NYC Parks
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 in Central Park or other NYC parks.
Central Park
Lush meadows. Enchanting footbridges. Tranquil ponds. Cast Iron lamps. Picturesque from nearly any angle, New York City’s most iconic urban sanctuary is a must-visit for jogging, picnics, or a simple leisurely stroll. Though its ambience is always magical, Central Park imparts an especially mesmerizing experience as the seasons change.
North to South from 110th Street to 59th Street / West to East from Central Park West to 5th Avenue
http://www.centralparknyc.org/
Distance from hotel: 0.6 miles
FDR Running Path (East River Promenade)
Feeling restless? Throw on your running shoes and head to this well-maintained riverside running path beloved by locals. Run alongside the FDR Highway towards the 1.5 mile stretch of greenery at East River Park, while enjoying a view of the East River and Brooklyn. In the morning you may see park goers fishing in the river or enjoying some of the many park amenities.
FDR Drive from E 125th St to E 60th and Battery Park to E 34th Street
Distance from hotel: 0.7 miles
East River Esplanade Dog Run
This large fenced-in park is one of the few places in the Upper East Side where you can let your furry friends enjoy some off-leash playtime. The park itself is located just north of the Queensborough Bridge on John Finley Walk, and has ample space for your pooch to get a workout in. The area is on elevated ground and offers decent views of the Brooklyn waterfront.
E 60th St and FDR Dr, New York, NY 10022
212.639.9675
https://www.yelp.com/biz/east-river-esplanade-dog-run-aka-andrew-haswell-green-dog-run-new-york
Distance from hotel: 0.6 miles
92nd Street Y
92nd Street Y is a world-class cultural and community center where people all over the world connect through culture, arts, entertainment and conversation. Events at 92Y range from literary readings, concerts, lectures, single mixers, family events, film screenings and many more. Guests of Gardens NYC are welcome to 15% off events at 92Y by using code GARDENS15.
1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128
212.415.5500
https://www.92y.org/
Distance from hotel: 2.0 miles
St. Catherine’s Park
Since its renovation in 1996, this block-long park has served as a hub for neighborhood recreation what with a running track, tennis wall, handball courts, and a basketball court. The park takes its design from the Santa Maria sopra Minerva church in Rome, which houses the remains of the real St. Catherine. According to the NYC parks website, “A flagpole represents the altar, play areas are the pews, and even the elephant sprinklers are an adaptation of a sculpture that resides in front of the Roman church.”
1245 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065
https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/st-catherines-park
Distance from hotel: 0.4 miles
