Attractions and Places To See around Bay Park - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see around Bay Park include a variety of natural features, recreational areas, and local points of interest. The area offers diverse landscapes, from expansive aquatic parks to natural open spaces with hiking trails. Bay Park's central location provides access to both coastal views and community-oriented spots. Visitors can explore a range of outdoor activities and local establishments.
Best attractions and places to see around Bay Park
- The most popular attractions is Beach at Far Rockaway…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Beach at Far Rockaway
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
Hempstead Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Hempstead Lake State Park
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Belmont Park Racetrack
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Bay Park.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
almost exactly a 5K distance around the lake. beautiful, peaceful, and most importantly shaded
0
0
Hempstead Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by scenic parkland. Covering over 100 acres, it’s a great spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. A nice trail encircles the lake, making it perfect for a run.
0
0
Hempstead Lake State Park is a multi-use facility that has children's playgrounds, basketball courts, and paths for horseback riding, biking and hiking. There are also picnic areas and an observation deck overlooking Hempstead Lake.
0
0
Hempstead Lake is a tranquil freshwater lake surrounded by scenic parkland. Spanning over 100 acres, the lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by a nice walking trail, that serves as the perfect location for a stroll.
1
0
The Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve was created by converting the former Merrick Landfill into a nature preserve. There are 3 miles of hiking and jogging paths with exercise equipment at different points. In the preserve there is the chance to see some of the wildlife that is found on the south shore, including foxes, turtles and various birds and fish. There is also a great view of the Atlantic Ocean and the town of Merrick from the top of Merrick Mountain.
1
0
Belmont Park is typically open for racing from late April through mid-July (known as the Spring meet), and again from mid-September through late October (the Fall meet).It is widely known as the home of the Belmont Stakes in early June, regarded as the "Test of the Champion". In December 2022 the New York Racing Association formally announced its intention to upgrade the facilities at Belmont to make it suitable to host year-round thoroughbred racing and training, which would ultimately lead to the closure of nearby Aqueduct Racetrack.
0
0
The southeastern-most point in NYC — the beach here faces the Atlantic Ocean where it meets Reynolds Channel, and is accessible via riding on the paved boardwalk all the way from Belle Harbor.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Bay Park?
Bay Park offers several natural attractions. You can visit Hempstead Lake, a tranquil freshwater lake perfect for fishing, boating, and picnicking, with a walking trail around it. Another option is the Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve, which features 3 miles of hiking and jogging paths and opportunities to see local wildlife.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Bay Park area?
Yes, several attractions are great for families. Hempstead Lake State Park is a multi-use facility with children's playgrounds, basketball courts, and paths for various activities. The Beach at Far Rockaway is also considered family-friendly, offering a beach experience with a paved boardwalk.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Bay Park?
For scenic views, Hempstead Lake and Hempstead Lake State Park both offer picturesque lake views. Additionally, the Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve provides a great view of the Atlantic Ocean and the town of Merrick from the top of Merrick Mountain.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Bay Park?
The area around Bay Park is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and walking around Hempstead Lake or explore the trails at Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve. For more structured routes, check out the various hiking routes around Bay Park or road cycling routes available.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The trail encircling Hempstead Lake is a nice, peaceful walk, almost exactly a 5K distance. You can also find easy trails within Hempstead Lake State Park. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Bay Park guide.
What is there to do at Hempstead Lake State Park?
Hempstead Lake State Park is a versatile facility offering children's playgrounds, basketball courts, and paths for horseback riding, biking, and hiking. It also features picnic areas and an observation deck overlooking Hempstead Lake.
Can I go to the beach near Bay Park?
Yes, the Beach at Far Rockaway is a notable beach in the area. It faces the Atlantic Ocean where it meets Reynolds Channel and is accessible via a paved boardwalk, making it a great spot for a seaside visit.
What is the Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve?
The Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve is a unique nature preserve created from a former landfill. It offers 3 miles of hiking and jogging paths with exercise equipment, opportunities to see local wildlife like foxes and various birds, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Is there a place for horse racing enthusiasts near Bay Park?
Yes, Belmont Park Racetrack is located near Bay Park. It is widely known as the home of the Belmont Stakes and typically hosts racing from late April through mid-July and again from mid-September through late October.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Bay Park?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of places like Hempstead Lake, often describing it as peaceful and shaded. The diverse activities available at Hempstead Lake State Park and the scenic views from Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve are also highly valued.
Are there opportunities for cycling around Bay Park?
Absolutely! The area offers various cycling routes. You can find paths for biking within Hempstead Lake State Park. For longer rides, explore the road cycling routes around Bay Park, which include options like the Baldwin to Atlantic Beach loop or the Hempstead Lake and Jones Beach Loop.
Most popular routes around Bay Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
