New Dorp-Midland Beach

Understanding New Dorp-Midland Beach

The Vanderbilt family’s New Dorp farmland became a federal air coast defense station completed in 1921. Miller Field later joined Gateway National Recreation Area.

Midland and South Beach once had a resort economy of bathing pavilions and amusements. Public works in the 1930s reshaped the shore as a boardwalk and recreation area.

Places to explore

• Miller Field

  Separate NPS area at the end of New Dorp Lane

  Look at the open former airfield setting and choose the public playground or basketball court. Sports fields, the community garden and picnic area need permits; they are not unrestricted drop-in facilities.

• Midland Beach boardwalk

  Along the East Shore

  Use the promenade for the shore landscape. A walk does not imply swimming access; check the current lifeguard season, conditions and any closure signs.

• Midland Beach memorials and dolphin fountain

  Along the boardwalk area

  Look for the war memorial and the Fountain of the Dolphins as specific public-art stops. The historic source explains the works; it does not guarantee the fountain is operating on a particular day.

• New Dorp Library

  309 New Dorp Lane

  For an indoor choice away from the shoreline, check the library's current reading and program schedule before traveling.

Planning a visit

NPS lists the S76 from the Staten Island Ferry to Miller Field’s New Dorp Lane entrance. Check current service before traveling.