Walking in the Spring and Summer in NYC

With Spring here and Summer around the corner, it is time to enjoy some of New York’s best walks after spring cleaning your apartment. The city has a lot to offer for the explorer, and if you’re going to live here, you need to get used to walking. Home hunting and homeownership can be stressful, and you’ll need a way to take the edge off. What better way than a leisurely walk around New York’s best avenues and parks?

So here are eight “hikes” that you can access from anywhere in the city with a ride on the subway. Some of these are more leisurely than others, and some will require some serious time and commitment.

The High Line

Situated 30 feet above the city streets and stretching over 20 blocks, the High Line is one you won’t miss this spring. Located on the west side of Manhattan and built on an old train line, one of the city’s most impressive architectural feats. Check out their calendar of events to see when the next guided tour or stargazing event will be held.

Governors Island

Governor’s Island is 172 acres of pristine, car-free beauty that can be, wondered at your discretion. You’ll find a few better places for a stroll in NYC. Events are held here yearly, such as festivals or movie showings. It’s also easy to host your event there. If you have the time, consider doing some volunteer work to help keep it welcoming and beautiful for everyone.

Hudson River Greenway

You haven’t experienced the beauty of the Hudson River until you’ve taken a walk along the Hudson River Greenway. You can enjoy it starting from any point on its stretch from Lower Manhattan to Washington Heights. The best aspects of interest are Cherry Walk from 100^th to 125^th Street in Riverside Park. It’s also always great to end the walk at the iconic red lighthouse beneath the George Washington Bridge.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Named after the former first lady, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Reservoir is something everybody loves first seeing. Its running track offered some of the most picturesque views in Central Park and was only reopened in 2015 after extensive renovations. It’s popular with joggers who come for the manageable 1.5-mile track and beautiful views. If you want to escape the tourists in the southern half of Central Park, head for the great reservoir’s scenic views.

Clinton Avenue

If you’d like to take in some of Brooklyn’s architecture, don’t miss the stretch of Clinton Avenue from Atlantic to Flushing Avenue. Here you can see a virtual timeline of great Brooklyn architecture. You’ll see a wide variety of styles from the 19^th century, most of which were built between the 1870s and 80s. It was regarded as one of the wealthiest streets in Brooklyn for a time. Also, don’t miss the Lefferts-Laidlaw House on 136 Clinton Avenue, the only remaining temple-front Greek Revival home in Brooklyn.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

It may be crowded often, but you’ll struggle to find better views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. Despite its beauty, its construction was highly contested by residents who feared losing their private gardens. Regardless, it was finally dedicated in October 1950 by that titan of NYC construction, Robert Moses. It may be a short walk, but it’s not one you’ll soon forget. If you have the time, check out some of the stunning architecture on the streets of Brooklyn Heights.

Brighton Beach to Coney Island

You may get a better beach experience elsewhere, but the Coney Island Boardwalk has always been a favorite for New Yorkers who need a short escape from the streets. The best way to enjoy it is to go from Brighton Beach to Coney Island. It’s a comfortable journey from Manhattan or Brooklyn on the Q train.

Center Boulevard

If you want a leisurely walk with a bit of everything, you can’t go wrong with Center Boulevard in Long Island City. This walkway connects Hunter’s Point South to Gantry Plaza State Park and has a little something for anyone. There is lots of seating, plenty of sunshine on good days, Instagram-worthy views, and great eating spots.