Summary
Fort Totten in Bayside, NY, is a former U.S. Army base that is now a public park. Spanning almost 60 acres, this unique location also serves as training grounds for the FDNY and NYPD, with ongoing operations by the U.S. Army Reserve.
Situated on the East River/Long Island Sound and adjacent to the Throgs Neck Bridge, the grounds of Fort Totten feature a bulb of land jutting into the water, effectively separating Little Bay and Little Neck Bay.
What to See and Do
Fort Totten offers a diverse range of attractions. Visitors can explore an old fort, visit a visitors center filled with historical exhibits, learn more about local history at the Bayside Historical Society, enjoy playing fields, and take in stunning views while walking. Numerous artifacts from the area’s military past remain, with some structures in use and others in various states of disrepair. Moreover, the ongoing “north park” project seeks to enhance some former housing areas with additional park amenities.
The Old Fort
The old fort is accessible to the public. Constructed during the Civil War era, it was designed as a counterpart to Fort Schuyler, located across from it in the Bronx. Unfortunately, the fort was never fully completed, as advancements in artillery rendered its granite walls vulnerable to bombardment. Despite this, a couple of levels offer enough excitement for 30 to 45 minutes of exploration.
Concurrently, the Urban Park Rangers frequently lead tours starting from the visitors center. A couple of times a year, they also conduct tours of the extensive tunnels underneath the fort.
Visitors Center
The visitors center showcases several exhibits related to the fort’s history, covering both the Civil War era and more contemporary history, such as its role in the 1960s as the home to the 66th Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion. This center also serves as a meeting point for tours and various events led by rangers.
The Castle
The “Castle,” formerly known as the officers club, boasts a neo-Gothic architectural style. It is home to the Bayside Historical Society, which regularly organizes exhibits about local history. Additionally, the society sponsors the annual Totten Trot, a popular 5K race held in October.
Playing Fields
Local sports teams utilize the former parade grounds for competitions in soccer, football, and other activities.
Walking, Swimming, and Canoeing
Walking around Fort Totten provides breathtaking views of Little Bay, Little Neck Bay, Throgs Neck, and the Long Island Sound. The hilly terrain can be a workout, but it’s worth it for the vistas. The Queens Greenway connects Fort Totten to the footpath running between Little Neck Bay and the Cross Island Expressway. For those interested in swimming, there is an outdoor pool available. Canoers will find it enjoyable to explore the waterfront side of the old fort.
Directions
Fort Totten is located at the northern end of Bell Boulevard. Visitors can turn north onto 212th St or Totten Ave, with the fort entrance straight ahead. It is conveniently accessible from the Cross Island Expressway; simply take the Bell Boulevard exit and turn right onto Totten Ave from Cross Island North.
Parking
A parking lot for Little Bay Park is available immediately before the fort entrance, with free parking options. A tram sometimes operates from the parking lot to the primary destinations within the fort complex.
While it is possible to drive into the Fort Totten complex, it is not recommended due to limited parking availability. Access can be particularly challenging for visitors with small children or health concerns.
