Long Island City near New York City is home to a popular, highly-visited sculpture park by the name of Socrates Sculpture Park. This park is open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to sunset. This park provides a unique outdoor environment, as it helps artists interact with the public by displaying their artwork.
This New York City park actually began an abandoned landfill and illegal dumpsite until 1986 when community members transformed it into an open studio and exhibition space for artists and a neighborhood park for those living nearby. Today if you visit, you will find this renovated outdoor museum a great chance to see local artwork for free!
Socrates Sculpture Park in NYC:
You’ll find this park in your NYC car rental at the intersection of Broadway and Vernon Boulevard. Two entrances on the north and south sides are where you will want to come in from. The park is about 4.5 acres and has a paved path around its perimeter. You can park your NYC cheap car rental on any nearby streets by the park.
You won’t find any concession stands directly in the park; however, you will find a great assortment of nearby restaurants within walking distance. Some of these include Bel Aire Diner, Bella Via Restaurant, The Creek, La Vuelta, Manducatis, and Sage American Kitchen.
There are not too many shaded or sheltered areas within the park, so bring an umbrella for rainy days and some sunscreen for those very hot days. You may bring your dog, but he must be leashed at all times.
You will find many fun events here at Socrates Sculpture Park in New York City. Last year it was home to a kite flights, fitness programs, children’s workshops, bike parades, a summer solstice celebration, a farmer’s market, performances, concerts, and even outdoor movies!
Throughout each year, you will find Socrates Sculpture Park has a special exhibit it features for several months. These exhibits include a long list of artists that are proud to share their sculptures with you. As you tour the park, be sure to take note of the exhibits currently featured and those who created them.
For a fun afternoon, we suggest packing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the lawn. You can even read a book as you soak up the sun. And don’t forget to wander through the park to admire the art. Let us know if you would be interested in other art and museums around New York City.
