Great outdoor places are in high demand and short supply in the world’s biggest and richest cities. New York is no exception. Luckily though, there are still a number of parks and open spaces you can visit on a sunny day that will relax you and even perhaps inspire you. So if you’re planning to visit New York, and you like a taste of nature in the city, make time to visit these 5 incredible green spaces in the heart of the Big Apple.
Central Park
Central Park is probably the most famous park in the world, located right in the centre of Manhattan. No trip to New York would be complete without visiting the sculpted paradise designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Whether it’s the views outwards, through the oak trees towards the Plaza hotel, the famous lagoon or simply strolling through the tree-lined walkways, Central Park may be the nearest thing to paradise in any city.
Bronx Park
Bronx Park is 718 acres of bliss, laid out along the Bronx River. With picturesque waterfalls, it’s great to visit all year round, although the New York Botanical Garden is particularly stunning in the summertime.
Flushing Meadows
Flushing Meadows in the Queens district is home to the arena of the same name which hosts the US Open tennis. Its most iconic feature is the Unisphere (pictured), a huge metallic globe sculpture originally commissioned for the 1964 World’s Fair.
Prospect Park
Prospect Park in Brooklyn is an expanse of lush city parkland. The viewing point of Mount Prospect, the second highest point in Brooklyn, offers sweeping views of Manhattan, Staten Island, Brooklyn and even New Jersey.
Fort Greene Park
Fort Greene Park is a charming neighbourhood park in the heart of Brooklyn, which hosts summer literary festivals and assorted gatherings.