Riverside Park
Riverside Park is much more than just a strip of green along the Hudson River in Manhattan: it’s an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty stretching along the Upper West Side. Known for its stunning river views, its winding paths designed by Olmsted, and its relaxed atmosphere, this park represents the more serene and picturesque side of New York City. 🌳
Located between Riverside Drive and the Hudson River, from 72nd Street to beyond 158th Street, Riverside Park is a landscape gem and an essential respite for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Whether for a peaceful stroll, playing sports, or simply enjoying the sunset over the water 🌅, its unique atmosphere makes it a memorable experience that combines nature, history, and active urban life.
Why Visit Riverside Park?
Visiting Riverside Park means connecting directly with nature and history right in Manhattan. It’s an iconic New York City landmark offering serenity, recreation, and spectacular views of the Hudson River and New Jersey. Here you’ll find tree-lined paths, historical monuments, sports facilities, and a calm that contrasts with the city’s hustle and bustle.
Its historical and landscape significance is undeniable: part of its original design belongs to Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect as Central Park. It houses significant monuments such as the General Grant National Memorial (Grant’s Tomb) and the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument. Furthermore, its size makes it an ideal green corridor for exploring the Upper West Side.
Riverside Park is also a symbol of outdoor enjoyment in New York City. While it’s a vital space for local residents, it’s also a charming destination for tourists looking to escape the pavement. With miles of paths, picnic areas, and water access, if you want to feel New York City’s connection to its natural surroundings, this is the place. 🍃
How to Get to Riverside Park by Subway?
Main Stations
Several subway stations along the 1 line (Red) offer direct or very close access to different points in Riverside Park. The most convenient ones are usually 72nd St, 79th St, 86th St, 96th St, 103rd St, 110th St, 116th St–Columbia University, 125th St, and further north, depending on the section of the park you want to visit.
Subway Lines That Take You to Riverside Park
Riverside Park is very well connected by the New York City subway, primarily via the 1 line which runs along Broadway, parallel to the park. The lines that take you directly to nearby stops are:
- 1 (Red Line): Stops directly at multiple streets along the park (72nd, 79th, 86th, 96th, 103rd, 110th, 116th, 125th…).
- A, B, C, D (Orange and Blue lines): Stop at Columbus Circle (59th St) or 125th St, requiring a walk west or a transfer to the 1 line or a bus.
How to Get to Riverside Park From:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are in the western part of Central Park or at Columbus Circle, you can walk west a few avenues to reach the park’s southern entrance (near 72nd St). Alternatively, take the 1 line northbound from 66th St or 72nd St to access points further north in the park.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or the World Trade Center, the most direct way is to take the 1 line (northbound) to any of the stops between 72nd St and 125th St, depending on the area of the park you wish to visit.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, take the A or C line towards Manhattan to 59th St–Columbus Circle and transfer to the 1 line (northbound). From Williamsburg, you can take the L line to 14th St–Union Sq and transfer to the 1 line (northbound).
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If you are coming from Long Island City or Flushing in Queens, you can take the 7 line to Times Sq–42 St and transfer to the 1 line (northbound).
Harlem
From central or east Harlem, you can take the 1 line southbound from stops like 125th St or 116th St. If you are further west in Harlem, you might be able to walk.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to Howard Beach station and transfer to the A line to 59th St–Columbus Circle, then change to the 1 line (northbound). From LaGuardia, take a bus (like the M60 SBS) to a stop on the 1 line (e.g., at 116th St) or to Astoria Blvd for the N/W and transfer if necessary. From Newark, take NJ Transit to Penn Station, and then the 1 line (northbound).
What to Do in Riverside Park?
Riverside Park is one of New York City’s most beloved green spaces, offering a perfect mix of nature, recreation, and culture along the Hudson riverbank. It offers a vast array of activities that allow you to enjoy a slower pace. Winding paths, river views, monuments, and the sounds of nature await you. 🌳🌊
Enjoy the Hudson River Views 🏞️
The panoramic views of the Hudson River are one of the park’s biggest draws. Stroll along the waterside promenade, sit on a bench to watch the boats go by, or admire the spectacular sunsets over the New Jersey Palisades. It’s a perfect spot for photography and contemplation.
Stroll and Play Sports 🏃♀️🚴♂️
Riverside Park is ideal for staying active. It features miles of paths for walking, running, and cycling (including the Hudson River Greenway). Additionally, you’ll find numerous tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball fields, dog parks, and children’s playgrounds. There are options for everyone!
Visit Historical Monuments 🏛️
The park houses important monuments. Don’t miss the imposing General Grant National Memorial (the tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant), the elegant Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument dedicated to Civil War veterans, and the statue of Eleanor Roosevelt near the 72nd Street entrance.
Relax in Nature and Green Areas 🌳
Find your peaceful corner among the park’s diverse landscapes. Enjoy the well-kept gardens, like the Garden People’s Garden at 91st Street, known from the movie ‘You’ve Got Mail’. Explore the wooded areas, relax on the grass, or have a picnic by the river. It’s also an excellent place for bird watching. 🐦
Special Events and Activities 🎉
During the warmer months, the park comes alive with the ‘Summer on the Hudson’ program, offering free concerts, outdoor movies, yoga classes, dance events, and activities for children. Check the park’s calendar so you don’t miss anything during your visit.
Attractions Near Riverside Park
Riverside Park is located in the vibrant Upper West Side neighborhood, surrounded by cultural institutions, charming shops, and other points of interest. If you decide to explore beyond the park’s paths, you’ll find a wide variety of interesting places within easy reach.
Columbia University 🎓
North of the park, near 116th Street, lies the impressive campus of Columbia University, one of the world’s most prestigious universities. You can stroll through its historic grounds and admire its neoclassical architecture.
American Museum of Natural History 🦖
Although it requires a walk east (towards Central Park West), the American Museum of Natural History is a must-visit in the area. Famous for its dinosaur halls, the Hayden Planetarium, and its vast collections, it’s ideal for all ages.
Central Park (West Side)
A few avenues east of Riverside Park lies the west side of Central Park. You can easily cross over from the Upper West Side to explore Strawberry Fields (the John Lennon memorial), The Lake, or simply enjoy another of the city’s great green lungs.
Zabar’s and Local Shops 🛍️
The Upper West Side is famous for its gourmet shops and boutiques. Don’t miss a visit to Zabar’s, a New York City delicatessen icon, or explore the independent bookstores and fashion boutiques along Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue.
Cathedral of St. John the Divine 🙏
Located in Morningside Heights, near the northern part of Riverside Park and Columbia University, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Its Gothic architecture is impressive, and it often hosts art exhibitions and concerts.
New-York Historical Society Museum & Library 📜
Located on Central Park West, near the southern entrance of Riverside Park, the New-York Historical Society offers fascinating exhibitions about the history of the city and the country. It is New York’s oldest museum and houses an important research library.
Tips for Visiting Riverside Park
Although Riverside Park is a peaceful and pleasant place, there are a few things you can keep in mind to make the most of your visit and enjoy everything this beautiful park has to offer. 👍
Best Time of Day to Go
Any time is good to visit Riverside Park, but mornings and afternoons usually offer the prettiest light and more pleasant temperatures, especially in summer. Sunsets over the Hudson River are particularly magical ✨. Weekends can be busier, especially in recreational areas.
Avoiding Crowds
Riverside Park is very large, so it’s generally easy to find quiet spaces. The most popular areas, like playgrounds, sports courts, or the main promenade, can have more people. If you’re looking for solitude, explore the less-traveled paths or the northern sections of the park. It’s usually calmer on weekdays.
Safety
Riverside Park is generally a safe area, especially during the day. As in any urban park, it’s advisable to stay in well-lit and busy areas if you visit at dusk or night. Pay attention to your belongings and follow park rules. Parks staff and sometimes police are present. 👮♂️
What to Bring and What Not To
It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes for walking 👟, as the park invites exploration. Don’t forget a water bottle 💧, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat on sunny days. If you plan to play sports, bring the appropriate gear. A picnic blanket can be useful if you want to relax on the grass. Avoid bringing unnecessary valuables.
