Lawrence Virgilio Playground | Things to Do & Nearby Attractions Guide 2025

October 16, 2025

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Lawrence Virgilio Playground Reviews | Things to Do & Nearby Attractions Guide 2025 — foxbusinessmarkets.com

Tucked between Queens Boulevard and 52nd Street Station, Lawrence Virgilio Playground is a cherished community space in Woodside, Queens, NY. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, modern play areas, and peaceful tree-lined setting, it offers a relaxing escape for both families and visitors.

This playground honors Firefighter Lawrence Virgilio, a local hero who bravely served during 9/11. Today, his name symbolizes unity, courage, and community spirit, values reflected in every corner of this well-maintained park.

Whether you’re a parent searching for a children’s park near 52nd Street Station, a jogger looking for a quiet route, or a visitor exploring Queens’ hidden gems, this playground provides the perfect mix of recreation and reflection.

Table of Contents

Quick Guide About Lawrence Virgilio Playground

Category	Details
⭐ Rating	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 / 5 (732 Reviews)
Type	Park
Overview	Urban park featuring a playground, basketball courts, running track, and a seasonal outdoor pool.
Pet Policy	🐾 Dogs Allowed
Address	📍 39th Rd, Woodside, NY 11377
Located In	Doughboy Plaza
Hours	6 AM–9 PM
Website	🌐 nycgovparks.org
Phone	☎️ (212) 639-9675

Location and Accessibility

Situated in Woodside, Queens, the Lawrence Virgilio Playground is easily accessible by public transport. Located just minutes from the 52nd Street – Lincoln Avenue Station, it connects smoothly with major routes like Queens Boulevard and Northern Boulevard.

Address: 39th Road & 48th Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377
Managed by: NYC Department of Parks & Recreation

🚗 How to Get There

By Subway: Take the 7 Train to 52nd Street Station — the playground is a 5-minute walk away.
By Bus: Accessible via the Q32 and Q60 bus routes.
By Car: Limited street parking is available near Queens Boulevard.

Families looking for safe and easy access to a children’s park near 52nd Street Station will appreciate how conveniently located this playground is — especially for day trips or quick weekend visits.

Location on Map:

Playground Features & Amenities

Renovated to serve families of all ages, Lawrence Virgilio Playground blends playfulness with thoughtful urban design. It’s clean, well-kept, and designed for both activity and relaxation.

🎠 Children’s Play Equipment

The playground offers slides, swings, climbing walls, and interactive installations suited for toddlers to pre-teens. Soft safety surfacing ensures a worry-free play experience.

🪑 Picnic and Seating Areas

Shaded benches and picnic tables create a cozy atmosphere for snacks, family lunches, or casual gatherings.

🧍‍♂️ Safety & Accessibility Features

Fully fenced and ADA-accessible, the park includes wide pathways and smooth ground surfaces for strollers and wheelchairs. Parents can easily supervise children thanks to open sightlines and safe, contained play zones.

🌳 Greenery and Design

Native plants, shaded trees, and modern landscaping make this small city space feel like a peaceful green retreat in the heart of Queens.

The History of Lawrence Virgilio Playground

The park’s namesake, Lawrence Virgilio, was a dedicated firefighter who served with FDNY Squad 18 and tragically lost his life during the September 11, 2001, attacks.

His legacy lives on through this playground — a space designed to represent courage, compassion, and the enduring spirit of community service.

🔗 Learn more: National Fallen Firefighters Foundation – Lawrence Virgilio

The park’s memorial plaque serves as a quiet reminder of his heroism, encouraging visitors to reflect and appreciate the sacrifices made for others.

Nearby Attractions and Things to Do

Lawrence Virgilio Playground isn’t just a destination — it’s a hub surrounded by vibrant local attractions in Woodside and Sunnyside, Queens.

🏞️ Visit Windmuller Park

Just a short walk away, Windmuller Park features sports fields, open lawns, and seasonal community events — perfect for families looking for more outdoor activities.

☕ Explore Queens Boulevard Cafés

After playtime, explore local favorites along Queens Boulevard, where you’ll find family-friendly cafés, bakeries, and small restaurants.

🛝 Nearby Parks and Playgrounds

Within a few miles are Sunnyside Gardens Park and Lou Lodati Park, offering dog runs, sports areas, and picnic zones — ideal for a full family day outdoors.

These nearby attractions make it easy to create a full itinerary when visiting this family park in Woodside, Queens.

Why Families Love This Park

Families consistently praise Lawrence Virgilio Playground for its cleanliness, safety, and welcoming community vibe. It’s not just a playground — it’s a place where neighborhood connections are built.

❤️ Loved for:

Clean and well-maintained play zones
Shaded seating and picnic spaces
Friendly local families
Accessibility for kids and seniors alike

It’s also one of the few Woodside playgrounds near 52nd Street Station that balances tranquility with lively activity, making it a reliable choice for daily visits.

6 Best Things to Do Around Lawrence Virgilio Playground (Woodside, Queens, NY)

Lawrence Virgilio Playground isn’t just another local park — it’s a lively community hub where families, kids, and outdoor lovers come together. Whether you’re visiting Woodside for the weekend or looking for something fun to do near Queens Boulevard, here are the six best activities and experiences to make the most of your visit.

1. Play, Relax, and Unwind at Lawrence Virgilio Playground

This playground is designed for families and children of all ages. It features modern swings, climbing structures, slides, and shaded picnic areas, creating a fun and safe environment for play. Parents can relax on nearby benches while children enjoy open spaces and well-maintained play zones.
The area is fenced, well-lit, and secure, making it ideal for toddlers and school-age kids alike. If you visit in the morning, you’ll often find families and joggers enjoying the peaceful start of the day.

2. Explore the Adjacent Windmuller Park

Connected to the playground, Windmuller Park offers even more green space and recreation. It’s perfect for jogging, picnicking, or playing soccer and frisbee. You can stroll through the tree-lined paths or simply stretch out on the grass and enjoy the local vibe.
Windmuller Park often hosts community gatherings and outdoor events, making it one of the most vibrant green areas in Woodside. The transition from the playground to the park is seamless, giving you a full day of outdoor fun.

3. Grab a Bite at Local Cafés and Eateries

After some outdoor play, explore Queens Boulevard and the 52nd Street Station area, which are filled with family-friendly restaurants, delis, and bakeries. From classic New York pizza to international dishes like Filipino, Thai, and Colombian cuisine, Woodside is a foodie’s delight.
Many visitors recommend grabbing a smoothie or coffee to-go and heading back to the park to enjoy it under the trees. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a quick snack, the local food scene perfectly complements your playground adventure.

4. Visit the Local Library or Community Center

Just a short walk from the playground, the Woodside Library, and nearby community centers offer great indoor options for families. Kids can enjoy story hours, arts and crafts, or educational programs, while adults can browse books or participate in workshops.
It’s a great backup plan for rainy days or if you need a quiet break from outdoor activities. Plus, visiting the library gives children a fun mix of play and learning — all within walking distance of the park.

5. Take a Scenic Walk Through Woodside’s Neighborhood Streets

One of the best-kept secrets about visiting this area is simply wandering through the charming Woodside neighborhood. You’ll find tree-lined streets, cozy local shops, and classic New York brownstones.
Many visitors love capturing photos of Sankaty-style homes and historic Queens architecture, which give the area its warm, inviting character. It’s an easy, free way to extend your trip while discovering local gems.

6. Join Seasonal Events and Local Celebrations

Throughout the year, the park and surrounding area host community events, concerts, and cultural celebrations. Keep an eye on the NYC Parks events calendar for updates on outdoor movie nights, children’s fairs, art workshops, and live music performances.
These events bring neighbors and visitors together, creating a real sense of belonging and fun. It’s also a great way to meet locals and experience the authentic Queens community life.

Lawrence Virgilio Playground Reviews

Overall Rating: (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) 4.6/5 – 732 Reviews. Google Reviews

Visitor Tips and Park Etiquette

If you’re planning a visit, here are some helpful suggestions to make the most of your time:

Bring snacks or lunch — picnic tables are available but can fill up fast.
Arrive early on weekends for easy parking and quieter mornings.
Respect the memorial areas and help keep the park litter-free.
Check seasonal updates on the official NYC Parks page for maintenance or event schedules.

Following these tips ensures the park remains clean, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone.

FAQs

Q1. Where exactly is Lawrence Virgilio Playground located?
It’s at 54th Street and 39th Drive, beside Windmuller Park in Woodside, Queens, NY.

Q2. Who was Lawrence Virgilio?
He was a firefighter and paramedic who lost his life responding to the 9/11 attacks. The park was renamed in his honor in 2002.

Q3. What amenities does the playground offer?
It includes slides, swings, picnic tables, basketball courts, and wheelchair-accessible paths.

Q4. Is the playground suitable for toddlers?
Yes, there are age-appropriate play zones and soft-surface flooring for safety.

Q5. Are there restrooms available?
Yes, restrooms are available through Windmuller Park, located adjacent to the playground.

Conclusion — A Tribute, A Playground, A Community Space

The Lawrence Virgilio Playground isn’t just a play area, it’s a symbol of community unity and resilience. From its accessible design to its peaceful surroundings, it stands as one of the best children’s parks near 52nd Street Station and a must-visit destination in Woodside, Queens.

Whether you’re a local parent, a visitor exploring Queens, or simply searching for a family-friendly playground in New York City, this park promises both recreation and reflection — a true tribute to the man whose name it proudly carries.

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