The park was built on the former site of the Elmhurst Gas Tanks, which had dominated the neighborhood skyline since the early 20th century.
Construction of the park was a major environmental remediation project, capping the land formerly used for industrial gas storage.
The park opened in 2011 as part of a larger plan to increase green space in Queens.
The project won the 2011 Award for Excellence in Design from the Public Design Commission of the City of New York.
Elmhurst Park is a 6.18-acre urban green space constructed on the site of a former gas plant, transformed through a major land reclamation project. The park features expansive grassy lawns, a modern interactive playground, and designated seating areas. It serves as a central recreational hub for the Elmhurst community, featuring paved pedestrian walkways and native landscaping. The park is built on a site formerly occupied by the Elmhurst Gas Tanks, which were iconic local landmarks until their demolition in 2005. Its design incorporates sustainability elements and is part of the NYC Parks department system. The facility provides open vistas and public amenities for neighborhood residents and visitors.
The raised grassy mounds provide a panoramic view of the park layout and the surrounding neighborhood streetscape.
Visit during the early morning if you prefer a quieter environment, as the park is a popular local spot for afternoon activity.
Utilize the paved paths for a quick walk, as the central location makes it easy to integrate into a longer neighborhood exploration.
Avoid visiting during extreme high-noon heat in the summer, as the park has many open, sun-exposed areas.
Standard NYC public park rules apply: no littering, keep dogs on a leash, and respect designated play areas.
