Forest Park is a 543-acre urban oasis in central southwestern Queens — the third-largest park in the borough and one of the most varied in New York City. Protected as a "Forever Wild" area, the park is home to 150-year-old oak and tulip trees spread across 165 acres of continuous forest, making it a rare natural retreat within the city.
Families and groups will find something for everyone: three color-coded hiking trails (the Orange Loop covers 2.4 miles and is rated easy), seven playgrounds, a historic 1910 carousel hand-carved by the Muller brothers, a skate park with quarter pipes and a halfpipe (helmets and pads required), 14 tennis courts, Victory Field with handball, softball, soccer, and a running track, and a 110-acre 18-hole golf course. Strack Pond is a favorite for birding, and the Seuffert Bandshell hosts free seasonal concerts.
A picnic and BBQ area with grills and wooden tables sits near the Visitor Center, restrooms, and playground — surrounded by towering oak trees. Urban Park Rangers are on site at the Forest Park Visitor Center. Admission is free, though the carousel and golf course have separate fees. Groups of 20 or more must obtain a Special Events permit through NYC Parks (30-day lead time required; free for groups under 18). Parking for 298 cars is available at the Bandshell lot. The nearest subway is the J/Z at Jamaica Ave (Woodhaven Blvd) or E/F at Forest Hills–71 Av.