Stargazing

Join the Amateur Astronomers Association (AAA) at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free stargazing sessions — typically one Friday of each month, unless otherwise indicated. All events start 30 minutes after sunset. Events are canceled in the event of rain or if the sky is overcast. Click below to learn more.

Kayaking

Explore Floyd Bennett Field first-hand through free, fun, and educational paddling programs!

There are multiple different types of paddles for different levels of experience. The shortest paddles are listed as “Tryouts,” “Beginner” and “Learn to paddle” programs. For those with a little bit more experience, there are slightly longer trips simply called “Paddles.” “Excursions” are the longest trips intended for those who have paddled the listed distance before.

All programs are free, but require a reservation, unless indicated.

Call 718 758-3671 for more information, and to make a reservation.

Hangar B Historic Aircraft

Volunteers with the Historic Aircraft Restoration Project (HARP) come to Hangar B at Gateway National Recreation Area's Floyd Bennett Field on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays to preserve historic aircraft and interpret them for the public. HARP works within the National Park Service Volunteers-in-Parks (VIP) program and is entrusted with three goals. The group researches, restores and helps preserve part of our nation's rich aviation heritage.

Visitors to Hangar B can see these dedicated VIPs working on the park's collection of historic aircraft. What makes a visit unique is that visitors can see, hear, and feel what it is like to be in a working airplane hangar. It's easy to go back in time and imagine what a visit to Hangar B in 1945 or 1965 would have been like.

Hangar B at Floyd Bennett Field is open to visitors for guided tours from National Park Service Rangers — next on Sunday, May 25, from 2pm to 3pm.

Ryan Visitor Center

Floyd Bennett Field's Administration Building was built during the initial phase of construction for Floyd Bennett Field, New York City's first municipal airport. It was both the air traffic control station and the passenger terminal for the airport. The terminal featured unique features such as passenger loading tunnels, to keep airline passengers dry during foul weather.

When the U.S. Navy purchased Floyd Bennett Field in 1941 the building became the main operations center and headquarters for Naval Air Station - New York. Floyd Bennett Field became part of the National Park Service in 1972 when Gateway National Recreation Area was established. The building was designated as one of Gateway's visitor centers, and named for Congressman William Fitts Ryan, former representative of 10th congressional district in New York.

Start your visit to Floyd Bennett Field with a stop in the Ryan Visitor Center. Learn about the golden age of aviation at this former municipal airport.

The Ryan Visitor Center is open to the public Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 12 pm.