Freshkills North Park

As the first public section of the massive 2,200-acre Freshkills Park project—slated to be three times the size of Central Park—this 21-acre space runs along the North Mound of what was once the world's largest landfill. Closed in 2001 and capped with engineered layers of soil, the site has transitioned from an environmental liability into a quiet haven for wildlife, science, and recreation. Visitors can access the park from two points: one behind Schmul Park, and another at the end of Wild Avenue, which features a parking lot and bike repair stations. The well-paved loop, largely wheelchair-friendly, offers separate jogging and hiking paths, a picnic area, and a comfort station. While the marshland viewing platforms are easy to reach, climbing the steps of the constructed bird observation tower offers the best vantage point for taking in the sweeping views of the evolving green space.