Parks & Recreation
Regardless of the time of year, green spaces beckon people to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine, whether it’s for a little yoga, a picnic, or a cup of coffee.
Central Park
Designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted, it is the most-visited urban park in the entire country. Central Park has some amazing pockets of fun like the historic carousel near south of strawberry field. You can enjoy the ride or take a ton of pictures here. There’s also the Belvedere Castle which was recently renovated and is a big hit with the kids. Or if you are looking for a zoo for a little one the Central Park Zoo has bird, penguins and a feeding section which will keep them entertained. Insider Tip: there are multiple food options in the park to get snacks one by the boat pond (enter on 72nd and 5th) and the other just north of strawberry fields.
Closest entrance to hotel on 59th and Fifth Avenue
Distance from Hotel: 1 mile or a 20 minute walk
Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a beloved, year-round New York City destination situated directly behind the New York Public Library. Known as Manhattan’s Town Square, the park is famous for its lush seasonal gardens, free activities and al fresco dining. Depending on when you are visiting, there are several seasonal markets such as the cold-weather Winter Village and the springtime Makers Market. Additional events include outdoor fitness classes and regular “movies under the stars” screenings.
40th and 42nd Streets, Fifth and Sixth Avenues
Distance from hotel: 1.2 miles
The High Line
The High Line came to life in 2009, when an old piece of elevated railway track on the Lower West Side of Manhattan was transformed into a verdant floating garden. Now plants and flowers flourish along the walkway, which stretches for almost two miles. Take your time strolling along it and stop to check out the sculptures, shallow pools (especially irresistible on a hot day), the food court and the view of the Hudson.
Closest entrance to hotel on 30th Street and 10th Avenue
Distance from hotel: 2.2 miles
Explore a new public park, located in Hudson River Park, where visitors can experience nature and art in a unique urban oasis on the Hudson River.
Pier 55 in Hudson River Park at, W 13th St, New York, NY 10014
Distance from hotel: 2.9 miles
Hudson River Park
This strip of waterfront park stretches from Battery Park to 59th Street, allowing you to walk, bike or skate while looking at the Hudson River and New Jersey. There are flowers, benches, piers and lots of programs—including youth sports and kayak rides in the river.
Closest entrance to hotel on 23rd Street and 11th Avenue
Distance from hotel: 2.8 miles
Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is one of NYC’s most recognizable public spaces. Pass beneath the Washington Arch—the giant structure marking the park’s Fifth Avenue entrance on the north side—and you’ll see the energy that makes the place so special. NYU students congregate around a central fountain; sunbathers lie on the lawn; musicians sit on benches strumming guitars; and canines run gleefully amok in two dog runs.
Closest entrance to hotel on the corner of University Place and Waverly Place
Distance from hotel: 2.6 miles
A seven-minute ride on a free ferry takes you to this island sanctuary, and only 800 yards from lower Manhattan. Governors Island is a 172-acre island in the heart of New York Harbor. As a hub of recreational activity, from biking and play fields to winding pathways, take in with extraordinary views of both the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor while relaxing at the Hills park.
Governors Island: 870-898 Gresham Rd, New York, NY 10004
Domino Park
Part of the ongoing redevelopment of the Domino Sugar Refinery site, Domino Park spreads along the waterfront just north of the Williamsburg Bridge. An elevated walkway offers views of the surrounding area and across the river to Manhattan. Two water features help you cool off, good if the kids have been running around in the factory-inspired playground.
River Street (north of Williamsburg Bridge), Brooklyn, NY, United States, 11249
Distance from hotel: 5.3 miles