
Shirley Chisholm State Park
Brooklyn's largest state park, transformed from a landfill into a 407-acre green oasis with trails, bike rentals, and stunning Jamaica Bay views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free bike rentals available

Shirley Chisholm State Park
Best Time
Free bike rentals available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brooklyn's largest state park, transformed from a landfill into a 407-acre green oasis with trails, bike rentals, and stunning Jamaica Bay views.
"A beautiful escape from the city without having to leave it—incredibly peaceful and refreshing."

🎯 Free Bike Rentals!
Don't miss the free bike library (Thurs-Sun, 10 AM-4 PM, seasonal). Reserve online or try for a walk-in spot!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The park is large with lots of walking/biking. Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free Bike Library
Various locations within the park
Explore miles of scenic trails on a complimentary bike. Available Thurs-Sun, 10 AM-4 PM (seasonal).

Jamaica Bay Views
Waterfront areas
Enjoy panoramic vistas of Jamaica Bay and the NYC skyline from this transformed landfill.

Birdwatching Haven
Various natural areas
A surprising spot for birding, with sightings of unique species like snowy owls.

Picnic & Relaxation Spots
Designated picnic areas
Shaded tables and serene spots perfect for a family picnic or quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Bike Rentals & Access
Getting There Without a Car
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Bike Rentals!
Don't miss the free bike library (Thurs-Sun, 10 AM-4 PM, seasonal). Reserve online or try for a walk-in spot!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The park is large with lots of walking/biking. Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
🦉 Great for Birding
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, including rare sightings like snowy owls.
🚗 Free Parking Available
If driving, you'll find free public parking within the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Bike Rentals!
Don't miss the free bike library (Thurs-Sun, 10 AM-4 PM, seasonal). Reserve online or try for a walk-in spot!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The park is large with lots of walking/biking. Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
🦉 Great for Birding
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, including rare sightings like snowy owls.
🚗 Free Parking Available
If driving, you'll find free public parking within the park.
🚽 Restroom Availability
Portable toilets are available throughout the park for convenience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Shirley Chisholm State Park as a 'hidden gem' in Brooklyn, praising its peaceful atmosphere, extensive trails, and the fantastic free bike library. It's a beautiful escape offering scenic views of Jamaica Bay and the NYC skyline, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
"Beautiful park! My first time here and it was so nice. The park is huge with lots of trails to bike or walk. I participated in Penn Bike Library where you are able to ride a bike free of charge around the park. It’s very relaxing especially with all the scenic views. Will definitely come here again with the family."
Franny Bae
"Beautiful walking and biking trails. Restrooms in the form of portapotty but okay. Picnic areas throughout and beautiful waterfront areas for fishing.
You can also access Carnarsie Pier for additional waterfront spaces."
Vanessa Bryant
"Beautiful and very clean park. Bike paths are very comfortable. Restrooms and stations with drinkable fresh water are also available"
Be Happy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While public transport can be a bit of a journey, several bus routes can get you close to Shirley Chisholm State Park. It's recommended to use a journey planner app to find the most efficient route from your location. Some visitors find it challenging without a car, so plan ahead.
Yes, there is free public parking available at Shirley Chisholm State Park, making it accessible for those who choose to drive.
Shirley Chisholm State Park is located in southeastern Brooklyn, New York, situated just off the Belt Parkway, west of JFK Airport.
Shirley Chisholm State Park is located near the Gateway Shopping Center. While accessible, getting there without a car might require some planning regarding public transport routes.
Shirley Chisholm State Park is generally open from 8 AM, with the last entry typically around 7:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check official park sources for any seasonal changes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Shirley Chisholm State Park is free. You do not need to purchase tickets to access the park grounds, trails, and general amenities.
The park offers a fantastic free bike library! You can rent bikes at no cost, available Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM, typically running through the end of October. Reservations can be made on Eventbrite, or you can try for a walk-in spot.
Shirley Chisholm State Park is a public park and does not have an admission fee. Enjoy the vast green space and amenities for free.
The park generally opens at 8 AM and the last entry is usually around 7:30 PM. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to confirm with official park information.
Yes, you can reserve a spot for the free bike rentals through Eventbrite. Walk-ins are also accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a variety of activities including biking (with free rentals available seasonally), hiking on 10 miles of trails, fishing from piers, picnicking in shaded areas, and birdwatching.
Yes, restrooms are available in the form of portable toilets located at various points throughout the park.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the open spaces, picnic areas, and the free bike library. It's a great spot for a day out with children.
The park offers sweeping views over Jamaica Bay and a glimpse of the NYC skyline. It's a beautiful natural escape within the city.
Yes, there are peaceful fishing piers available for visitors who enjoy fishing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no permanent restaurants within the park, visitors can bring their own food for picnics. Occasionally, special events may feature food vendors.
Yes, Shirley Chisholm State Park has numerous picnic areas with tables and canopies, making it an ideal spot for a picnic.
Yes, there are stations with drinkable fresh water available throughout the park, which is very convenient for visitors.
It's recommended to bring your own food, plenty of water to drink, and any other picnic essentials you might need.
The park sometimes hosts events, especially during the summer, which may include various food vendors. For example, a Caribbean event was mentioned for June 21st, 2025.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront areas offering views of Jamaica Bay and the NYC skyline are prime spots. The diverse flora and fauna, especially during bird migrations, also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, the park is known for its birdwatching opportunities, with rare sightings like snowy owls reported. It's a great location for nature photography.
Late afternoon, especially around sunset, offers beautiful golden hour lighting for capturing the scenic views. Early mornings can also be serene and less crowded.
The park's transformation from a landfill to a green space offers a unique narrative. The juxtaposition of urban nature and the former industrial site can be visually compelling.
Drone usage regulations can vary and are often restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's advisable to check with park authorities or the NYS DEC for current drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Active Adventurers
🌳 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of Shirley Chisholm State Park
The park's design emphasizes its connection to nature and its history. Visitors can explore 10 miles of biking and hiking trails that wind through the revitalized landscape, offering stunning views of Jamaica Bay and the distant New York City skyline. The presence of diverse plant life, thriving in this reclaimed environment, highlights the resilience of nature.
This ambitious project not only provides much-needed green space for Brooklyn residents but also serves as an educational example of how former industrial sites can be reimagined for public benefit. The park's existence is a powerful symbol of environmental restoration and community investment.
Honoring Shirley Chisholm's Legacy
The park embodies Chisholm's commitment to public service, education, and social justice. By transforming a former landfill into a public amenity, the park provides accessible recreational opportunities for all New Yorkers, reflecting her dedication to serving her community. The park's existence is a powerful reminder of her fight for equality and her impact on American politics and society.
Visitors can learn more about Shirley Chisholm's life and legacy through interpretive signage and the park's very existence. It's a place where her message of perseverance and advocacy continues to inspire, encouraging visitors to engage with their community and strive for positive change.
Exploring the Park's Trails and Activities
A major draw is the Free Bike Library, operating seasonally from Thursday to Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM. This program allows visitors to borrow bikes at no cost, making it easy to explore the park's vastness. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this amenity enhances the park experience significantly.
Beyond biking and hiking, the park offers opportunities for fishing from its piers, picnicking in designated areas with tables and canopies, and birdwatching. The diverse ecosystem, developed on the former landfill, attracts a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit