriving ecosystem. Visitors can witness this process firsthand through volunteer planting events and educational programs. The park's design emphasizes sustainability, incorporating features like on-site solar power and self-composting restrooms in some areas.
+2While the park is a testament to successful remediation, it's important for visitors to be aware of its history. Some online discussions and reviews mention lingering concerns or observations of rust-colored runoff, attributed to minerals from the decomposition process. However, the park authorities maintain that the site is safe for public access, and visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails and follow all posted guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Exploring Freshkills Park: Activities and Experiences
Beyond biking, the park is ideal for walking and hiking. The expansive fields and rolling hills provide a sense of open space rarely found in New York City. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, with ongoing efforts to reintroduce species and restore habitats. Visitors can also participate in volunteer events, such as planting native species, which offers a hands-on way to contribute to the park's ecological restoration.
+1As Freshkills Park continues to develop, more amenities and programmed events are being introduced. Visitors can expect to find public art installations, educational programs, and seasonal activities. It's recommended to check the Freshkills Park Alliance website for the latest information on what's happening during your planned visit, ensuring you don't miss out on any special opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit