Jacob Riis Park

Jacob Riis Park is a beach park covering more than 260 acres along the Atlantic in Queens, stretching over a mile and a half of coastline. Jetties divide the sand into fourteen sections, and a central promenade runs from the historic bathhouse down to the water.

The site served as a recreation area beginning in 1912 and as a naval air station during the First World War. From here in 1919 the first flight across the Atlantic departed, ending in Portugal.

The bathhouse complex carries the name of a photographer and social reformer who documented living conditions in New York. Visitors today walk through arches and beneath domes that recall Mediterranean architecture, creating a contrast with the rough coastline.

Lifeguards supervise the shore from late May through early September, and showers and restrooms are available during open hours. The beach sections can vary in accessibility depending on weather and current conditions.

From the central promenade on clear days the Empire State Building is visible across the bay. This sightline connects the ocean with the distant Manhattan skyline.

Location: Queens

Inception: 1912

Operator: National Park Service

Part of: Gateway National Recreation Area

Website: https://nps.gov/gate/learn/historyculture/jacob-riis-park.htm

GPS coordinates: 40.56700,-73.87410

Latest update: December 17, 2025 09:19