Spring is officially in the air, making it the perfect time to get outside and enjoy one of NYC's gorgeous public parks. Here's our list of the best parks to visit in NYC.
See also: The 7 Best Hikes Near NYC
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Escape the city's hustle and bustle at this iconic location. The High Line is a haven elevated above the crowds where you can take in a magical sunset while sitting beside the historic freight rail line. Gansevoort St. to 30th St.
INSIDER TIP: Make sure to visit after dark on Tuesday nights from April through October for stargazing at the High Line. Visitors are provided telescopes, free of charge. Stargazing begins 30 minutes before park closure.
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Right on the water, the Battery is one of the most peaceful parks in Manhattan's downtown Financial District. Take a leisurely stroll, soak in the sunshine and feel the cool breeze on your face. Plus, there's a ton of space to set up a picnic and enjoy the day. State Street and Battery Place
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Madison Square Park is a friendly spot marking the transition between downtown and midtown Manhattan. Sandwiched between Broadway, Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue, this hangout offers plenty of greenery and a couple of restaurants, in case you want to grab some snacks. We also like the statues, which remind us of New York's rich history. 11 Madison Ave.
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This park offers endless entertainment options, including a bikeway, waterside promenade, picnic terraces and a 30-foot-tall cantilevered platform to marvel at the city's waterfront sunset. Hunter's Point South Park is perfect for family outings, a cinematic run, or a romantic rendezvous. Center Blvd. between 50 Ave. and Second St.
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Famous for good reason, Central Park consists of 843 acres of land in the middle of Manhattan, including gorgeous features such as woodlands, lakes, streams, lawns and more. We highly recommend visiting some of its most iconic attractions, such as Bethesda Fountain, the Central Park Zoo and the Central Park Boathouse. 59th Street to 110th Street, and 5th Avenue to Central Park West
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Take a breath of fresh air while overlooking Queens from this popular park. Watch as boats drift along the East River while the sun sets beyond Randall's Island. 19th Street, between Astoria Park S. and Ditmars Blvd.
INSIDER TIP: Settle near Hell Gate Bridge for picturesque views.
As the name suggests, Sunset Park is known for its impressive vista of Manhattan's urban skyline. This hidden treasure bears the name of its intimate Brooklyn neighborhood, offering views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn's intimate neighborhoods, Staten Island and New Jersey's greenery. 41st St. & 44th St., between Fifth Ave. and Seventh Ave.
Photography by: Paul Porter/BFA.com
