Take advantage of the lack of crowds and tourists and head to these spots this summer:
Hudson River Park
Between the West Side Highway and Hudson River lies the Hudson River Park. This 4+ mile riverfront park includes bike lanes, piers, gardens and is chock full of beautiful landscapes and new areas to explore. Though the pathway itself can get crowded, there are enough lawns, benches and picnic tables for everyone. It’s also ideal for sunset watching. Tip: City Vineyard, Grand Banks, Frying Pan and soon-to-be-open Drift In all offer waterfront outdoor dining, or takeaway to enjoy on the lawns.
Brooklyn Bridge
File this under places that wouldn’t usually be great for socially distancing. But without the tourists, the Brooklyn Bridge is peaceful and serene. I’ve walked over several times since reopening and never passed more than two dozen people total.
High Line
The High Line is a repurposed elevated rail line built in the 1930s providing rotating artwork and sculptures, and gardens. The park is taking reservations on its site for a limited number of people in 15-minute increments. There’s no time limit and seating is available for those who want to hang out above the city. I guarantee it will be one of your most cherished city walks.
9/11 Memorial
Though the museum is closed for now, the 9/11 Memorial is open and free to the public. It’s an opportunity to reflect by the twin waterfall pools surrounded by bronze parapets that list the names of the victims of the 9/11 attacks, the 400 white oak trees and the jaw dropping Freedom Tower up close. Tip: This summer, street artists were invited to take over the nearby World Trade Center metal structures that house the building’s cooling and operating equipment. Bright vivid colors and messages of hope and love bring joy to a sometimes somber area.
Grand Central
This is the only chance I’ve had to sit and really admire the Grand Central Terminal architecture and vaulted constellation ceiling art without the crazy hustle and bustle of New Yorkers and visitors coming and going. Tip: never before has the whispering gallery emitted such a clear message.
Roosevelt Island
Located just to the right of Manhattan, Roosevelt Island is a narrow island on the East River. The northern side is its own little city and surprisingly industrial. But the southern side is a retreat from city life with a large park, gardens and beautiful Franklin D. Roosevelt memorial, the Four Freedoms State Park. Walking the perimeter Riverwalk will take just about an hour and a half. Tip: taking the Tram is half the fun and likely empty during off-hours!
Governors Island
Just minutes from Manhattan and Brooklyn, Governors Island is only accessible by a ferry with limited reservations. This means 172 acres to enjoy with less than half the usual visitors. Food trucks, parks, farms, and bikes to get to and from.
Staten Island Ferry
These free ferries are HUGE and offer a capacity of over 4,000 passengers per ride. The last two times I took the ferry there were less than 100 people on board. With incredible views of lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, New Jersey and the Statue of Liberty, it’s worth the ride alone. So if Staten Island is on your list, or even the round trip ferry ride, now is the time to go. Tip: Plan the ride back during sunset!
Gardens
Obviously Central Park is a haven of green space and gardens, but there are many other smaller privately owned estates and gardens that are now open. Two of my favorites include St. Luke in the Fields and the Jefferson Market Garden. Both have a limited capacity and mask requirement at the moment. St. Luke’s garden offers benches to sit and enjoy their hidden oasis.
Curious what NYC is like during reopening? Check out this post!
