Kissena Park
A 235-acre urban oasis in Flushing, Queens, featuring a lake, exotic trees, a historic velodrome, and sports facilities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Kissena Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 235-acre urban oasis in Flushing, Queens, featuring a lake, exotic trees, a historic velodrome, and sports facilities.
"One of my favorite parks in Queens. It has a beautiful lake and you can see some swans."
🐕 Keep Dogs Leashed
Dogs must be on leashes at all times. A dog park is nearby, but not within Kissena Park itself. 🐕
👟 Explore the Trails
Look for subtle signs to find the hiking trails. Great for walking and running! :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 4,325 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kissena Velodrome
Northwest section of the park
The city's only remaining velodrome, a historic track for cycling enthusiasts.
Kissena Lake
Central area of the park
A serene lake, perfect for peaceful strolls and wildlife spotting, often featuring swans.
Exotic Tree Species
Throughout the park
Discover dozens of unique tree species, offering a diverse and educational botanical experience.
Gao Xiao Pa Food Vendor
41-39 Kissena Blvd, Flushing, NY
Sample a unique, ancient recipe burger from a popular local food vendor near the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Safety First in Kissena Park
Navigating Kissena Park's Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐕 Keep Dogs Leashed
Dogs must be on leashes at all times. A dog park is nearby, but not within Kissena Park itself. 🐕
👟 Explore the Trails
Look for subtle signs to find the hiking trails. Great for walking and running! :athletic_shoe:
🚴♀️ Velodrome Cycling
The Kissena Velodrome is a unique spot for safe cycling away from traffic. :cyclist:
🦢 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for swans on the lake and even foxes in the park! 🦊
Tips
from all over the internet
🐕 Keep Dogs Leashed
Dogs must be on leashes at all times. A dog park is nearby, but not within Kissena Park itself. 🐕
👟 Explore the Trails
Look for subtle signs to find the hiking trails. Great for walking and running! :athletic_shoe:
🚴♀️ Velodrome Cycling
The Kissena Velodrome is a unique spot for safe cycling away from traffic. :cyclist:
🦢 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for swans on the lake and even foxes in the park! 🦊
🌳 Botanical Diversity
Appreciate the wide variety of exotic trees throughout the park. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kissena Park is appreciated for its natural beauty, diverse tree species, and the unique Kissena Velodrome. Visitors enjoy the lake, wildlife sightings, and the peaceful atmosphere for walking and running. However, recent safety concerns have been noted by some, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
"Kissena Park is a 235-acre (95 ha) park located in the neighborhood of Flushing in Queens, New York City. It is located along the subterranean Kissena Creek, which flows into the Flushing River.[1] It is bordered on the west by Kissena Boulevard; on the north by Rose, Oak, Underhill, and Lithonia Avenues; on the east by Fresh Meadow Lane; and on the south by Booth Memorial Avenue. The park contains the city's only remaining velodrome, a lake of the same name, two war memorials, and various playgrounds and sports fields.
The site of Kissena Park was originally part of a tree nursery operated by Samuel Parsons in the late 19th century, though parts of the park were also the site of a Long Island Rail Road line. The lake on Parsons's property was named "Kissena", which comes from the Chippewa language meaning "it is cold", "cold place", or "cool water", and the park was later named after the lake. After Parsons died in 1906, part of his former nursery was incorporated in the modern-day park. The name "Kissena Park" can also refer to a residential section of Flushing just north of the park.
Kissena Park opened in 1910, and it was incorporated into Kissena Corridor Park in the mid-1950s. Various improvement projects have been conducted during Kissena Park's history, including the addition of the velodrome in 1962 and restorations of the lake in 1942 and 1983. Subsequently, the Kissena Velodrome was restored and rededicated in 2004, and a Korean War memorial was dedicated in 2007."
Sadman Ahmed
"Top notch, very clean facilities and knowledgeable staff. That really does a good job. This is a template for all New York State in New York City. Parks should aspire to be just like this one. This is the standard you could thank Mr. Walker Park Supervisor for NYC parks Manhattan for his passionate and driven attitude towards making the public safer and accessible for everyone,
Remember everyone keep your dogs on leashes even after dusk this location doesn’t allow dogs off leash at any time of the day although there’s a dog park nearby just Google Maps. This is not the location please for the safety and care of everyone."
IWS
"One of my favorite parks in Queens. It has a beautiful lake and you can see some swans. There's a playground available for those with children. The atmosphere is pleasant and it's a clean park. Winter or summer you will enjoy this beautiful park."
Keyla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kissena Park is accessible by public transportation. Several bus lines run along Kissena Boulevard and nearby streets. For those driving, parking is available, though it can be limited during peak times. The park is also a stop on the Brooklyn-Queens Greenway, making it accessible by bike.
The park is bordered by Kissena Boulevard to the west, Fresh Meadow Lane to the east, and Booth Memorial Avenue to the south. While the park itself is large, individual trail entrances might have subtle signage, so keep an eye out.
Absolutely! Kissena Park is part of the Brooklyn-Queens Greenway, a popular route for cyclists. You can enjoy a scenic ride to the park and utilize the Kissena Velodrome.
Walking and cycling are the most popular ways to explore Kissena Park. The park has numerous trails and paths, including the dedicated Kissena Velodrome for cycling.
The closest subway stations are typically a bit of a walk or bus ride away. The 7 train is the most accessible subway line in the general Flushing area, but direct access to the park usually involves a bus transfer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kissena Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its amenities and natural beauty for free. 🆓
Kissena Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like sports fields or the velodrome may have their own operating hours. It's always a good idea to check for any specific event schedules. 🕐
The Kissena Velodrome is a public facility. While organized events or races might require tickets, general access for cycling is usually free. Check local cycling club schedules for specific events.
The main restriction is keeping dogs on a leash at all times. Other standard park rules apply, such as no littering and respecting park property. [^Review]
For larger gatherings or specific sports field usage, you may need to contact the NYC Parks Department for permit information. Smaller, informal gatherings are generally permitted. 📅
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Kissena Park offers a variety of activities including walking, running, cycling (on trails and the velodrome), fishing in the lake, picnicking, and playground access for children. +1
Yes, Kissena Park has playgrounds and open spaces that are great for kids. There are also nature-focused activities like exploring trees and observing wildlife.
Yes, fishing is permitted in Kissena Lake. Remember to check and adhere to all New York State fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Restroom facilities are available within the park, though their exact locations and condition can vary. It's advisable to check with park staff or local information if you have specific needs. 🚽
While Kissena Park is a beautiful public space, recent incidents have raised safety concerns. Visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially during less crowded times, and consider visiting with others. 
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
There are no formal restaurants within Kissena Park itself. However, the surrounding Flushing neighborhood, particularly Kissena Boulevard, offers a wide array of dining options, including diverse Asian cuisine.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity in Kissena Park. There are open grassy areas perfect for spreading a blanket and enjoying a meal outdoors. :picnic_table:
While not directly inside the park, a notable food vendor, Gao Xiao Pa, is located nearby on Kissena Blvd, serving a unique ancient recipe burger.
The area around Kissena Park, especially Flushing, is renowned for its authentic and diverse Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Korean, and other regional specialties.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the park. Please remember to clean up after yourselves and dispose of trash properly. :beverage_box:
📸 📸 Photography
Kissena Lake offers beautiful reflections and opportunities to photograph swans. The diverse tree species provide stunning backdrops, especially during autumn. The Kissena Velodrome also offers unique architectural shots.
Yes, Kissena Park is home to various wildlife, including swans, turtles, and even foxes. Early mornings or late afternoons can be ideal for spotting and photographing them.
The park's natural beauty, varied landscapes, and mature trees make it a lovely setting for portraits, especially during spring and fall when the foliage is at its best.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits from the NYC Parks Department. Always be respectful of other park visitors. :camerawithflash:
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most flattering light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade from the trees can help.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit