Aqueduct took its name from the water infrastructure crossing the property: a conduit carried water from the Hempstead Plain towards New York City. The Queens County Jockey Club established racing on that site in an increasingly competitive local sporting market. Early support from tugboat owner William Carter helped attract better horses.
The ‘Big A’ identity followed a major rebuilding programme completed in 1959. Architect Arthur Froehlich’s new four-tier grandstand introduced escalators, extensive seating and air-conditioned public areas, replacing the earlier utilitarian course. Aqueduct also became a temporary home for the Belmont Stakes while Belmont Park was rebuilt in the 1960s.
Jamaica Bay. Explore the wildlife refuge’s walking routes and birdlife for a surprising natural landscape close to the city.
Queens Museum. Head to Flushing Meadows for the Panorama, a detailed model that brings the scale of New York City into view.
Queens has 2,405,464 residents.
