1 / 2Flushing Meadows Corona Park
π Queens, NY
One of NYC's largest parks on former World's Fair grounds featuring the iconic Unisphere, Queens Zoo, ice skating, swimming pool, and extensive recreation paths. Free park entry; zoo and science museum charge separately.
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families who want a full outdoor day across multiple activities without paying a single entry gate. The park is vast enough to fill a day with free recreation alone - the Unisphere, cycling paths, and open lawns are available to all. Add the Queens Zoo or New York Hall of Science for a structured experience.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β29,888 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Lin Den
9 months ago
βFree public park & size: Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is free to enter and is one of NYCβs largest parks (~897 acres), created on former Worldβs Fair grounds. β’ Iconic landmarks: The parkβs signature sculpture is the Unisphere (1964 Worldβs Fair). Nearby fair relics include the New York State Pavilion (under restoration) and the Fountain of the Planets promenades. β’ Major attractions on-site: Home to Citi Field (Mets), the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (US Open), Queens Museum, New York Hall of Science, Queens Botanical Garden and the Queens Zoo - many are ticketed attractions with separate hours. β’ Recreation & facilities: Expect broad promenades, sports fields, playgrounds, bike paths, a seasonal ice rink / aquatics center, picnic lawns and boat/marina facilities around Flushing Bay. Organized rec programs run at the Al Oerter Recreation Center. β’ Events & seasonal peaks: Big-ticket events (US Open weeks, concerts, Queens Night Market, festivals) change traffic, access and crowds - plan travel and parking accordingly and buy event/ticketed entries in advance. β’ Getting there: Best public transit is 7 train β Mets-Willets Point (or LIRR to Mets-Willets Point) and multiple bus routes; driving uses Grand Central Parkway / Whitestone Expy exits with park lots for big events. For USTA/US Open see the official visitor transport pages. β’ Conservation & capital works: The park has active capital projects (marina pavilion, aquatic center repairs and other upgrades). The New York State Pavilion restoration is a major preservation program. β’ Family & photo tips: Early morning or late afternoon gives quieter promenades and better light for Unisphere and skyline photos; the Queens Botanical Garden and Zoo are especially family-friendly. --- β οΈ What to keep in mind β’ Separate tickets for attractions: Garden, zoo, science museum, USTA grounds and stadium events require separate tickets-park entry β access to every venue. β’ Crowds & transport on event days: US Open and Mets game days bring heavy transit & road demand - prefer transit and arrive early. β’ Restoration & closures: Parts of the park (pavilions, project sites) may be fenced or closed during repairs-check NYC Parks project pages before visiting.β
Nestor Camarillo
11 months ago
βFlushing Meadows-Corona Park is truly one of New York Cityβs greatest treasures. Every visit feels like a walk through history and beauty combined. The park is enormous - full of life, color, and iconic landmarks that make it unforgettable. The Unisphere, with its majestic fountains, is a breathtaking centerpiece that symbolizes global unity and the legacy of the 1964 Worldβs Fair. Around it, youβll find open fields perfect for family picnics, biking, or simply relaxing under the trees. The Queens Zoo is a hidden gem inside the park - clean, well-maintained, and home to a wonderful variety of animals. Itβs the perfect spot for families or anyone who enjoys spending time in nature. Nearby, the Queens Museum offers fascinating exhibitions and a panoramic model of New York City that never fails to impress. Donβt miss the Observation Towers, a symbol of the parkβs Worldβs Fair history - they stand tall as a reminder of innovation and imagination. And if you love photography, youβll find endless views worth capturing - from cherry blossoms in the spring to peaceful lakes and even airplanes soaring overhead.β
Chelsea J
8 months ago
βI like this park so much. Feel free to relax here anytime. And also has swimming pool π ice skating area , fitness room, and a super big park for biking and running β
π¬ What parents mention
Overview
Flushing Meadows Corona Park covers 897 acres in Queens on the grounds of the 1964 World's Fair. The Unisphere - a 140-foot stainless steel globe - anchors the central plaza. Within the park: the Queens Zoo, New York Hall of Science, USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, swimming facilities, an ice skating rink, fitness rooms, and extensive cycling and running paths. Park entry is free; major attractions charge separate admission.










