Socrates Sculpture Park
New York City, NY
Established back in the mid-1980s in Long Island City, Socrates Sculpture Park boasts an open-air collection of sculptures overlooking the East River. This outdoor museum is popular with photography lovers—the Manhattan skyline makes for a stunning backdrop—while its green spaces and walking paths offer a relaxing escape from the bustle of the Big Apple.
The basics
Entrance to Socrates Sculpture Park is free and its compact size makes it easy to explore the contemporary art on display in just an hour or so—although many people prefer to spend longer here. Expect to find work from both established and emerging sculptors. The park also hosts community events throughout the year, including outdoor film screenings and art workshops. Many people combine visits with other nearby arts-related attractions, such as MoMA PS1 or the Noguchi Museum.
Things to know before you go
- The park is accessible to visitors using wheelchairs or with limited mobility, as its trails are paved and flat.
- If you’re interested in taking photographs, consider coming an hour before sunset when the riverfront is bathed in golden light.
- This is an excellent attraction for families with children; not only will it cost you nothing to enter, but there’s plenty of space for kids to run around and burn off energy.
How to get there
Socrates Sculpture Park can be easily reached by public transportation. By train, take the N or W to either Queensboro Plaza from Manhattan, or the 7 train to Vernon Blvd–Jackson Ave. From there, walk for around 10–15 minutes to the park. Cycling is another great option, as bike lanes run along Vernon Boulevard and bike racks are available.
When to get there
Socrates Sculpture Park is open daily from morning until sunset. Mornings tend to be quieter if you’re seeking a more contemplative experience, while afternoons are typically busier. The sun sets behind the park, not over the East River, but that’s still a scenic time of day to visit. Generally, spring and fall are ideal weather windows for visiting New York City.
Inside the life and work of Isamu Noguchi
Located just a 10-minute walk from Socrates Sculpture Park, the Noguchi Museum—housed in a repurposed industrial building—is dedicated to the work of the Japanese-American designer Isamu Noguchi. Visitors can see abstract sculptures, drawings, models for landscape designs, and much more. Manhattan is home to two Noguchi sculptures: Red Cube in the Financial District and Sunken Garden at the headquarters of the United Nations.
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