Explore your new backyard
For residents of EastCoast, free and immediate access to a 12-acre riverside oasis is a dream-like reality. The parks offer the promise of a healthy lifestyle and the inspiration of natural beauty. Take a morning jog before work, go kayaking on the weekends, or read the paper in one of the park's generously placed benches and hammocks. Whether it's a romantic stroll or a kid's softball game, the parks surrounding EastCoast provide an ideal outdoor backdrop to make every day of your life richer.
GANTRY PLAZA STATE PARK
First opened in 1998, the park has been developed in phases to its current 12-acre expanse. The plantings throughout the park, designed and selected by renowned landscape designer Billie Cohen, are deliberately wild and reflect the diverse plant life native to the area.
GANTRIES
The centerpiece of the 12-acre state park is the restored gantries. These landmarks were once used to transfer cargo from barges, but today serve as sculptural elements framing the water view and as a reminder of the industrial past of Long Island City. The gantries are surrounded by a beautifully landscaped park, fishing piers and other recreational facilities.
ESPLANADE
The Esplanade encircles Gantry State Park to the Anabel Basin with green open space, Adirondack chairs, stone benches and modern hammocks. It is also home to the famous Pepsi-Cola sign, which has illuminated the East River for over 50 years.
PLAYGROUND
The brightly colored playground is a child's dream come true. The truly unique and modern design includes 8,000 sq. ft. of soft rubber matting where children of all ages can safely run, climb and play for hours on end.
FIELDS AND COURTS
You won't need to go far to throw a football or catch your child's game. With basketball courts, a soccer field and plenty of open space all within walking distance, you have no excuse but to get in the game.
FISHING PIER
Feel the breeze off the water. There are three renovated piers that jut into the East River so you can relax by the water's edge. Designed with a sense of modern style, they feature fishing areas with plenty of seating and even a table where you can clean your catch.
CONCERT SERIES
With the city skyline as a backdrop and the gantries as a stage, the park's plaza is a wonderful place to enjoy a spring or summer concert by local musicians.
More here: liveatthegantries.com
KAYAK LAUNCH
Explore the East River. The LIC boathouse and kayak launch is located in Anable Basin adjacent to EastCoast and provides educational and recreational paddling programs.
More here: licboathouse.org