Gantry Plaza State Park New York City
A 12-acre waterfront oasis in Long Island City offering breathtaking Manhattan skyline views and historic industrial charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Gantry Plaza State Park New York City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 12-acre waterfront oasis in Long Island City offering breathtaking Manhattan skyline views and historic industrial charm.
"The best views of Manhattan are from Queens at Gantry Plaza State Park!"
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catch the golden hour for incredible skyline photos. Arrive early to snag a prime spot!
🚢 Scenic Ferry Ride
Take the NYC Ferry for a beautiful approach to the park. Stops around 3 PM for fireworks, so plan ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Manhattan Skyline Views
Along the East River waterfront
Unobstructed, postcard-perfect panoramas of the iconic Manhattan skyline, especially stunning at sunset.

Historic Gantries
Throughout the park
Explore the remnants of the former Long Island Rail Road car float transfer bridges, a unique industrial heritage.

Pepsi-Cola Sign
Near Pier 1
A beloved, retro landmark offering a classic New York photo opportunity with the city as a backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catch the golden hour for incredible skyline photos. Arrive early to snag a prime spot!
🚢 Scenic Ferry Ride
Take the NYC Ferry for a beautiful approach to the park. Stops around 3 PM for fireworks, so plan ahead!
first timer
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll want to stroll the piers. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the park's expanse.
🍣 Delicious Lunch Options
Grab a bento at Mogmog or enjoy lunch specials at Hibino or Dai Hachi.
Good sit down weekday lunch spot within a 10 min walk of Gantry Park
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catch the golden hour for incredible skyline photos. Arrive early to snag a prime spot!
🚢 Scenic Ferry Ride
Take the NYC Ferry for a beautiful approach to the park. Stops around 3 PM for fireworks, so plan ahead!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll want to stroll the piers. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the park's expanse.
🍣 Delicious Lunch Options
Grab a bento at Mogmog or enjoy lunch specials at Hibino or Dai Hachi.
📸 Iconic Photo Ops
Don't miss the Pepsi-Cola sign and the historic gantries for unique shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gantry Plaza State Park is widely praised for its spectacular Manhattan skyline views and historic industrial charm. Visitors love the peaceful atmosphere, especially during weekdays, and the iconic Pepsi-Cola sign. Some find parking challenging and note that it can get crowded during peak times and special events.
"Beautiful park right on the water, with great views of the skyline. A perfect place for photography. There are plenty of people enjoying the space but it didn't feel crowded. Highly recommend watching the sunset across the city from here."
Riley Scott Jacob
"Such a beautiful view from here. The waterfront is great for taking pictures. The landscape is awesome. Great view of Manhattan, and just a ferry ride away. Love it...🥰"
Haniffa Mohammed
"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"
M. S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Gantry Plaza State Park via the NYC Ferry, which offers scenic views as you approach. The 7 train to Vernon Blvd-Jackson Ave station is also a convenient option, followed by a short walk.
While street parking can be challenging in Long Island City, there are several parking garages available nearby. However, public transportation or ride-sharing services are often recommended for ease of access.
Yes, the 7 train to Vernon Blvd-Jackson Ave station is the closest subway stop to Gantry Plaza State Park. From there, it's a brief walk to the park entrance.
For July 4th fireworks, take the ferry but be aware service stops around 3 PM. Arrive by 2 PM to secure a good spot, as it gets very crowded.
The park is generally accessible with paved paths and ramps, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Enjoy the waterfront promenade and piers with ease.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Gantry Plaza State Park is free to enter and open to the public. You can enjoy the views and amenities without any admission cost.
The park is typically open daily from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary slightly by season, so it's always a good idea to check the official New York State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
Dogs are welcome in Gantry Plaza State Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
Yes, restrooms are available within Gantry Plaza State Park, typically located near the main entrances and along the piers.
No, tickets are not required for Gantry Plaza State Park as it is a public park. Entry is free and open to all visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront promenade offers unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, especially during sunset. The historic gantries and the iconic Pepsi-Cola sign are also prime locations for memorable photos.
Sunset provides the most dramatic lighting for photographing the Manhattan skyline. The 'golden hour' before sunset and the 'blue hour' just after offer stunning, colorful skies.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in New York State Parks, including Gantry Plaza State Park, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Always check park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive skyline and park features. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific buildings. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light photography during sunset and evening.
For professional photoshoots, permits may be required. It's best to contact the New York State Parks department in advance to inquire about regulations and obtain any necessary permissions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several dining options near Gantry Plaza State Park. Reddit users recommend Mogmog for bento boxes, Hibino for lunch specials, and Dai Hachi for sushi lunch specials.
For weekday lunches, consider Sami's Kebab & Safir Mediterranean on Vernon Ave, or Baroness. Hibino's lunch special and Dai Hachi's sushi lunch specials are also highly praised.
Absolutely! Gantry Plaza State Park is a fantastic spot for a picnic. There are plenty of open grassy areas and benches where you can relax and enjoy your meal with a view.
Yes, Dai Hachi is mentioned as having outdoor seating and great sushi lunch specials. Many establishments along Vernon Avenue also offer outdoor dining options.
Long Island City offers a diverse culinary scene. You'll find options ranging from Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine to Japanese sushi and bento boxes, catering to various tastes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the clean restrooms and the availability of picnic areas, making it easy to spend a full day at the park. The calm waters of the East River and the absence of heavy traffic within the park contribute to a secure atmosphere. Plus, the iconic views of Manhattan can spark curiosity and wonder in young minds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Walkers & Joggers
With multiple piers extending into the river, you can easily extend your walk or run, creating varied routes. The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for most fitness levels. Enjoy the fresh air and the dynamic cityscape as your backdrop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Skyline Views
To truly appreciate these views, timing is key. Many visitors recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset or the 'blue hour' just after, when the sky is painted with vibrant colors. The reflections on the East River add another layer of beauty to the scene. Whether you're a photographer seeking the perfect shot or simply looking to soak in the atmosphere, the skyline views are the park's undeniable main attraction.
Exploring the Historic Gantries
These gantries are not just historical markers; they also add a unique architectural element to the park. Their imposing scale and weathered appearance create a striking contrast with the natural beauty of the waterfront and the modern cityscape beyond. Walking among them provides a sense of scale and a glimpse into the industrial past that shaped Long Island City.
For those interested in industrial heritage, the gantries are a must-see. They serve as a powerful reminder of the area's past as a bustling hub of commerce and transportation, offering a different perspective than the typical tourist attractions.
Culinary Delights in Long Island City
Other recommended dining establishments include Dai Hachi, known for its outdoor seating and excellent sushi lunch specials, and Turkish eateries like Sami's Kebab & Safir Mediterranean on Vernon Avenue. Baroness is also mentioned as a solid choice for a sit-down meal. This variety ensures that visitors can find something to satisfy their cravings, whether they're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with a view.
When planning your visit, consider incorporating a culinary stop into your itinerary. Grabbing a meal from one of these local gems and enjoying it by the waterfront is a quintessential Long Island City experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit