A spectacular urban oasis where soaring fountains, sport, and city life converge in the heart of Queens.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park is one of New York City’s largest and most iconic public parks, home to the legendary fountains that frame the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where the US Open is held each summer. The park’s expansive blue reflecting pools and dramatic vertical jets of water create a refreshing visual spectacle, especially during the warm months when visitors of all ages come to cool off, skate, and play.
With its mix of athletic energy, cultural landmarks, and family-friendly recreation, the park offers a quintessential Queens experience. Whether you’re catching a tennis match, rollerblading past the fountains, or simply soaking in the sunshine, the area pulses with the diverse rhythm of New York’s most multicultural borough.
Highlights
- Iconic tall water fountains and reflecting pools that dazzle on sunny days
- Home of the US Open tennis tournament at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
- The historic Unisphere — a relic of the 1964 World’s Fair
- Wide open spaces perfect for rollerblading, cycling, and picnicking
What to Do
- Rollerblade or skate along the smooth pathways surrounding the fountains
- Catch a match during the US Open tennis championships in late summer
- Visit the Queens Museum and see the famous Panorama of New York City
- Explore the New York Hall of Science with its interactive exhibits
- Rent a paddleboat on Meadow Lake during warmer months
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall, when the fountains are running and the park is at its liveliest — late August to early September coincides with the US Open.
Getting There
Take the 7 subway line to Mets-Willets Point station, just steps from the park. The LIRR also stops at Mets-Willets Point during major events. Driving from Manhattan takes about 30 minutes via the Grand Central Parkway.
Visitor Tips
- Bring sunscreen and water — there’s limited shade near the open fountain plazas
- Wear comfortable shoes or bring skates; the park is huge and best explored on wheels
- Book US Open tickets well in advance if visiting during the tournament
- Weekdays are far less crowded than weekends and event days
Nearby
- Citi Field — home of the New York Mets
- Corona’s vibrant Latin American food scene along Roosevelt Avenue
- Flushing’s Chinatown for authentic Asian cuisine
- LaGuardia Airport, just minutes away
Whether you come for world-class tennis, family fun, or simply to glide past the dancing fountains on a sunny afternoon, Flushing Meadows Corona Park captures the energy and diversity that make Queens unforgettable. Pack your skates and discover one of New York City’s most refreshing escapes.