At first glance, New York seems like a giant business hub, with hundreds of skyscrapers everywhere you look. But in reality, there are many beautiful and cozy natural spots right next to those concrete walls. When they have free time, locals come here to relax and be alone with nature. What are the most popular places for recreation, and what makes them special? Read on to find out on new-york.name.
1. Central Park
This is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. Thanks to its massive size, it’s visible even from a distance against the backdrop of Manhattan’s tall buildings. The park covers 843 acres (3.41 km²).
Central Park looks magically beautiful in every season. It has walking paths, bike lanes, artificial lakes, stone bridges, a zoo, centuries-old trees, and much more. You can also rent a boat and admire the city’s beauty from the water. In the summer, New Yorkers enjoy outdoor concerts and movie screenings, while in the winter, the skating rink is a big hit.
2. New York Botanical Garden
Locals call it the city’s eco-symbol. It’s located in the Bronx and constantly draws attention with the unique beauty of its landscapes: tropical flowers, trees, rocks, ponds, and sculptures.
Few people know that over 1 million plants grow here, some of which were brought from other countries. The garden is also a popular place for studying botany. It’s home to a School of Professional Horticulture, a library, and a conservatory.
3. Long Island
This is the largest and longest island in the 48 contiguous United States. It consists of several smaller islands, including Long Beach, Barnum, and Jones Beach. That’s why it’s a popular spot in New York for swimming and walks by the water.
Long Island attracts New Yorkers and tourists with its clean, sandy beaches, stunning views, sports areas, long walking paths, and more. Thanks to its well-developed infrastructure, everyone can find something to do and have a great time.
4. Little Island
This incredible place looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, because no one had ever seen anything like it before. Little Island is an artificial park built on the Hudson River near Manhattan’s western shore.
The park is built on pilings shaped like tulips, all at different heights, so visitors often have to walk up and down slopes. But it’s definitely worth the trip. Little Island is home to several hundred trees and flowers, which is why locals call it a botanical garden on the water.
Next to the walking areas are observation decks where you can stop and admire the incredibly beautiful views. There’s also a food court in the center of the park so everyone can grab a bite to eat.
Little Island is also a popular venue for cultural events: concerts, theater performances, workshops, and festivals. It’s a great choice for a day out with family and friends.
5. The High Line
Ten meters above the ground in the Meatpacking District and Chelsea, there’s a 1.45-mile (2.33 km) long walking path with beautiful landscaping. New Yorkers named this unusual spot the High Line.
It’s not just home to many plants, but also art installations and buildings in various architectural styles. The park also hosts outdoor performances, so be sure to bring your camera for your walk.
6. New York Aquarium
Seeing the underwater world is a true adventure and a great way to relax in a marine atmosphere. To do this, head to the New York Aquarium, which is the only one in the city. It’s also the oldest in the U.S., having opened in 1896 in Brooklyn.
Over 350 species of marine animals from around the world live in this aquarium, including calamari, penguins, and whales. They not only swim in the water but also perform acrobatic tricks. Shows take place several times a day.
7. Liberty Island
New York has many islands, but this one is considered the most popular. It’s where hundreds of tourists gather, and photoshoots, tours, and other cultural events take place. This is all because the main symbol of the U.S. is located on this island—the Statue of Liberty.
You can see it from all different angles while walking on Liberty Island. The island also offers incredibly beautiful views of New York’s cityscape and nature. Ferries to Liberty Island depart from Battery Park City and Liberty State Park.
8. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
For over 100 years, this garden has been a cozy spot of nature right next to the concrete jungle of Brooklyn. It’s divided into different landscaped areas, and each one is impressive with its collections of plants brought from other countries.
You’ll find palms, dwarf trees, flowering cherries, and countless other flowers. In any season, visitors to the garden can see a palette of different colors, ponds, greenery, and blooming plants. Some of them only grow in the pavilions. You can enjoy the beauty of nature on your own or with a guide.
9. Coney Island
Outdoor fun—that’s what Coney Island offers. It’s a popular spot for family outings where everyone can find something to enjoy. On the island, you can ride attractions, go to the water park, swim at the beach, parasail, or even enter a contest. All this and more will leave you with unforgettable memories.
10. Skaneateles Lake
New York State has many lakes, but Skaneateles is a top choice for Americans and tourists. One of the main reasons is its clear and clean water. This lake is in the top ten cleanest lakes in the U.S. There are places to relax on the shore. Here you can be alone with nature, go boating, swim, and enjoy unique landscapes far from the metropolis. The area around the lake has forests, hills, and parks with picturesque views.
11. The Bronx Zoo
Want to see some wild animals and get some fresh air? The Bronx Zoo is a great choice for a walk. It’s the largest urban zoo in the U.S., covering 265 acres (1.07 km²).
The atmosphere here is like a real tropical jungle. Many animals roam outside their enclosures, and you can see sandhill cranes, hummingbirds, pelicans, and other wild birds flying overhead. The Bronx Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals. You can feed some of them and even ride others, like elephants and camels.
12. Brooklyn Heights
This is one of the most prestigious and picturesque neighborhoods in New York City. It’s famous for its beautiful red brick architecture and scenic views. Many people come here to walk along the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge. These are popular spots for relaxing and taking photos.
13. Roosevelt Island
This is a natural paradise right in the middle of New York City. Roosevelt Island is located in the East River between Manhattan and Long Island.
Getting to this island is a little adventure in itself, as you can only get there by taking the tramway. Once you’re on the island, there’s plenty to see, including several historical landmarks and a huge park.
In the summer, visitors have picnics by the water and take walks in the fresh air. You can also participate in various activities like yoga classes, kite flying, poetry readings, and musical performances. At the same time, you’ll get to admire New York’s skyscrapers from different angles.
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