Best Parks & Green Spaces in Manhattan, United States

Manhattan, United States, Manhattan, Outdoor & Adventure, Best Parks & Green Spaces

Best Parks & Green Spaces in Manhattan, United States

1. Central Park

A massive urban park known for its iconic landscape and activities like boating, ice skating, and the Central Park Zoo.
  • Size and Diversity: Spans over 843 acres, making it one of the largest parks in Manhattan.
  • Activities and Amenities: Offers a range of activities from sports courts to cultural events throughout the year.
  • Iconic Landmarks: Includes famous landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and the Alice in Wonderland statue.

2. High Line

An elevated park built on a historic freight rail line, offering stunning views of Manhattan's architecture and West Side.
  • Urban Renewal: Transformation of an abandoned railway into a vibrant public park showcases urban revitalization.
  • Art and Culture: Features various public art installations and seasonal programming like art exhibits and music events.
  • Sustainable Design: Employs sustainable design principles, including native plantings and rainwater collection systems.

3. Battery Park

A waterfront park located at the southern tip of Manhattan, offering views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and New York Harbor.
  • Historic Significance: Situated where Manhattan meets the Hudson River, it has played a crucial role in New York's history.
  • Ferry Access: Provides ferry service to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for easy access to these iconic landmarks.
  • Garden Escape: Features beautiful gardens, sculptures, and memorials throughout the park.

4. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

A museum located on Pier 86 that houses historic military and maritime artifacts, including the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier.
  • Military History: Showcases a collection of military and space artifacts, providing a unique look into history.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that engage visitors and bring the collection to life.
  • Outdoor Exploration: Includes outdoor spaces where visitors can explore restored aircraft, a submarine, and a Spaceshuttle.

5. Roosevelt Island

An island located between Manhattan and Queens, featuring the iconic Roosevelt Island Tramway, beautiful parks, and the FDR Four Freedoms Park.
  • Tranquil Retreat: Provides a peaceful escape from bustling Manhattan with its parks and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Architectural Wonders: Includes architectural landmarks like the Four Freedoms Park by Louis Kahn.
  • Accessibility: Easily accessible via the Roosevelt Island Tramway or the F train on the subway.

6. Grant's Tomb

The final resting place of U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife Julia Dent Grant, located in Morningside Heights.
  • Historic Significance: A national monument dedicated to a prominent U.S. President and military leader.
  • Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by John Merven Carrère and Thomas Hastings, the tomb is an architectural masterpiece.
  • Tranquil Garden: Set within a beautiful garden that offers a peaceful respite from city life.

7. The New York Botanical Garden

A sprawling botanical garden located in the Bronx, showcasing diverse plant collections and beautiful landscapes.
  • Diverse Plant Life: Features over one million plants across various collections, including tropical rainforest and desert landscapes.
  • Historic Conservatory: Includes the historic Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, which showcases a variety of plant species year-round.
  • Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for all ages, including workshops and guided tours.

8. Madison Square Park

A historic park in Flatiron District featuring the famous Shannon statue of Shymon Bolivar.
  • Iconic Statue: Features the iconic equestrian statue of Simon Bolivar, South America's liberator.
  • Urban Oasis: Serves as an urban oasis in the heart of bustling Manhattan.
  • Contemporary Art: Offers contemporary art installations throughout the park.

9. Green-Wood Cemetery

A historic cemetery in Brooklyn that serves as a park and features notable monuments and landscapes.
  • Historic Landmarks: Features hundreds of historic landmarks, including the Green-Wood Cathedral.
  • Nature and Wildlife: Provides a sanctuary for wildlife within its lush greenery and wooded areas.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty from its highest point.

10. Brooklyn Bridge Park

A waterfront park located in Brooklyn that offers stunning views of Manhattan, the East River, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
  • Waterfront Vistas: Features breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
  • Recreational Amenities: Offers a variety of recreational activities, including sports courts, picnic areas, and a carousel.
  • Sustainable Design: Employs sustainable design principles to preserve and enhance the park's natural beauty.

11. The Cloisters

A museum located in Upper Manhattan that showcases medieval art and architecture.
  • Medieval Artifacts: Houses an extensive collection of medieval art and artifacts.
  • Architectural Masterpieces: Features architectural masterpieces from various European monasteries.
  • Gardens and Nature: Surrounded by beautiful gardens and a landscape that mimics medieval Europe.

12. Washington Square Park

A historic park located in Greenwich Village featuring the famous Washington Arch.
  • Historic Significance: Established in 1797, it's one of the oldest parks in Manhattan.
  • Cultural Hub: Serves as a cultural hub for events like concerts, poetry readings, and political rallies.
  • Iconic Archway: Features the Washington Arch, a replica of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

13. Governors Island

A former military installation turned park and arts center located between Manhattan and Brooklyn.
  • Urban Escape: Provides a unique urban escape with lush greenery, outdoor art installations, and beautiful views.
  • Historic Landmarks: Features historic landmarks like the Fort Jay and Castle Williams.
  • Art and Culture: Offers seasonal programming focused on art, music, and culture.

14. The Highbridge Park and Walkway

A park in Washington Heights that features a pedestrian walkway connecting Manhattan's upper neighborhoods.
  • Connectivity: Serves as an important pedestrian connection between the Upper West Side and the Bronx.
  • Historic Architecture: Includes historic architecture, such as the High Bridge and the Croton Aqueduct.
  • Urban Nature: Offers a unique blend of urban landscapes and natural greenery.

15. The Hudson River Park

A waterfront park stretching from Battery Park to 59th Street, offering views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline.
  • Waterfront Vistas: Features breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the iconic Manhattan skyline.
  • Recreational Amenities: Offers a variety of recreational activities, including sports courts, picnic areas, and bike rentals.
  • Sustainable Design: Employs sustainable design principles to preserve and enhance the park's natural beauty.