World’s Fair relic now offers modern luxury

Terrace on the Park may be the most recognizable building in Queens.

Located by the iconic unisphere in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the 120-foot, T-shaped tower has played host to countless weddings, proms, sweet sixteens and other social events. Terrace on the Park is also a go-to venue for corporate events and conferences.

The tower was originally built for the 1964-65 World’s Fair, according to general manager Bruno Marques. Operated as a heliport by the Port Authority, it became the “aerial gateway” for the fair.

In August 1965, The Beatles famously landed on the structure prior to their Shea Stadium concert.

When the fair ended, the building was converted to a 1,100-seat, five-star restaurant called “Top of the Fair,” featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and an extravagant cocktail lounge.

Terrace on the Park General Manager Bruno Marques

“They had the bar on the promenade level where everyone would walk around,” Marques said. “Back then, they would buy an expensive glass of booze and see the whole park from above.”

Terrace on the Park then became a catering hall leased from the Parks Department. In 1998, an ownership group called Crystal Ball Group took over and renovated the building, adding marble, granite and chandeliers to make the venue stand out.

Recently, ownership invested close to $9 million in renovations to the building. They replaced the carpets, the dance floors and all of the bars. Marques said all of the improvements have been on the interior, but the iconic exterior has had some touch-ups as well.

Today, Terrance on the Park is a popular spot for not just social and business events, but also political fundraisers. Diplomats, mayors and elected officials from all levels of government have stepped foot inside the iconic building.

In addition to its unique look and celebrated history, Marques attributed part of the draw to its central location and accessible 1,200-car parking lot. The catering hall also offers managers, attendants and concierge who “make sure everything is perfect,” he said.

“Above all, we really take charge of our clients and make sure everything is taken care of properly,” Marques said.

At the end of the day, what separates Terrace on the Park from the rest is its breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Citi Field, Arthur Ashe Stadium, Queens Museum and other local attractions.

“You will never see a building built like this again in New York,” Marques said. “The views from up there are just stunning.

“You walk in and you take your clients in and they see that view,” he added. “Especially at night with the sun setting over the city, it’s just spectacular.”

Terrace on the Park has four levels, including scenic outdoor gardens on the first floor, the promenade space and the enormous ballrooms. On top of it all is the exclusive penthouse, featuring a full outdoor patio that has 360-degree views of the city.

“We have a lot to offer here, especially with the location and services,” he said.

Though Queens has many new and distinctive event spaces, Terrace on the Park still reigns supreme in terms of quality, making it the best venue for social, corporate and other large-scale events.

“If you want a classy event with great service, great food and a great atmosphere, stop by Terrace on the Park,” Marques said, “and we’ll be more than happy to help you.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *