Captain Roald Amundsen Plaza

A Touch of History

Situated in Staten Island's Oakwood Heights neighborhood, Captain Roald Amundsen Plaza sits quietly at the intersection of Amboy Road, Clarke Avenue, and Savoy Street. This little green pocket became part of New York City's landscape in 1928 and got its official name on September 7, 1929.

The plaza honors Captain Roald Engelbregt Gravning Amundsen, the intrepid Norwegian explorer who first reached the South Pole. If you're a history buff or just appreciate cool stories from the past, this spot has a genuine connection to one of exploration's greatest figures.

A Unique Memorial

What makes this plaza special isn't elaborate monuments but something far more authentic - a boulder actually dropped off by a glacier during one of Amundsen's expeditions. This natural piece of history is the base for a commemorative plaque. There's something pretty remarkable about touching something that witnessed polar exploration firsthand, right in the middle of New York City.

Seasonal Changes

Despite its modest size, the plaza transforms with the seasons thanks to the NYC Department of Parks' thoughtful landscaping. Spring brings daffodils and various flowers that dot the space with splashes of color.

Come fall, the changing foliage creates a different kind of beauty, making this small urban space worth visiting at different times of the year. The natural elements give this historical spot a living, breathing quality throughout the seasons.

Part of the Community

While you won't spend all day here, Amundsen Plaza offers a moment of green tranquility in the urban landscape. It's particularly peaceful during non-rush hours if you need a quick break from the city's pace.

The plaza occasionally features in guided tours of the historic district, connecting visitors to both local history and the broader story of polar exploration. It's a small but meaningful link between this Staten Island neighborhood and adventures at the ends of the earth.