Image: The High Line
It’s hard to beat a panoramic view of the greatest city in the world: New York. Any Manhattan rooftop will display the iconic skyline, but some views are undoubtedly better than others. And beyond the skyline, New York is home to outdoor landscapes unlike any other. Tourists and locals alike are drawn to Lower Manhattan specifically, for its diverse array of outdoor hang outs.
A beautiful, sunny day in the great city of New York is a prize in itself. But a beautiful, sunny day with a view of the Hudson or the Empire State Building? That’s the icing on the cake. And with this glorious list, you can have your cake and eat it too.
1. The High Line. What was once a mile-long train track used for freight transportation is now a historical park with unparalleled views of the city. An illuminated backdrop of New York’s skyscrapers will brighten up even the darkest of days. With such a tranquil atmosphere, it is no wonder this outdoor location is an NYC hot spot. The park is home to numerous activities, like free guided walking tours every Tuesday, dance nights, star gazing, and even special events just for your little ones. And after a beautiful day spent at a place that makes you feel on top of the world, travel back down to the ground and dance the night away at The High Line Ballroom nightclub, or peruse the vast array of restaurants below. Your time spent at The High Line will be worth every minute. Gansevoort Street.
Image: Joseph Amella Jr.
2. Laduree. Revel in a French pastry crafted by one of New York’s finest Parisian pastry artisans. Laduree’s new location in SoHo features an enchanting garden with a backyard terrace ornamented with cherry trees. For a moment, it may feel like you’ve been whisked away to France on a summer’s day. Be sure to spend more than just a New York minute in this gorgeous location. 398 W Broadway.
Image: Tribeca Rooftop
3. Tribeca Rooftop. If ever you find yourself in need of a venue to host a memorable event, look no further. The Tribeca Rooftop, located 12 stories above cobblestone roads, boasts panoramic views of the Hudson River, the Empire State Building, and SoHo. You will certainly wow guests attending your wedding, gala, or private dinner in this truly magnificent penthouse. The space costs a pretty penny, but the view? Priceless. 355 W 16th St.
Image credit: Hudson River Park
4. Hudson River Park. On a brilliantly beautiful day, there’s no better way to celebrate New York than to venture along the city’s famous Hudson River. The greenery of the Hudson River Park is a perfect palace to lie down on and read a classic American novel or to watch a blockbuster hit on their big screen under the stars during their RiverFlicks Big Hit Wednesdays. And for the fitness savvy, experience the park’s wide variety of free activities like Yogamaya on Wednesdays and ‘Shape Up Sundays.’ Additionally, the water awaits the adventurous and the eager, a perfect spot to sail, swim, row, or kayak. For an everlasting memory of The Big Apple, this is the spot to start.
Image: The Battery Conservancy
5. The Battery Conservancy. Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, The Battery Conservancy is 25 acres of historical sites and postcard-worthy views. Before the greatest city on earth was born, or the Statue of Liberty was even a thought, New York was New Amsterdam, welcoming immigrants from all over the world to what is now the concrete jungle of dreams. In this park, guests can watch outdoor classical theater, or register to pick their own vegetables at the Battery Urban Farm. Activities range from season to season, but you can be sure that there is always something to do and something to see. With picturesque views of the Lady Liberty and the Hudson, this park is a major Manhattan staple. 1 New York Plaza.
Image: Southstreet Seaport
6. Southstreet Seaport. Southstreet Seaport is the perfect place for a family-friendly outing. With events lined up for the entire week, it’s never a bad day to head to the Seaport. Activities range from magic shows on Mondays to outdoor cinema nights on Wednesday and Saturday, not to mention the wide variety of stores and boutiques to browse. Additionally, there is an urban farmer’s market on Thursdays and concerts on Fridays. So whether you are at the Seaport on a sunny Sunday or on an illuminated Friday night, you will definitely want to come back. 199 Water Street.
-Erum Salam
