Riverside Park

Welcome to Riverside Park, a true gem of Manhattan's Upper West Side and one of New York City's most beloved green spaces. Stretching an impressive four miles along the Hudson River, from 72nd to 158th Streets, Riverside Park offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. Designed by the renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, this historic park has been a vital part of the city's fabric since 1875, providing stunning river views, abundant recreational opportunities, and a tranquil natural environment for generations of New Yorkers. Whether you're looking for an active day out, a peaceful stroll, or a perfect spot to gather with friends and family, Riverside Park has something special for everyone.

It's more than just a park; it's a vibrant community hub where the beauty of nature meets the energy of city life. With its terraced landscapes, sylvan lawns, and groves of mature trees, it truly evokes the grandeur of the Hudson Valley right here in the city. Many locals appreciate its sprawling nature and the variety of attractions it offers, often citing its beautiful views as a major draw, no matter the season. While the parkway running alongside it is a consideration for some, the overall consensus is that Riverside Park remains an incredibly beautiful, relaxing, and energizing destination for residents and visitors alike. Its extensive lining of the Upper West Side provides plentiful views of New Jersey through the lush greenery, adding to its unique charm.

Location and Accessibility

Riverside Park is conveniently located on Manhattan's Upper West Side, stretching along the Hudson River. Its immense length makes it accessible from numerous points across the neighborhood. The main address for general reference is R25M+R3, New York, NY 10025, USA, but given its vast expanse, your exact entry point will depend on your desired destination within the park.

For those relying on public transportation, Riverside Park is easily reachable by subway and bus. The closest subway stations include the 72nd Street station on the 1/2/3 lines, providing direct access to the southern end of the park. Simply walk west on 72nd Street, cross under the tunnel, and descend the stairs to the waterfront. Further north, the 125th Street and Cathedral Parkway (110th Street) subway stations also serve the park, with the 1, D, A, B, and C lines stopping nearby. Numerous bus lines also service the perimeter of the park, including the M5, M4, M104, M60-SBS, and M11, with stops conveniently located along Riverside Drive, Broadway, and Amsterdam Avenue. These extensive public transport options ensure that residents from all corners of New York City can easily enjoy the park's offerings.

Services Offered

• Ballfields and Sports Courts: The park boasts a wide array of sports facilities, including baseball fields, basketball courts, handball courts, and tennis courts. Seasonal tennis permits are required for play between April and November, with single-play tickets available at the 96th Street Red Clay Courts.
• Playgrounds: Numerous playgrounds are scattered throughout the park, offering dedicated spaces for children of all ages to play and explore, including the Classic Playground, Neufeld (Elephant) Playground, River Run Playground, Hippo Playground, Dinosaur Playground, Claremont Dolphin Playground, and Riverbank Camel Playground.
• Dog-Friendly Areas: For our four-legged friends, Riverside Park provides several designated dog-friendly areas, ensuring that canine companions can also enjoy the park's expansive green spaces.
• Eateries and Cafes: Grab a bite or a refreshing drink at one of the park's popular eateries. Ellington in the Park, located at 105th Street, offers a restaurant overlooking the river and volleyball courts, perfect for a casual meal or a celebratory gathering. Pier I Café at 70th Street is another excellent option.
• Public Restrooms: Conveniently located public restrooms are available throughout the park for visitors' comfort.
• Wi-Fi Hot Spots: Stay connected with Wi-Fi hot spots available in certain areas of the park.
• Kayak/Canoe Launch Sites: For those looking to get out on the water, launch sites are available, particularly near 72nd Street, allowing for kayaking and canoeing on the Hudson River.
• Marinas: The 79th Street Boat Basin offers a public marina, providing slips for boats and access to the New York State's Water Trail.
• Hiking and Running Trails: An extensive network of trails winds through the park, perfect for jogging, walking, or enjoying a scenic hike. This includes the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, ideal for cyclists.
• Bird Sanctuaries: Between 116th and 124th Streets, a bird sanctuary offers a haven for over 200 species of birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
• Community Gardens: The 91st Street Community Garden is a beautiful, volunteer-tended space featuring a diverse array of perennial and annual flowers, a true testament to community involvement.

Features / Highlights

• Spectacular Hudson River Views: One of Riverside Park's most defining features is its unparalleled views of the Hudson River, offering breathtaking sunsets and glimpses of the New Jersey skyline.
• General Grant National Memorial (Grant's Tomb): Located within the park at 122nd Street and Riverside Drive, this striking monument serves as the final resting place of the 18th U.S. President, Ulysses S. Grant, and his wife, Julia Dent Grant. It's a significant historical landmark and a powerful memorial.
• Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument: This grand monument at 89th Street commemorates Union Army soldiers and sailors who served in the Civil War, adding to the park's rich historical tapestry.
• Cherry Walk: Enjoy a picturesque stroll along Cherry Walk, named for the 700 cherry trees donated to the park in 1909, which burst into beautiful blooms each spring.
• Public Art and Sculptures: The park is home to a series of statues and memorials, including the Eleanor Roosevelt Memorial at 72nd Street, offering artistic and historical points of interest.
• Hills for Sledding: During winter months, the park's varied topography provides excellent hills for children and adults to enjoy sledding.
• The Promenade: A wide, scenic promenade runs along the waterfront, perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, and taking in the panoramic views.
• Architectural Terraces: The park's unique design features terraced levels that descend towards the river, creating distinct areas for different activities and offering varied perspectives of the landscape.

Promotions or Special Offers

While Riverside Park itself doesn't offer specific "promotions" in a commercial sense, its greatest offer is the free and open access to its expansive beauty and diverse amenities for all New Yorkers. Many of the park's activities and events are free to the public, making it an accessible and valuable resource. Keep an eye on the official NYC Parks website or the Riverside Park Conservancy website for a calendar of free public programs, including fitness classes like "Summer on the Hudson," outdoor concerts, movie screenings, and educational workshops, especially during the warmer months. These free events provide fantastic opportunities for community engagement and enjoyment.

Contact Information

• Address: R25M+R3, New York, NY 10025, USA (Please note that this is a general geographic marker; the park spans a significant length of Manhattan's Upper West Side)
• Phone: (212) 870-3070
• Mobile Phone: +1 212-870-3070

Conclusion: Why Riverside Park is Suitable for Locals

For New Yorkers, Riverside Park is more than just a green space; it's an indispensable part of the city's identity and a vital resource for daily life. Its sheer size and diverse offerings make it suitable for a wide range of interests and needs. For those seeking active recreation, the multitude of sports fields, courts, and trails provides endless opportunities for exercise and friendly competition. Families find it ideal with its numerous playgrounds and open spaces for children to run and play freely. Nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in its lush greenery, enjoy birdwatching, or simply find a quiet spot to read and relax by the water.

The presence of amenities like Ellington in the Park offers convenient dining options, turning a park visit into a complete outing. The historical monuments and statues scattered throughout the park provide educational and cultural experiences, reminding us of the city's rich past. Furthermore, the strong community aspect, evident in the volunteer-run community garden and the frequent free public events, fosters a sense of belonging among residents. Despite the proximity of the parkway, the overwhelming sentiment from locals is one of deep appreciation for this extensive park that offers beautiful views, diverse attractions, and a welcoming atmosphere for all. It's a place where you can connect with nature, engage in physical activity, enjoy a meal with a view, and experience the vibrant community spirit that defines the Upper West Side. Riverside Park truly is an urban oasis perfectly suited for the rhythms and needs of New York City life.

Riverside Park

R25M+R3, New York, NY 10025, USA