Williamsburg, Brooklyn is home to Domino Park, a 6-acre area along the East River. Those living or renting Williamsburg apartments at nearby 420 Kent or 325 Kent Ave can find plenty to do in Domino Park, whether it be taking a stroll, exercising, or relaxing in the grass.
The Park’s History
Although Domino Park just opened to the public in June 2018, there is no lack of history to be found. The park’s name comes from the Domino Sugar Refinery, the sugar factory that once stood in the same location.
History is bursting in this area, and the park’s designers strived to keep that alive. You can stroll through Artifact Walk to observe original factory equipment like the syrup collection tanks along the five blocks of riverside land. This elevated walkway offers a breathtaking view of Williamsburg and is made to appear like the interior of the original refinery. You’ll also see original crane tracks and reclaimed wood throughout the park.
The Domino Sugar Refinery stopped operating in 2004 and sat vacant for several years until Two Trees Management purchased the property in 2012. While the park was beginning construction, Hurricane Sandy impacted New York, prompting builders to move the park to higher elevation as a safeguard against future natural disasters.
Construction continued from 2012 to 2018, bringing forth the park and surrounding Williamsburg apartments like 325 Kent Ave and 420 Kent Ave, the first to be built on the budding property.
A Multifunctional Space
Domino Park is a space where all can visit to spend the day, and it strives to keep history alive. Children have a special playground that pays homage to the original purpose of the area. Sweetwater Playground was designed by Mark Reigelman and gets its name because the equipment and layout mimic the sugar refining process.
Reigelman ensured that some original materials from the refinery were used in the construction of the playground. Concerning the design, he claims, “The idea is that a child enters as raw sugar cane and exits at the last portion of the playground as molasses, or sugar cubes.” Elements like climbing tunnels, slides, and silos are just a few of the places children can explore.
The park also presents various ways to exercise. You can get out with your furry friend and play in the dog run, or you can hop into a game of bocce or volleyball.
If you live in or are renting one of the Williamsburg apartments 325 Kent Ave or 420 Kent you are a short distance from the par. Domino Park is open seven days a week from 6:00 AM-1:00 AM.
Domino Park may be one of Williamsburg’s newest sites, but it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular. The park offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its combination of nature, history, and fun. Your waterfront rental at 420 Kent puts you in the perfect location to experience the beauty of Domino Park.