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OAKLAND GARDENS - Queens - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of Oakland Gardens. I will be returning in the near future for a dedicated tour of the neighborhood, so please keep checking the Updates page and my YouTube channel!

Oakland Gardens is a quiet, sleepy neighborhood in central Queens, tucked between Cunningham and Alley Pond Parks. To its north is Bayside, while Hollis Hills is to the south.

Oakland Gardens slideshow (Coming Soon):

The Neighborhood

Oakland Gardens is an oasis in central Queens. While the busy Long Island Expressway marks its northern edge, the south is defined by the hidden, quiet, and long-abandoned Vanderbilt Parkway - itself a secluded connection between Cunningham and Alley Pond Parks.

73rd Avenue offers the most commercial segment of the neighborhood which is dominated by single-family manors and upscale co-op complexes.

Oakland Gardens is a residential neighborhood located in the northeastern part of Queens, New York City. The area is known for its tranquil and suburban atmosphere, making it a popular choice for families and retirees. The neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes, high-rise apartments, and townhouses. With a number of parks and green spaces, residents can enjoy outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling, and picnicking. The neighborhood is served by a variety of public transportation options, including multiple bus lines and the Long Island Rail Road. Oakland Gardens is home to a diverse community and a range of restaurants, shopping centers, and community amenities.

The Story Behind the Name Oakland Gardens, Queens

Oakland Gardens, located in the northeastern part of Queens, is one of the many diverse neighborhoods that make up New York City. But have you ever wondered how this neighborhood got its interesting name?

As early as the late 1800s, Oakland Gardens was simply a rural area with open fields of green grass and trees. The land was used mainly for farming and a few small homesteads. However, in 1906, William Masker purchased around 400 acres of the land and began building a housing development.

Masker envisioned a beautiful and peaceful community that would provide a refuge from the bustle of the city. He wanted the new neighborhood to evoke the calm and serenity of an oak tree, which symbolizes strength, longevity, and beauty.

Thus, the name "Oakland Gardens" was born. The name perfectly reflects the beauty of the neighborhood's parks and gardens, which are filled with sprawling oak trees that have grown for generations.

Today, Oakland Gardens is a thriving and diverse neighborhood, filled with a mix of residential and commercial properties. Its name serves as a reminder of the natural beauty that once dominated the area and continues to thrive in the present day.

Oakland Gardens is a quiet, suburban neighborhood located in the eastern part of Queens, New York. The area was originally inhabited by the Matinecock Native American tribe, who were displaced by Dutch settlers in the 1600s. The neighborhood took its name from the Oakland Golf Course, which was established in the early 1900s. In the 1950s, the neighborhood experienced significant growth with the construction of single-family homes and apartment buildings. Today, Oakland Gardens offers a mix of residential properties and local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and parks. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and strong community spirit.

Oakland Gardens in Queens is a neighborhood that boasts several major landmarks and attractions. One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is Cunningham Park, a 358-acre park that offers hiking trails, bike paths, and playgrounds. Another popular site in Oakland Gardens is Alley Pond Environmental Center, which houses interactive exhibits and nature explorations programs for all ages. For sports enthusiasts, the Queens County Farm Museum is a must-visit location, as it features a petting zoo, a corn maze, and a pumpkin patch. Additionally, the Bellerose-Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful natural space that provides bird watching opportunities and serene trails for residents to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Overall, Oakland Gardens is a neighborhood that has something for everyone, with its combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and fun recreational activities.

Oakland Gardens, Queens is home to a few famous individuals. One of the most notable is Richard A. Brown, who served as the district attorney of Queens County for almost 28 years. He was recognized for his tough stance on crime, particularly his crackdown on gang violence. Another famous person from Oakland Gardens is Edward Sirait, who became the first Indonesian-American elected to public office in New York City. Sirait was a member of the Community Education Council for School District 26 and was known for advocating for better education for all children. Finally, filmmaker Henry Jaglom was born in Oakland Gardens and has directed and written several movies, including "Eating" and "Deja Vu." Overall, Oakland Gardens may be a small neighborhood, but it is home to some notable figures who have made significant contributions to society.

Highlight Gallery (Coming Soon)

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters