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If you are looking for a place to lace up your sneakers and enjoy a morning run, you are in luck. Our article will cover the 10 best parks in New York City for people looking for a peaceful place to walk or run.
The bustling city of New York is both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. However, New York City has some of the most picturesque parks in the world, offering stunning views and a break from the city. Therefore, the city’s green spaces and parks make it a great place for runners who want fresh air and scenic views while exercising.
The parks provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural environment while staying fit. So, let’s dive in and explore the best parks in New York City.
The Benefits of Running
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Before discussing the best parks in New York City, let’s explore the benefits of running in the morning.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Running helps you improve your lung capacity and gets your heart pumping. It can lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve circulation. Running regularly can also strengthen your core, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Weight Loss
Running burns calories and helps you lose weight with its high level of intensity. It is an effective way to burn calories and maintain a healthy body weight. The number of calories you burn depends on your weight, speed, and distance. Running burns about 100 calories per mile on average.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Running releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, which relieve stress and anxiety. Endorphins can improve your mood and reduce stress and anxiety. Besides clearing your mind, running can also provide a sense of calm and relaxation.
10 Best Parks in New York City
Here are some of the best parks in New York City that you should not miss.
1. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in Central Park
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The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is a popular park in New York City. This 1.58-mile loop around the reservoir in Central Park is a favorite for its scenic views and peaceful vibe. It was built in 1862 and supplied drinking water for the city until 1958.
It’s a great place to run or walk any time of day due to the wide, flat trail around the reservoir. So you can get benefits of running in the morning, likewise, at night. In addition to the beautiful views of the city skyline, the surrounding park, and location make this an iconic place to run.
2. Brooklyn Bridge in Lower Manhattan
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Next on our list of best parks in New York City is Brooklyn Bridge in Lower Manhattan. It’s a waterfront park in Lower Manhattan that offers excellent views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
It’s known for its running and biking trails, which are great for exploring the park while admiring the city’s sights. The park has grassy lawns, pebble beaches, and rocky outcroppings, so you can train for various conditions.
You can also run along several piers in the park, including Pier 1, which has a 1.3-mile path alongside the harbor. In addition, Pier 6 has a turf field perfect for interval training.
Visitors can also enjoy soccer or frisbee games on the 30-acre parkland. It is an excellent trail for runners who want a scenic, running route with breathtaking views of New York City.
3. Brooklyn Prospect Park in Brooklyn
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Prospect Park is a 526-acre urban park in Brooklyn, New York City. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who also designed Central Park. You’ll find a variety of trails and paths in the park, from flat paved roads to steep hills. It also has a zoo, playgrounds, and lakes, making it a popular spot for families and runners.
The park’s main road loop of 3.35 miles is one of the most popular running routes. In addition, it gives runners a bird’s eye view of the Boathouse, Long Meadow, and Ravine. It also has a few dirt trails, which are great for trail running and offer a more natural experience. It’s a great place to work out while enjoying nature at Prospect Park in Brooklyn.
4. The High Line in Manhattan
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The High Line is an elevated park on the west side of Manhattan that extends for 1.45 miles. It was built on a former freight rail line and provides visitors with an unforgettable city view. It has various running and walking trails, including a path winding through lush gardens and a path that overlooks the Hudson River.
The High Line’s unique layout and varied terrain make it a popular running destination in Manhattan. Several sets of stairs at the park offer runners an intense workout. Additionally, the park is open from 7 am to 10 pm daily, so you can run early or late.
5. Battery Park in Manhattan
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Battery Park is a 25-acre park located at the southern tip of Manhattan. It offers visitors breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor, as well as a variety of running trails. This park has paved paths that wind through gardens and around a fountain, making it the best place to run.
The 1.3-mile loop around Battery Park’s perimeter offers views of the harbor and landmarks such as the World Trade Center. Additionally, you can enjoy stunning harbor views along the waterfront promenade, which stretches south along the Hudson River.
Battery Park is an excellent destination for runners seeking a scenic and accessible running route in Manhattan. Like Castle Clinton National Monument, you can also explore historic landmarks and attractions just after your run.
6. Flushing Meadows Corona Park
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The Flushing Meadow Corona Park is one of the largest parks in New York City, located in Queens. It was built for the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, and now it’s a popular place for running, walking, and other outdoor activities.
The park has several walking and running trails, including the Flushing Bay Promenade providing panoramic views of Manhattan. This park also has several sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a giant stainless steel globe symbolizing Queens.
7. Hudson River Park
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The Hudson River Park is a 550-acre park on Manhattan’s west side, offering a stunning view of the Hudson River. The park has several walking and running paths, including the Hudson River Greenway, a 13-mile path along the Hudson River.
There are also several piers and lawns, so there’s plenty of room to practice yoga, Tai Chi, and picnic. The park also has several gardens, an environmental education center, and a water taxi that takes you around the city.
8. Central Park
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Central Park is one of the most iconic parks in the world, covering 843 acres in Manhattan. In the mid-19th century, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux designed the park. And now, it has become a beloved destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike.
Central Park has several walking and running trails, including the Central Park Loop, which circles the park six times. The park also has several lakes, gardens, and landmarks, like the Bethesda Fountain and the Central Park Zoo.
9. Van Cortlandt Park
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Van Cortlandt Park, covering over 1,100 acres in the Bronx, is the third-largest park in New York City. The park has several miles of hiking trails, including the renowned Cross Country Trail, which has hosted many high school and college meets.
Rolling hills and scenic views make the trail challenging but rewarding for runners of all levels. Aside from the Cross Country Trail, the park has several other paved and unpaved trails for running and jogging.
Besides its abundant natural beauty, Van Cortlandt Park is the perfect place for a peaceful and refreshing run away from city life.
10. Forest Park in Queens
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It’s a hidden gem in Queens, covering over 500 acres in Woodhaven and Richmond Hill. Miles of trails and paths wind through lush forests and rolling hills, making the park a popular hiking, running, and walking spot.
There are also several athletic fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas, so it’s great for families and groups. Forest Park’s beauty and recreational activities make it a must-visit destination for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors.
FAQs
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The Takeaway
Rise and Run: Use Alarmy to Establish a Consistent Morning Routine!
Many people have a hard time waking up early in the morning. Using Alarmy, you can start your day by setting a wake-up time and sticking to it. And what better way to kick off your day than with a refreshing morning run?
You’ll feel more energized and productive throughout the day when you use Alarmy to wake up early and run. Give Alarmy a try and get benefits of running in the morning.
6 Morning Routine Ideas to Power Up
Ultimately New York City has some of the best parks in the world. Fitness enthusiasts and beginners can enjoy these parks’ trails and amenities to achieve their fitness goals. You can use Alarmy to help you wake up early and stay on track if you need extra motivation to run. What are you waiting for? Start your morning with a run in one of New York City’s amazing parks!
