Leonard Gordon Park / "Mosquito Park"

Leonard Gordon Park is a municipal park located in Jersey City, New Jersey, specifically in the Heights neighborhood. Situated on Kennedy Boulevard at the edge of the Western Slope, the park encompasses 5.7 acres of land. Developed during the City Beautiful movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was designed by landscape architect John T. Withers, who incorporated many of the existing boulders and terrain features into his layout.

The park was established in 1907 when the Jersey City Charter Company sold the wooded hillside to the city for $46,000. It is named in honor of Dr. Leonard James Gordon, a civic leader who played a crucial role in founding the Jersey City Free Public Library. The park is perhaps best known for its larger-than-life stone statues of "Buffalo and Bears," created by sculptor Solon Hannibal Borglum, which have become iconic features of the landscape.

Leonard Gordon Park offers visitors a mix of natural beauty and recreational facilities. The park's terrain includes walking paths that wind through the rocky landscape, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls and exercise. Its elevated position on the Palisades offers views that make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

In addition to its natural features, the park includes various amenities for community use. These facilities cater to different age groups and interests, making it a versatile public space for Jersey City residents. The park also features a World War I memorial, added in 1930, which includes a statue of a doughboy, connecting the space to the city's history and honoring veterans.

Over the years, Leonard Gordon Park has earned the affectionate nickname "Mosquito Park," a humorous nod to New Jersey's infamous insect population. Despite this moniker, the park remains a valued green space in Jersey City, providing a place for recreation, relaxation, and community gatherings.