When traveling in Queens, be prepared for a variety of weather including rain showers which are frequent in this coastal region. Umbrellas and light rain jackets are a must, but it can also be warm and humid when it rains. Winters can be cool and warmer jackets are required for winter months. Snow is even possible although it usually does not stick around for long. Summers are hot and humid and you and your pet will need to avoid overexerting yourself in muggy weather.
Multi-story apartments, duplexes, housing complexes, and single-family homes all make up the topography of the community. Single-family homes are set on good sized properties by New York standards. There is lots of mature landscaping, large trees, lawns, gardens, and shrubs and the neighborhood is very green in spring and summer with colorful foliage in the fall. Residential complexes have lawns with paved pedestrian paths connecting them. The freeways to the north and south are not pedestrian-friendly areas and should be avoided.
Cunningham Park is located to the west of Oakland Gardens and provides 358 acres of natural and recreation space. For furry friends, there are lots of paths and trails throughout the park to explore and a dog-friendly off-leash run located at 193rd Street between Aberdeen Road and Radnor Road. Picnics and barbecues are popular activities for local Oakland Gardens residents in this park and there are eateries and washrooms available as well. Other amenities include basketball courts, football and soccer fields, and volleyball courts providing recreational activities in the park.
To the west sits the spacious Alley Pond Park. At 655 acres, it is the second largest park in Queens and this park contains the tallest tree in New York City, the Queens Giant. There is also lots of natural terrain to explore in the park with your pup and facilities like bathrooms, basketball courts, handball courts, playgrounds, and a spray park are available.