Tucked away in the heart of Queens’ Kissena Park lies a sports landmark that many New Yorkers have never heard of: the Kissena Velodrome. This 400-meter banked oval track is one of the few velodromes in the United States and the only one in New York City, offering a fascinating window into the city’s cycling history and culture.
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Built in 1963 and originally constructed for the 1964 U.S. Olympic track cycling trials, the Kissena Velodrome has evolved into a hub for competitive racing, youth development, and community engagement. Despite its somewhat hidden location, it remains a vibrant part of Queens’ sporting landscape, hosting races, clinics, and a renowned free youth program called Star Track.
A Rare Sporting Venue with Olympic Roots
The Kissena Velodrome stands out as a unique sports facility in New York City, a place where the fast-paced, tactical world of track cycling unfolds. Constructed in 1963, it was built specifically for the 1964 U.S. Olympic trials, marking it as a site of national sporting significance. Although velodromes are common in cycling-centric countries, this is the only one in NYC, making it a rare and unusual landmark.
Over the decades, the velodrome has seen periods of decline and revival. After falling into disrepair by the early 2000s, it was renovated and rededicated in 2004 as part of New York City’s bid for the 2012 Summer Olympics. Today, it continues to serve as a competitive racing venue and community resource, preserving a slice of Olympic history in Queens.
The Kissena Velodrome Today: Active, Accessible, and Community-Focused
Currently, the Kissena Velodrome is fully operational and hosts a variety of cycling events, including the Kissena Twilight Racing Series and the Elite Track Omnium Championship. These events attract riders from across the region and showcase the velodrome’s role as a competitive cycling hub.
Beyond racing, the velodrome is a community asset, offering clinics and programs that welcome cyclists of all ages and skill levels. The venue is managed with support from local organizations and volunteers dedicated to maintaining its legacy and accessibility.
Star Track: Empowering NYC Youth Through Cycling
One of the velodrome’s standout programs is Star Track, a free youth cycling initiative that has been running since 2004. Designed for children ages 8 to 16 who already know how to ride a bike, Star Track teaches the fundamentals of track cycling, racing skills, sportsmanship, and teamwork.
Held during spring, summer, and fall sessions, Star Track is led by USA Cycling licensed coaches and provides all necessary equipment, including track bikes and helmets. The program has helped thousands of NYC kids, many from under-resourced communities, gain confidence and athletic skills, with participants earning over 50 national titles in recent years.
Visiting the Velodrome: What to Expect
The Kissena Velodrome is located within Kissena Park in Flushing, Queens, at the intersection of Booth Memorial Avenue and Parsons Boulevard. The track itself is a 400-meter outdoor concrete oval with steeply banked turns, providing a visually striking setting for races and training sessions.
Visitors can watch races during scheduled events or observe youth programs like Star Track in action. While the velodrome is not a drop-off program—parents and guardians must remain on-site during youth classes—it welcomes spectators and cycling enthusiasts interested in this specialized sport.
A Hidden Gem in Queens’ Sporting Landscape
Despite its rich history and ongoing activity, the Kissena Velodrome remains relatively unknown outside cycling circles. Its location in a large urban park and the niche nature of track cycling contribute to its low profile among the general public.
For New Yorkers and visitors alike, the velodrome offers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known facet of the city’s sports culture. Whether attending a race, supporting young riders, or simply discovering the site’s Olympic heritage, the Kissena Velodrome is a compelling local discovery.
Practical notes
- Access: Located in Kissena Park, Queens, at Booth Memorial Avenue and Parsons Boulevard.
- Hours: Seasonal and event-based; Star Track sessions run weekdays after school and Saturdays during spring and summer. Check official schedules before visiting.
- Cost: Star Track youth program is free; race events may have separate registration or spectator policies.
- Accessibility: Outdoor venue with concrete track; check with organizers for specific accessibility accommodations.
- Reservations: Registration required for youth programs; spectators generally free to attend races.
- Official Info: Visit https://kissenavelodrome.org/contact and https://www.startrackcycling.org for current details.
Tags: #sports_social #NYC #secret_NYC #things_to_do_in_NYC #New_York_City #Kissena_Park_Velodrome #Kissena_Velodrome_Queens #track_cycling_NYC #Star_Track_youth_cycling_program #Olympic_cycling_trials_venue #Queens_sports_landmarks #velodrome_cycling_events #free_youth_sports_NYC #Kissena_Park_cycling
Sources consulted: Kissena Velodrome Official Site · NYC Parks - Star Track Cycling · Star Track Cycling Official · Star Track Cycling Schedule · bikereg.com · bikereg.com · bikereg.com · imjustwalkin.com · untappedcities.com · bikinglist.com
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Want to know when to show up, what is currently open, and how to make the route work? Ask Karpo for the latest Kissena Velodrome access details and a low-friction NYC visit plan before you head out.
