Riverside Park: Exploring Nature's Oasis in NYC

One of New York City’s most beautiful waterfront landscapes, Riverside Park is a veritable oasis of the Upper West Side. It is nestled along the scenic Hudson River, making it a serene yet captivating escape from the hustle and bustle of the rest of New York City. Established in 1872, Riverside Park runs for four miles along the river, covering more than 253 acres in total; this space offers a myriad of activities and attractions for visitors. 

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect who created Central Park, Riverside Park is a marvel that both highlights the natural topography of the land and the beauty of landscaping. It has gone through many changes over the centuries, but remains one of New York City’s prime green spaces.

Just a two minute drive and a six minute walk from The Wallace, Riverside Park is the perfect outdoor destination for our guests. We’ve divided the reasons you should visit into six categories, covering everything from the park’s stunning views to the historical value of sites like Grant’s Tomb. Continue reading to learn more about the wonders and delights that await within this urban sanctuary.

1. Magnificent Views

Riverside Park boasts some of the most breathtaking vistas in the city from its prime location on the banks of the enchanting Hudson River. Take a leisurely stroll along the park's paths or find a cozy spot on the riverfront benches to soak in the calming views of the New Jersey skyline. 

As day transitions into night, witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the city's lights reflecting off the tranquil waters, creating a captivating ambiance that is simply nothing short of magical. In 1873, Olmsted himself wrote that Riverside Park “presented great advantages as a park … Its foliage was fine, and its views magnificent.”

2. Lush Greenery

Escape the concrete jungle by immersing yourself in the lush greenery of Riverside Park. Divided into three tiers (Riverside Drive, the promenade and parkland, and the waterfront esplanade), Riverside Park has a variety of greenery for visitors. 

The park's expansive lawns, shaded groves, and beautifully landscaped gardens provide an idyllic setting for picnics, yoga, frisbee, or simply relaxing with a good book. There’s even a Cherry Walk at Riverside Park, named for its grouping of 700 cherry blossom trees that were donated in 1909 by the Committee of Japanese Residents. 

Besides the fragrant blooms of the Cherry Walk and the carefully manicured hedges of the park’s gardens, there are also more wild areas to explore, such as the bird sanctuary, located between 116th and 124th streets, which was reforested in 1997. 

3. Riverside Park South

If you head further south along Riverside Park, you'll come across the aptly-named Riverside Park South, a vibrant, modern extension of the park. Here, visitors can enjoy an array of recreational activities, including basketball and volleyball courts, soccer fields, and a skate park. You can rent a bicycle and cruise along the park’s dedicated cycling paths, which, extend the length of Manhattan. You can also enjoy a refreshing drink at the Pier One Cafe while embracing the open air and admiring the beautiful sunset.

With its dynamic energy and wide range of amenities, Riverside Park South is a haven for individuals and families alike.

4. Sports and Fitness

You don’t need to go all the way to Riverside Park South to enjoy some outdoor activities, though. Riverside Park itself has you covered. Boasting nine baseball fields, five sets of basketball courts, 20 tennis courts, six soccer fields, as well as handball, volleyball, and pickleball courts, there’s something for everyone here — including kids, given the dozen or so playgrounds or “tot lots” that can be found around the park. 

Visitors can also take advantage of the park's extensive network of running paths that wind through the park's picturesque landscapes, providing a scenic backdrop for your run, jog or leisurely walk.

5. Community Gardening

For over 40 years, volunteers have been organizing and tending to a pastoral community garden in the heart of Riverside Park. Located on the park’s Serpentine Promenade, between 90th and 91st Street, this flowering plot is split into individual sections, each overseen by different volunteers. Known as the 91st Street Community Garden, this hidden gem within Riverside Park is well worth the visit for its heartwarming, romantic connotations, and the sheer beauty of its floral diversity.

6. Cultural and Historical Enrichment

Riverside Park is more than just a natural retreat; it is also a hub of cultural enrichment. The park is home to various landmarks, including the General Grant National Memorial, also known as Grant's Tomb, and the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, which commemorates Civil War veterans. Explore the park's — and the country’s — history by visiting these historical sites and paying homage to the past.

For impeccable views of the Hudson River, joyful outdoor recreation, cultural enrichment, and much more, head to Riverside Park, New York City’s oasis. Don’t miss out on luxury accommodations on the Upper West Side. Book your stay at The Wallace now!