Kissena Velodrome

Hello, New York cyclists! Are you looking for a unique and exhilarating way to enjoy your passion for cycling right here in the heart of our vibrant city? Beyond the usual street rides and bike paths, there's a truly special place that offers a different kind of pedaling experience. We're talking about the **Kissena Velodrome**, a remarkable outdoor cycling park located right here in Queens.

This article is designed to be your comprehensive guide to the Kissena Velodrome, helping you understand why it's considered a "hidden gem" by local riders. We'll explore its unique features, location, what kind of activities you can engage in, and why it's a fantastic resource for New Yorkers of all cycling levels. Get ready to discover a new favorite spot for your two-wheeled adventures!

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The Kissena Velodrome is a historic and unique outdoor cycling track nestled within Kissena Park in Flushing, Queens. Unlike typical bike paths or roads, a velodrome is a purpose-built track designed for bicycle racing and high-speed cycling. It features steeply banked turns, allowing riders to maintain speed and experience the thrill of track cycling. The Kissena Velodrome holds a significant place in New York's cycling history, having been a training ground and race venue for generations of cyclists.

It is one of only a handful of outdoor velodromes in the United States and offers an accessible opportunity for New Yorkers to engage in track cycling, whether for competitive training, fitness, or simply the sheer joy of riding on a specialized track. Its unique design and open access make it a standout feature in the city's vast recreational landscape. The velodrome provides a safe and controlled environment for cyclists to push their limits and experience the dynamism of track riding without the concerns of urban traffic.

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The Kissena Velodrome is situated within Kissena Park in Flushing, Queens, specifically at **Kissena Velodrome, Flushing, NY 11355, USA**. This location in Queens makes it remarkably accessible for a large portion of the New York metropolitan area, particularly for residents of Queens, Brooklyn, and even parts of Long Island and Manhattan.

Accessing the velodrome is relatively straightforward. For those traveling by car, customer reviews frequently highlight the availability of "plenty of parking," a significant advantage in a densely populated area like New York City. This ample parking makes it convenient for cyclists to transport their bikes to the track.

Public transportation options also serve the area around Kissena Park. Various MTA bus lines operate near the park, connecting to subway lines (such as the 7 train to Main Street-Flushing, which is a major transit hub) and other parts of Queens. While not directly adjacent to a subway station, the combination of bus routes and the availability of parking ensures that the velodrome is within reach for many New Yorkers. Its location within a public park also means it benefits from existing park infrastructure and pathways, making the final approach to the track itself easy for cyclists.

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As a public outdoor cycling park, the Kissena Velodrome primarily offers access to its unique cycling track. While it doesn't operate like a commercial business offering rentals or staffed services, its core "service" is providing a dedicated, specialized cycling environment. Based on customer experiences and the nature of a velodrome, the key offerings include:

• Access to a Dedicated Cycling Track: The primary "service" is free and open access to a world-class outdoor velodrome track. This provides a safe, traffic-free environment specifically designed for high-speed cycling.
• Opportunity for Track Cycling: Users can experience track cycling, which involves riding fixed-gear bicycles (though not exclusively, as many ride road bikes) on a banked oval. This is a unique discipline that builds specific cycling skills and offers a thrilling experience.
• Training Grounds for Cyclists: The velodrome serves as an excellent training facility for competitive cyclists looking to improve their speed, cornering, and group riding skills in a controlled setting.
• Recreational Riding Space: Beyond competitive training, it's a fantastic spot for casual cyclists looking for a smooth, uninterrupted ride. The freshly paved surface makes for an enjoyable experience.
• Community Hub (unofficial): While not a formal service, the velodrome often acts as a gathering point for local cycling clubs and groups. This fosters a sense of community among riders.
• Venue for Events and Races: Though users are advised to "Go very early mornings as sometimes there are races/events happening," this indicates that the velodrome hosts organized cycling events, including races, which are a 'service' to the wider cycling community and spectators.

It's important to understand that Kissena Velodrome is a public facility. Therefore, "services" are more about the infrastructure and opportunities it provides rather than customer service in a retail sense. Users typically bring their own equipment and are responsible for their own safety and conduct on the track.

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The Kissena Velodrome stands out as a unique and invaluable resource for cyclists in New York due to several distinctive features and highlights:

• Outdoor Velodrome in Queens: This is its most defining characteristic. Being one of the few outdoor velodromes in the country, and located right in the heart of Queens, makes it incredibly accessible to a large urban population. It offers a track cycling experience that is rare to find.
• Beautiful Banked Turns: The velodrome's design features "beautiful banked turns." These steep inclines allow riders to maintain momentum and speed through corners without significant effort, providing an exhilarating and unique sensation compared to flat-ground cycling.
• Freshly Paved Surface: A "freshly paved" track is a significant highlight. A smooth, well-maintained surface ensures a safer, faster, and more enjoyable ride, reducing the risk of punctures and providing optimal rolling resistance for cyclists.
• Free Access for All: A major draw is that access to the Kissena Velodrome is "all free!" This makes high-quality track cycling accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget, encouraging broader participation in the sport.
• Plenty of Parking: As noted by a customer, the velodrome offers "plenty of parking." This is a huge convenience in NYC, especially for those transporting bikes or driving to the park, making visits hassle-free.
• "Hidden Gem" Status: Described as "one of the coolest hidden gems of Queens," the velodrome offers a unique escape from the typical urban cycling environment. It provides a distinct cycling experience that feels special and often less crowded than mainstream bike paths.
• Opportunity for Diverse Cycling Experiences: Whether you're a seasoned racer, a fitness enthusiast, or just curious to try something new, the velodrome accommodates various levels of cycling. It allows for both structured training and relaxed laps.
• Community and Event Potential: The fact that "sometimes there are races/events happening" highlights its role as a hub for organized cycling activities and a place where the local cycling community can gather and celebrate the sport.

These features combine to make the Kissena Velodrome a truly exceptional and valued resource for New York's cycling community.

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While the Kissena Velodrome itself is a public park facility and doesn't have a direct "storefront" type of contact, you can often find information or contact related organizations. For general park inquiries or specific event schedules, you might refer to the NYC Parks Department. However, based on the provided information, the general contact details that would typically be associated with a public amenity or related local groups are:

• Address: Kissena Velodrome, Flushing, NY 11355, USA
• Phone: (212) 639-9675

It's important to note that this phone number is likely associated with the NYC Parks Department or a related city service that oversees the park and its facilities, rather than a dedicated velodrome office. For the most up-to-date information on operating hours, any temporary closures, or scheduled events, checking the official NYC Parks website or local cycling club calendars that frequently use the velodrome would be highly recommended.

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For New Yorkers passionate about cycling, the Kissena Velodrome is more than just a park; it's an invaluable urban asset and a true "hidden gem." Its suitability for locals stems from a unique combination of accessibility, specialized facilities, and an inclusive, community-focused environment.

Firstly, its prime location in Queens, coupled with "plenty of parking," makes it an incredibly convenient destination for cyclists across the boroughs and beyond. This ease of access encourages more frequent visits, allowing locals to integrate track cycling into their regular fitness routines or leisure activities without extensive travel. The fact that it's "all free" democratizes access to a specialized sport, removing financial barriers and making high-quality cycling accessible to everyone in the diverse communities of New York City. This inclusivity is particularly important in a city with varied economic backgrounds, ensuring that the thrill of track cycling isn't exclusive.

Secondly, the "beautiful banked turns" and "freshly paved" surface offer a superior riding experience that simply cannot be replicated on city streets or typical bike paths. This controlled, smooth environment is ideal for practicing speed, improving handling skills, or simply enjoying the pure sensation of uninhibited cycling. It provides a safe haven away from traffic, allowing riders to focus solely on their performance and enjoyment.

Finally, the velodrome fosters a strong sense of community. While not formally managed as such, its regular use by various cycling groups and the occurrence of races and events create a hub where like-minded individuals can connect, train together, and share their passion. This communal aspect enriches the cycling experience, offering opportunities for learning, camaraderie, and friendly competition. For New Yorkers seeking a unique, accessible, safe, and community-driven cycling experience that goes beyond the ordinary, the Kissena Velodrome is an absolute must-visit. It truly embodies the spirit of local recreation and athletic pursuit in the Big Apple.

Kissena Velodrome

Kissena Velodrome, Flushing, NY 11355, USA