Socrates Sculpture Park

On the Grid : Socrates Sculpture Park

"In 1986, artist Mark di Suvero helped transform an abandoned landfill located right on the East River into a public park. This act of urban renewal has been a gift to LIC residents and visitors alike who are able to enjoy season-long outdoor sculptures, movie screenings, farmers markets on the weekend, and even free yoga. This tranquil place has been the site of numerous site-specific installations from artists around the world, helping to make this 4-acre site NYC's largest outdoor space dedicated to exhibiting sculpture." - MSLK

Socrates Sculpture Park - Review - New York - The Infatuation

"Every Saturday in Long Island City, Socrates Sculpture Park hosts a mini farmer’s market featuring produce from the neighborhood’s own Hellgate Farm. While you’re in the park, make sure to check out this weekend’s sculptural installation performance exploring environmental ethics by Leimay Ensemble. You can see the installation anytime you’re there, but we’d recommend timing it so you can watch the performers activate the space. Find more details on the schedule here. We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Team Infatuation

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@afar

"Years—no, decades—before Long Island City became a happening neighborhood, Socrates Sculpture Park was there, staking a claim on a patch of land that had been abandoned and turned into an illegal landfill. Since then, the park has become a cultural hub of the neighborhood, hosting year-round outdoor exhibits of contemporary sculpture. During warmer months, it also has a full calendar of events, most of which are free, including yoga and capoeira classes, international movie screenings, and art-making workshops. The park is also a launch point for kayaking (also free!) during the summer. Note that the Noguchi Museum is right across the street; along with Socrates, it makes for a inspiring art-centered outing in this increasingly popular Queens neighborhood."

"Socrates Sculpture Park, Long Island City by MSLK. In 1986, artist Mark di Suvero helped transform an abandoned landfill located right on the East River into a public park. This act of urban renewal has been a gift to LIC residents and visitors alike who are able to enjoy season-long outdoor sculptures, movie screenings, farmers markets on the weekend, and even free yoga. This tranquil place has been the site of numerous site-specific installations from artists around the world, helping to make this 4-acre site NYC's largest outdoor space dedicated to exhibiting sculpture."

Queens

Mike Z

Google

Nice city park with beautiful views of Manhattan and Roosevelt Island, there are changing art installations. I liked the landscaping of the park. Worth checking out if you are in the area to visit The Noguchi Museum.

LIEM

Google

RELAXING WATERFRONT SCULPTURE PARK 🌿 the grounds here are peaceful and large for a stroll 🚶🏻‍♂️ There’s are patches of wildflowers and there are benches along the waterfront to relax and take in the skyline views of Manhattan. The center lawn holds sculptures that are part of a rotation of seasonal art exhibits. Great place that is free! We grabbed some coffee and sat on a bench to take in the views! Highly Recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Aliyah Danielle

Google

Beautiful view of the river with nice art to look at throughout the park. I like coming here to sit and read and listen to the water. Every time I’ve been, it has never been too crowded and the energy is calm. If you want a coffee pick me up or have a pet, there is a really cute dog themed coffee shop across the street with some good drink and food selections.

D Guo

Google

This park is very peaceful and offers direct views of Manhattan, making it perfect for relaxation. The arrangement of the plants in the park is very well done, and there are often new sculpture exhibitions, which are quite impressive.

Andrew Lam

Google

A decently large park with occasional statues. There are a few flowers in the middle and edges of the park While the waterside view may be nice, be sure to bring bug repellent - walking past the ferns you could feel stings

Tamar Snir

Google

I had a layover at La Guardia Airport and decided to make a quick stop. I'm glad I did. Not only the sculptures and the view of the city were stunning, I also met new lifelong friends.

Norma Gelmis

Google

I went for first time on Sunday February ninth. I currently live in a different borough & discovered several Parks through out Queens. Hadn't known existed via google research. Most of parks I went to including this place aren't huge. My purpose of going is to enjoy exploring places . Nature/art/ & so forth. I also ventured Gantry State/ Queensbridge/ Flushing Meadows Corona/ Astoria Park & Hunters Point South which I found out sorta connects to Gantry State Park.Is amazing how I am learning a lot on so much research . Google is such an amazing search engine!

Noah Langford

Google

Amazing sculpture park overlooking the East River. Incredible art work

Mike R.

Yelp

Discovered Socrates Sculpture Park on a visit to the Noguchi Museum down the block. Awesome to explore this 5 acre riverside park that exhibits a range of eclectic larger size sculptures. Socrates also has some open space to also enjoy the view of Roosevelt Island and Manhattan on the other side of the East River. My favorite sculptures there are John Ahearn's painted bronze "Raymond and Toby," "Daleesha," and "Corey." Nearby, you'll also find a Free Store that perhaps has something to take home. (Full disclosure: I did not check out its actual contents.) "The Cubes," a new permanent building in the park, provides administrative offices as well as multi-use additional space. Socrates Sculpture Park was a nice surprise!

Danielle P.

Yelp

Super beautiful park located at the edge of Astoria (conveniently adjacent to Costco). Taking a stroll through Socrates Sculpture Park is usually my little reward after braving the Costco chaos. It's a small but well maintained park featuring sculpture art that changes decently frequently, which makes coming here feel new every time you set foot in this place. If you're looking for a park to spread out in and picnic at, it's a little more difficult to do here than at Astoria Park, but it can be done. More often you see people strolling than sitting, plus it's a great place to let the kids run around and get their energy out. In the spring and summertime here local vendors come to sell food, I've found decent deals on fresh fruits and veggies here. I always see folks fishing here which seems peculiar to me but hey, to each their own. Overall it's worth a visit if you like art and nature and need somewhere scenic to stroll.

Neil H.

Yelp

It was the first time back in years, and I attended a lovely outdoor event on their lawn. The event circus amuck was not about a circus but rather a commentary on life at the present time. I will be backQ

Tyler L.

Yelp

Socrates is a fairly small park that is mostly just filled with grass fields and sculptures. It's easy to find as it is located across from the Costco in Astoria. The main plus is that there is a lot of empty space to relax and it is located on the waterfront. The sculpture themselves can be hit and miss. They actually switch out the sculptures periodically. When I last came, there were a fair amount of large and interesting works of art on display. Other reviews say they saw almost nothing.

Tata G.

Yelp

Decided to take the ferry to Astoria with no definite itenirary so was pleasantly surprise to bump into this sculpture park. I think the place was into transition we came so not much sculptures to see yet but still enjoy the place anyway. Entrance is free & exhibit is outdoors. Lots of trees & some flowers with beautiful view of the East river & manhattan. A good place for a quiet stroll, chat with friends, have a cup of coffee while enjoying the view.

Jiali L.

Yelp

Socrates is a small sculpture park. If you catch it at the right moment it can be quite whimsical. On the other hand it does undergo construction a fair bit when new pieces are being installed and it's in transition mode. The pieces aren't always labeled in the immediate vicinity so you'd have to look online for additional information (I'd recommend doing so since it can be hit or miss depending on whether the work has been fully installed or whether it's of interest). In the Spring there are a few younger trees that have cherry blossoms which is nice as well. I'd say that the space feels like it's still growing and developing since it's very free form and casual. This is a very different space (size wise and approach wise) when compared to Storm King for example. The great news is that it's free and open to the public! It's a great place to pass through. Whether that's a short walk, relaxing by the water (lots of people bring dogs and kids here), a run, etc. Poking around the exhibits while you're there is a bonus. In addition, it also serves as a compost dropoff site which is great for those in the local community. I come through in passing and have seen several iterations. It's interesting to see the usage of the space. Sometimes I admit it feels a bit random (not as structured) but I do like that there's a space to show off different types of art work for public appreciation.

Melissa G.

Yelp

There is a lot of construction going on in and around the park. Definitely some nice views of the river and Roosevelt Island, but this is a "stop by if you are in the area" versus a destination park for me until they wrap up with construction.

Andrew D.

Yelp

This park is a unique find on Astoria's east river waterfront. it's a relaxing place to watch the sunset and boats on the river. i just wish there were more actual benches in the parks.

Jason P.

Yelp

Small free park with some open space and a few sculptures. Arrived here at about 2pm on a nice Sunday and was able to get street parking about 2 blocks away. A bunch of people laid out on the open space on beach/park towels or lawn chairs. Not too much else to do or see...unless they hold events there.

Dipali G.

Yelp

Great park with amazing views. It is a great park that features amazing g sculptures. They also host amazing community events here that I very much appreciate! They also have communal grills where you can have an awesome picnic. It's a gem in Astoria

Jenny G.

Yelp

First time in Queens New York I researched online the top things to visit. Take a look at the pictures, extremely disappointed because no where did I read that the sculptures and artwork rotate every few months. I walked all the way over there to find Nothing!!!

BklynMama K.

Yelp

What happened, Socrates? You're building a giant new admin building but the grounds are a mess--muddy and unkempt. It's supposed to be your big exhibit right now but you only have about five pieces up, one of which is a giant grill, so now in addition to the park being a glorified dog run (no one keeps them on leashes, btw), it's just another park for a bbq. And also--where did the chimes go?!

Devashis R.

Yelp

Worth knowing this before you come. The quality of your experience here will vastly depend on what is being exhibited. Sometimes, what's on display is breathtaking, and other times, nothing much really going on. They do have a number of events that take place so worth checking the schedule. They have a grilling area if you're looking to have a gathering. Bathrooms are port-a-potties, so keep that in mind. If you have a Costco membership, you could easily grab food and use their restrooms next door or better yet, there is a cute cafe across the street worth visiting. I would say it's not a place to go out of your way to see, but if you're in the area or live in NYC, it may be worth checking out from time to time, especially for some of the events.

lena p.

Yelp

The Socrates "lack of sculptures" park had no sculptures. I repeat, NO SCULPTURES! So if you're in a sculptures kind of mood, don't come here.

Susan L.

Yelp

The park remains open, but no group sports or activities are permitted at this time. Also; the compost drop-off has been suspended, and the bins have been removed for the duration of the coronavirus situation.

Hunter S.

Yelp

This is a neat little park to see if you're already in the area. When I chose to go, it was between exhibitions, and you could tell one sculpture had been damaged and was being repaired (the pyramid pictured). The ground is poorly kept, and it's pretty gritty and muddy, but that might be because of the stress caused my rotating exhibits. As previously mentioned, the exhibits rotate, and you should check and see if anything is even there before you go. There are two or three small permanent sculptures (pictured). Again, I would support local artists, but wouldn't trek from Manhattan or Harlem or something. Maybe make it part of a day where you go out to one of the many ethnic eateries in queens, see the park, maybe visit the Pepsi sign along the water.

Jennifer R.

Yelp

Don't waste your time. Needs a completed overhaul. Looks like a junkyard with terrible art. Some sculptures are great though. Lots of wasted time and money trying to fix up this place. Gives off a dirty feeling.

Ransser L.

Yelp

Always a chill and mellow environment. Good Vibes, nice to walk and talk through the park

Kelly B.

Yelp

As an fellow Astorian, I love this park. I think that's it's worth visiting to get a beautiful view of the city and an added extra is the sculpture art to check out. Although I personally don't always like every art piece or understand some. It's nice to have a park that allows artists to explore. The sculptures are seasonal! On the weekends there are a lot of friends, family that hang out in the lawn with picnic blankets and chairs. It's dog friendly so that is really nice as well. I do wish dogs didn't poop in the middle of the park because there are a lot of little kids walking around and playing through out the week. An added bonus is you can get a cheap lunch at Costco next door and eat it at the park. That's why I do!

Michi S.

Yelp

Nice little park in LIC/Astoria. Yes, it's pretty small. If you go with an adult and walk at a decent pace on the path without stopping to look closely at all the sculptures, you can probably walk around the entire park within 10 minutes. However, I absolutely do not recommend doing that! There are benches, plenty of picnic space, a stage area, and rotating artwork. I happened to see a huge piece of artwork that you can sit and swing (slightly) on. They had a list of events on their calendar (including jazz performances) and it seemed like a chill space to spend for a couple of hours. I don't envision too many people being there, but who knows, it may get crowded (like any other place in NYC). When I went their on a cloudy chilly day in June, it was quiet and calm. My friend and I biked to get to the park from Williamsburg. It was an enjoyable 20-30 minute bike ride. If you're not a fan of biking in Manhattan, this experience will be different-- biker friendly bike paths and plenty of citibike stops nearby. But make sure to wear a helmet, follow biker rules (the police are seriously cracking down on bikers) and bike safely!

Charlie C.

Yelp

Nice waterfront park with sculptures and views. It's small but worth a stroll. Free entry and next to Costco Astoria.

Jada C.

Yelp

Full of interactive sculptures, the Socrates Sculpture Park transports you into another dimension. Families come here to enjoy the outdoors. People bring their dogs here to exercise. During the weekend, vendors come in to sell their products. On the left side of the park, you see some large life like sculptures. Well done and it sparks immediate conversations about the origins and the meaning of them. In the middle of the park, chimes hang in the trees. People take turns hitting hanging chimes. You only need to find a long wooden stick to make music with the chimes. Some of the chimes come in shorter length. They sound sweeter. The longer ones made bass notes. After playing with the chimes, take a walk near the water. Spin the metal spinning wheel. As you walk down the path, notice the multicolored rocks encased in a fence. While walking around the park, you feel the stress melt away from you. Another perk: you can go to Costco to shop! Socrates Park gives you an opportunity to be a child again.

Alicia B.

Yelp

I found this park to be absolutely fascinating. Who thought of this ?!!?!?! A PARK! FILLED WITH SCULPTURES! .. G E N I U S !! Anyways, my friend and I needed something to do on a beautiful Sunday in Elmhurst. I realized this place wasn't too far away and decided to pay a visit. I found parking right away and was able to enjoy the park itself since the crowd was very small. The "gallery" is free and open 365 days a year until 5pm. There's various sculptures but the descriptions are very minimal. I wish there was something to either give credit to the artist or tell more of the work. One plaque did read "GOAT AGAIN" .. I guess that explains the amount of goats ?!?!!? I enjoyed the scene views of the skycrappers and another island (I forgot the name). On a hot day, being by the water was absolutely perfect. My favorite sculpture was wooden with adjectives written all over it. I didn't see an explanation of the piece however, I loved it! It seems as though it might have been made by kids since some of the boards had things written on them like "I like ice cream and my family", There's also a "beach" nearby .. it's about 20 feet long .. I wouldn't go there but still.. being by the water is nice! Def worth the visit, I spent about an hour here. There was also someone selling shaved ice ($3 each).

Emily C.

Yelp

This seemed like more of a destination to lounge with kids, dogs, and friends rather than a spot to marvel at the art. A few of the sculptures seemed eyecatching, but the vast open grassy fields on a sunny day were the real draw! Plus, the park is located right on the water, which makes it all the more relaxing. I wouldn't say it's the most picturesque park around, but it's still nice. Looks like they have a great event lineup throughout the season.

Rich W.

Yelp

KITE FLIGHT at Socrates sculpture Park on Saturday April 30 For a second year Socrates Sculpture Park and The Noguchi Museum hosted the Kite Flight event on the grounds of the Park. It is a special workshop for children (and some of us adults too) to build and decorate a kite out of recycled materials (newspaper & chop sticks?! probably not) then fly it in the Park. The workshop was free and all the supplies were provided. It was a ton of fun! They even gave out free family passes to visit the Noguchi Museum!

Jordan T.

Yelp

While the website may say that this is in LIC. It is most definitely in Astoria. After the long subway and bus ride up here, I was disappointed because I had envisioned seeing what the photos on the website had captured. The "sculptures" were limited to 3 main ones but the rest had no art value at all. Furthermore the park was really run down. The worst park grass I have ever seen in my life! You would need to stack 3 blankets on top of each other just to lie on the grass. The other great attraction, the Manhattan skyline, was blocked for the most part by dense trees and foliage. I don't understand why they had trees blocking the view but nowhere else in the park so people can rest in the shade. Obviously, I am aware that this is a free space (not worthy of being called an exhibit). I am just trying to warn those who are coming from afar thinking this is some great undiscovered art installation.

Tina C.

Yelp

Hard to believe this space was once formerly an abandoned riverside landfill, now utilized as a beautiful outdoor park and art gallery in Long Island City formulated in 1986 as a coalition of artists and community members. Socrates Sculpture Park host screening of foreign films with subtitles in summer (with weather permitting) as it also present beautiful views of northern Roosevelt Island notably with Blackwell Island Light and NY's East River. "Broadway Billboard: Catherine Opie, Untitled (Stump Fire #4)" is the first exhibit prominently displayed above the entry way. There is even one sculpture piece floating in the East River. Adjacent to this beach is Socrates Sculpture Park's warehouse where local artists formulate art pieces into reality spawned from brilliant minds. FREE admission! Nearby Socrates Sculpture Park Beach At Hallets Cove is a NYC Kayak and Canoe Launching Area site where a two mile trail circulate around Roosevelt Island. It is also a mini beach site, unfortunately heavily filled with the foulest debris. Upon entering the gargantuan steps at the threshold, I dare not to go barefoot since the sand was filled with all of mankind's debris. The air is visible for the strong salt water stench.

Jen V.

Yelp

I recalled my first time visiting this park was in 2015. I came here with a friend and we mainly stopped by here to see the living pyramid sculpture. It was a nice little park overlooking the east end river and you could see a nice view of manhattan from there. I think we went there on the weekend and there was a small farmers market close to the entrance. There were several artistic sculptures around the area but the living pyramid was definitely a must-see...so cool! I was wondering how the grass stayed alive in the pyramid. But later on I saw a mini fountain then I figured it out. We actually got sprayed by the water by accident while taking pictures. Also the patrons were not allowed to touch nor stand too close. To me, this park is more of a local park where people can hang out, jogging, relax and walk their dogs. If they do not have any sculptures and exhibits, it might not be worth of a trip to go. There are also some signs alerting people to keep their dogs on leash at all times. But what about dogs doing their business in the park and the owner doesn't clean it? lol Anyway, another thing is it can get very windy if you're going there during rainy/gloomy weather.

Kevin Z.

Yelp

After taking a bus and train for 30 minutes to get here, I can finally breath and see the green at a middle of nowhere park. This place is right next to Costco which means you can buy some hot dog or food at their food court and head over to see some amazing sculptures. I was amazed by how open this place is with plenty of volunteer on site. From what I was told, they update their art work here every 2 to 3 months from local artists. Plenty of green grass and space for a picnic. There is a bathroom available however I was here at a movie event so I don't know if it's public.

Michelle C.

Yelp

Very small and out of the way. Took a long time to get here from Manhattan and I was disappointed. I guess the sculptures get switched out every now and then but what is on display now is not good. The park is small and the pieces are small. Do not bother going out of your way to go here.

Anthony G.

Yelp

Not the prettiest or biggest park in Queens but at least there was a breeze coming from the water. That's the best I can say about this water front park in Astoria dotted with abstract sculptures. The grounds aren't in the best shape, it's littered and it's really small. If you're expecting some pretty green space well, this may be a disappointment. Not going to come back to this park and if you're in the area, skip it and go to Astoria or Rainey Park instead.

Maria E.

Yelp

You have to lower your expectations when you come here. Don't take the trip from Manhattan hoping to be wowed and then start comparing this place to large parks and "better" art. For what it is, it's wonderful. This was once a landfill for crying out loud. And now, it's a park (albeit, small) with a beautiful skyline view and art (regardless of whether you like it or not). It's an opportunity for artists to show their work and a place for people to come and relax. It has a real community vibe. While I have not attended any, there is apparently a whole bunch of events, such as outdoor movies, yoga, farmers market, kite flying, etc. And, ahem, it's FREE!!!!!! How can you give 1 star to a FREE park area that was once a landfill and now offers showcase opportunities for artists as well as positive community events? That's like a new level of snobbery. If you came here from over yonder with unrealistic expectations, well that's your problem. It is a bit of a walk from the N train at Broadway. 10 min? And not the most scenic walk. I'd also like to see more flowers and greenery and it could be "prettier" overall. I am still a fan though. If we could take more crappy areas and turn them into parks, wouldn't that make the world a lovelier place? I really commend the people behind this project!! Don't expect too much and you will get a lot.

Robert S.

Yelp

Weird setup, for some reason they let a Costco split Rainey and Socrates Sculpture Park. Would have worked much better if they were one park. As it is now, both are too small.

Sam K.

Yelp

On a day of exploring Long Island City, I walked through Socrates Sculpture park which is right along the waterfront (pretty views!) I heard this was a pretty awesome park, and even photos I had looked up were reason enough to make the trek. (It was about 15 min walk from the NW trains, and not sure the other options but it seems to be in a pretty deserted part of town) What I didn't realize about the park is that they must rotate exhibits. When I was there the sculptures were all goat themed, which is cool and all but just not what I was expecting. There was a big sign at the front announcing summer events in the park (concerts, performances etc)- so it seemed like a pretty happening park to check out during summer nights and weekends.

Lourdes M.

Yelp

I missed this park. The first and last time visit I had was when my daughter was about 5 years old. Lots of new arts are displayed (course because it has been ages). I was glad to see some of their old artworks in their private dump site. I came here to watch today's schedule of The Metropolitan Opera summer recital series. They provide a stage for any performances. I heard that the park sponsors different performances especially during summer season. A friend who lives within the vicinity said they had foreign films played last month on selected days and restaurants of that heritage serviced the crowd's food and drinks needs. The park is eco friendly. They displayed arts made from scraps and turns to a beautiful sight. The park has seasonal focal art by budding artists located near the water. Lots of herbs, trees and flowering gardens are surrounding the entire park. It is maintained. Bathroom and two porta- potty are available for the visitors convenience. I saw a group of tourist led by a tour guide walking around and seems enjoying the sight. It is a small park , good for picnicking, relaxing and enjoying the river and the city's skyline view. Location is accessible by public transportation. Parking seems not a problem as I get one easily a crossed the street. Come by and enjoy this place.

Naz A.

Yelp

I found this to be really underwhelming and I'm glad I didn't travel here. I recently moved to Astoria so figured I would check this place out. The lawn is bare and sad looking. It felt kind of crowded. I think I envisioned a mini Storm King, but this was like a junkyard. The only nice part was being by the water but Rainey Park and Astoria Park are nicer.

Lisa C.

Yelp

A trip to Astoria would not be complete without a view of Manhattan from Queens very own Sculpture park. Outdoor installation of NYC most current artists. Oh did I forgot to say it's free, and offers various movies on the lawn through our summer months.

Josenny B.

Yelp

Great place to take a nice walk by the water with some beautiful sculptures to add on to the city views. I definitely thought it would be bigger. There was also an area that seemed to have been closed off but overall it's a nice place to go and relax. There are some shaded areas to sit in and some areas where people lay and take in the vitamin D Worth checking out.

Polly H.

Yelp

This is a great park to wander about due to its awesome art installations. I saw random things like a space shuttle made of glass, a wheelbarrow with things to barter and trade, and a collection of subwoofers of 90s rap music. I have to say the taste is modern art and eclectic. I like it. It is also kid friendly. I visit here quite often especially after visiting the Noguchi museum which is also amazing.

Teresa S.

Yelp

This was my first time in this park and it was pretty cool and amazing. It's small but very artsy and interesting. It reminded me more of a museum than a park. There were several sculptures as soon as you walk in and that caught your eye and you will stop to check out for a few. I enjoyed the walk in sculpture the best which was a conglomerate of just stuff to look at, LOL. The day I was there it wasn't too crowded so I was able to grasp in the scenery in peace. There's something unique to see on each side of the park and afterwards you can just sit in the grass and chill looking at the water view or just people watch. There didn't seem to be a lot of places in the immediate area to eat so bringing some lite snacks if you plan to stay in the park for a while. I would definitely return especially during the spring/summer seasons to participate in some of the outdoor activities.

Jeremiasz T.

Yelp

There was literally nothing here when we came to visit. Just a bare, muddy lawn with a few cute birch trees. Don't come here unless you're already in the area.

Crisleidy R.

Yelp

Not really a fan of this park. It's a small park with 3-4 sculptures. It has a path that will lead you to a river. This has been the worst park I've visit... They only have portable bathroom and not to many trees (little to no shades to enjoy the breeze and eat lunch.) I wouldn't recommend anyone to get out of their way to visit this park.

Soobin K.

Yelp

Some of the sculptures here are photoworthy, others look like industrial junk. There is a shaded area with funky seating, which I liked. Lots of kids. Some dogs. Some amateur photographers. Nice place to chill.

George K.

Yelp

I am totally in love with parks and totally in love with art. So it is sad to give zero stars here. But I do want to warn other people not to drive from some distance to see this place, as did I. I am sorry to say, but this is a dump of no merit. When I visited, there were only two sculptures on display. So fine, they're between shows. But even it it were full of art, it would still be a pig sty. Everything is broken down, dirty, unkempt, not taken care of. The "lawn" is just a small field of weeds. Not even a decent-looking fence around the place. And appropriately, the main use the place seems to receive is that nearby residents come here for their dogs to relieve themselves. Well, I am happy that Astorians have a place where their dogs can relieve themselves. But that makes it a dog run, not a park. One of the many big negatives is that there is a section cordoned off that appears to be a sculpture graveyard. It appears to be, effectively, some sort of dumping ground for sculptures. Some of them look like they would have been fine if cleaned up and fixed up. So why they need to have a moldering graveyard, beats me. Plus, this place is tiny, I would guess about 200 x 200 feet. But, again, if it were a tiny jewel, it would be great. A small junkyard, not so great. If anyone thinks that I don't have a good measure of what a sculpture park should be, go visit Storm King Art Center. You'll be blown away how stunning a good, clean, well-kept sculpture park can be. Yes, you'll have to pay an admission, but you will get great value for your money.

Andrea W.

Yelp

Pretty small park, but really nice to walk around if you're in the area. It's right next to the water, and it's a free park. There are art installations depending on the season, and it's cool to see them. When I came for the first time, goats were a theme. Nice place to chill or walk a bit, though the place isn't too big.

Billy V.

Yelp

Socrates Sculpture Park is not exactly the most beautiful or manicured parks I have ever been to. It has grass, rocks, a view and space. Mix this all together with sculpture art, you have a very charming space. Socrates Sculpture Park is a nice park on the far side of the Astoria/LIC border. The space seems to be an outlet for artist to do their thing. Very large pieces of sculpture art are spread throughout this 2 or 3 acre park. They seem to have a very modest market with 3 or so vendors selling veggies, pickled foods, preserves, etc. Nothing fancy. I heard they show outdoor movies during the summer. Summer 2015 be ready. Anytime you have a space in a large city where families, couples and the community could use for a walk, seating and enjoy a moment of sun; I have to say good job. Socrates Sculpture Park may not be the best, but it is the little engine that could. Certainly a nice space for the community.

Meryl F.

Yelp

Awesome place to relax, exercise, sunbathe, take in views of NYC, and so much more. Most importantly it's a great place to check out art sculpture all for the price of free! There are constant events going on throughout the summer such as free fitness programs, sculpture workshops, outdoor movies, kayaking/canoeing, and a bit of farmer's market. Walking around and gazing the views of NYC waterfront is also very much an option. It's a great place to meditate and relax while not being surrounded by crowds unlike other parks in the city. I've been here a few times for the free yoga fitness classes provided during the summer time and I love just walking around the park afterwards and taking in the views and surroundings of nature! I'll be a frequent all throughout the summer but the park is open year round and it's convenient to public transportation and surrounded with nearby restaurants and shops.

Sharon T.

Yelp

Once upon of time, long before Socrates became a site for art, there was once a group of high school kids who helped clean up the messy and isolated new park. For hours and hours in the breezy cold rainy weather of April, the students have shoveled up pounds of dirt, carried brick to brick, and went home with their clothing covered in mud. At that time, the only exhibition was the playground, like Plain Jane. 3 years later, Socrates has become more like a funzone, everything neighborhood-friendly with free concerts, free shows, activities, fun stuff for kids, etc. But never, NEVER EVER forget that one time where all the high school kids became one and served New York City. All hail NYC students who served their community that day!

Shannon F.

Yelp

Nice park . Beautiful view. Lots of activities for the kids. Port a potties are used for restrooms. Every other Sunday they have kayaking in the east river. Parking can be challenging . This park is full of sculptures. There aren't any swing slides or see saws.

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