Marsha P. Johnson State Park

Riverside Escape

This 7-acre space along the East River in Williamsburg, Brooklyn offers impressive Manhattan skyline views great for photography enthusiasts. It's a little green haven amid Brooklyn's urban hustle - an excellent spot to catch your breath and soak in the city from a different perspective.

There's this cool sandy beach area where you can dip your toes near the East River (though swimming is off-limits - safety first!). The view at sunset is particularly nice, with the fading light over Manhattan creating a memorable scene.

A Touch of History

Walking through the park feels like stepping through time. As a former 19th century shipping dock, you'll notice old cobblestone streets beneath your feet and railroad tracks literally embedded in concrete - pretty neat reminders of Brooklyn's industrial past. Interpretive signs scattered throughout fill you in on all the historical details if you're curious.

Native meadow plants are woven between the old rail yard remnants. This contrast between greenery and industrial relics gives the place a distinctive character.

Canada geese rest on the rocky shoreline with the Manhattan skyline stretching across the horizon

Photo: Lou Stejskal (CC BY 2.0)

Honoring a Legend

The park received its current name in 2020 as a tribute to Marsha P. Johnson, a transgender woman of color who was a true pioneer in the LGBTQ civil rights movement and played a vital role in the Stonewall Uprising.

In 2023, they installed this beautiful decorative gateway entrance featuring floral sculptures and the phrase "Pay It No Mind," which was Johnson's personal motto. Within the park, you'll discover permanent interpretive panels that tell the story of Johnson's life, activism, and impact on the community.

Visitors relax on the lawn with Midtown Manhattan visible across the river

Photo: alchen_x (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Community Living Room

The park is often filled with locals reading on grassy patches, friends having picnics, or solo visitors enjoying the view. There are plenty of picnic tables with umbrellas scattered around - many positioned to capture those gorgeous river views.

During warmer months, Smorgasburg operates in the park on Saturdays. This open-air food market features dozens of vendors serving everything from Korean street food to artisanal ice cream, attracting many New Yorkers each weekend.

The Empire State Building rises beyond the East River at dusk

Photo: Dennis Fraevich (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Fresh Updates

The park was refreshed in 2021 with new trees, pathways, gardens, and event spaces. There are gender-neutral restrooms housed in repurposed shipping containers, aligning with the park's industrial-meets-nature aesthetic.

It's worth noting that this is the first state park in New York named after an LGBTQ person and a transgender woman of color - a meaningful step in recognizing diverse contributions to shared history.