Woodhaven

Understanding Woodhaven

Community Board 9 traces Woodhaven’s growth to Jamaica Avenue, a toll road in the early nineteenth century. It also records the Union Course racetrack and summer estates. These histories explain a neighborhood where houses and commerce developed together.

QPL identifies Woodhaven among the surviving library buildings funded through Andrew Carnegie's borough contribution. Neir's Tavern's own account dates its founding to 1829.

Forest Park began with a Brooklyn Parks Department purchase in 1895, before consolidation into New York City. Parks describes glacially formed hills, wooded areas and trails. Plan it as a separate outing rather than expecting a quick detour from every Woodhaven stop.

Places to explore

• Woodhaven Library

  85-41 Forest Parkway

  The operating branch offers public programs, reading and computer services. QPL lists wheelchair access. Check current hours before planning an interior visit.

• Neir’s Tavern

  87-48 78th Street

  The operator offers food, drinks and a separately bookable history tour. Consult the current menu, hours and reservations for a meal. Booking a table is different from booking the tour.

• Forest Park

  Separate parkland north of Woodhaven

  Choose a specific entrance and activity for the woodland trails and recreation facilities.

Planning a visit

Use Forest Parkway for the library and 78th Street for the tavern. Forest Park requires its own entrance choice; this is not a verified continuous walking route.

Check the library and tavern independently. Follow current park notices for facilities and paths.