Gateway National Recreation Area offers a unique blend of natural and historical attractions, affording visitors the chance to explore beaches, wildlife in marshlands, and historic forts in the bustling New York City metropolitan area.
Spread across 27,000 acres in New York and New Jersey, Gateway National Recreation Area serves as an oasis in one of the most densely populated areas in the United States. The area features numerous parks, wildlife habitats, and historic sites, from Sandy Hook's beaches and maritime forest in New Jersey to the historic forts and airports, such as Fort Tilden and Floyd Bennett Field, in New York. This varied location provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating, birdwatching, and fishing, alongside unique peeks into military and aviation history. Visitors can enjoy the rare combination of a scenic natural environment complemented by stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The area's mix of sandy beaches, wetlands, and cultural sites makes it an accessible and appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Historic Fort Hancock on Sandy Hook
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds
Floyd Bennett Field, New York City's first municipal airport
Ryan Visitor Center with exhibits on the area's significance
One of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the Northeast.
The oldest working lighthouse in America, first lit in 1764.
A historic airfield now offering camping and recreational facilities.