Leonard Gordon Park
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
History and Establishment
Developed during the City Beautiful movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Leonard Gordon Park was designed by landscape architect John T. Withers, who incorporated many of the existing boulders and terrain features into his layout.
The park was established in 1907 when the Jersey City Charter Company sold the wooded hillside to the city for $46,000. It is named in honor of Dr. Leonard James Gordon, a civic leader who played a crucial role in founding the Jersey City Free Public Library.
Iconic Features
The park is perhaps best known for its larger-than-life stone statues of "Buffalo and Bears", created by sculptor Solon Hannibal Borglum, which have become iconic features of the landscape.
A World War I memorial, added in 1930, includes a statue of a doughboy, connecting the space to the city's history and honoring veterans.
Location and Landscape
Situated on Kennedy Boulevard at the edge of the Western Slope in the Heights neighborhood, the park encompasses 5.7 acres of land.
The park's terrain includes walking paths that wind through the rocky landscape, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls and exercise. Its elevated position on the Palisades offers views that make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Community Use
Leonard Gordon Park offers visitors a mix of natural beauty and recreational facilities. Various amenities cater to different age groups and interests, making it a versatile public space for Jersey City residents.
Over the years, the park has earned the affectionate nickname "Mosquito Park", a humorous nod to New Jersey's infamous insect population. Despite this moniker, it remains a valued green space in Jersey City, providing a place for recreation, relaxation, and community gatherings.
