5. The Oldest Living Thing: The Alley Pond Giant
The Alley Pond GIant in Alley Pond Park, between Douglaston and Bayside, Queens, is both the oldest and tallest tree in New York City. The Tulip Tree reaches nearly 134 feet into the air and is estimated to be at least 350 years old, according to NYC Parks.
Tulip Trees can live for 600 years, so the Alley Pond giant might still have a few centuries left. They can also grow over 150 feet tall. The next tallest Tulip tree in the city can be found in Clove Lakes, Staten Island. It’s nearly 15 feet shorter than its Queens cousin.