Fort Washington Park
A Hudson River gem offering iconic GWB views, the Little Red Lighthouse, and recreational spaces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Fort Washington Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Hudson River gem offering iconic GWB views, the Little Red Lighthouse, and recreational spaces.
"Beautiful to walk to relax, to bike, play tennis, basketball ect ect, there's a lot to do here."
🚶♀️ Walk the Hudson River Greenway
Enjoy scenic bike rides or walks along the river, connecting to other parks.
🎾 Tennis Court Reservations
Book courts in advance, especially during peak hours. Lessons are also available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Little Red Lighthouse
Under the George Washington Bridge
A historic beacon on the Hudson, offering picturesque views and a touch of maritime charm.
George Washington Bridge Views
Along the Hudson River waterfront
Marvel at the engineering feat of the GWB, especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.
Inspiration Point
Near West 190th Street
A serene spot offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Hudson River and beyond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views
Accessing This Urban Oasis
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Hudson River Greenway
Enjoy scenic bike rides or walks along the river, connecting to other parks.
🎾 Tennis Court Reservations
Book courts in advance, especially during peak hours. Lessons are also available.
📸 Capture Bridge Sunsets
The George Washington Bridge is spectacular at sunset. Bring your camera!
🧺 Picnic with a View
Pack a lunch and find a spot on the grass for a relaxing picnic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Hudson River Greenway
Enjoy scenic bike rides or walks along the river, connecting to other parks.
🎾 Tennis Court Reservations
Book courts in advance, especially during peak hours. Lessons are also available.
📸 Capture Bridge Sunsets
The George Washington Bridge is spectacular at sunset. Bring your camera!
🧺 Picnic with a View
Pack a lunch and find a spot on the grass for a relaxing picnic.
🗺️ Check for Events
Look out for community events like the Little Red Lighthouse Festival.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort Washington Park for its beautiful views of the George Washington Bridge and the Hudson River, as well as the charming Little Red Lighthouse. It's seen as a great spot for relaxation, recreation like tennis and basketball, and enjoying nature within the city. However, some find access a bit challenging due to hills and wish for more developed amenities like a proper beach.
"📍 Fort Washington Park is located directly below the New York side of the George Washington Bridge. This double-decked suspension bridge connects the Washington Heights neighborhood in Upper Manhattan to Fort Lee, New Jersey. The bridge opened in 1931 and was, at the time, the longest main suspension bridge span in the world. The Trans-Manhattan Expressway runs directly above it, serving as a critical transportation artery. ★★★★★"
Damahni Jackson
"Is beautiful to walk to relax , to bike , play tennis , basketball ect ect , there's a lot to do here , I just wish that the have canoe and kayak near but other then that beautiful"
Karla Michelle
"This is a great Park but is a bit difficult to access. It requires a lot of walking! The views of the Hudson are lovely!
Oh, and the “beach” is not much more than a small patch of sand and rocks - so much more can be done to create a beach feel in this actually great spot for it!
I look forward to going back to check out the little red lighthouse!"
S. Bech
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way is to take the A train to 190th Street and walk out of the historic subway station. Be prepared for some uphill walking to reach the park's main attractions.
Yes, you can drive to Fort Washington Park, and there is parking available. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends.
Absolutely! The Hudson River Greenway runs through the park, making it a great destination for cyclists.
Yes, some visitors note that accessing certain parts of the park, like the area around 180th Street, involves steep hills.
Many visitors enjoy walking or biking through the park to take in the views and access different areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fort Washington Park is a public park and is free to enter.
Fort Washington Park is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like tennis courts may have their own operating hours.
The Little Red Lighthouse itself is an outdoor landmark and does not require tickets to view from the outside. Special events like the Little Red Lighthouse Festival may have associated activities.
While the park is free, there might be fees associated with reserving tennis courts, especially for lessons or league play. It's best to check with the NYC Parks Department for current pricing.
The park is typically open from dawn to dusk. For safety and park regulations, it's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, biking, playing tennis and basketball, picnicking, and simply relaxing by the Hudson River.
The views of the George Washington Bridge are spectacular, especially from Inspiration Point. The Little Red Lighthouse also offers unique photo opportunities.
There's a small patch of sand and rocks that some refer to as a 'beach,' but it's not a traditional swimming beach.
Restroom facilities are available within the park, though their exact locations and condition can vary.
Yes, families can enjoy the open fields for games, picnics, and the general outdoor space.
📸 📸 Photography
The Little Red Lighthouse with the George Washington Bridge in the background is a classic shot. Inspiration Point offers panoramic river views.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for the bridge. Autumn also provides beautiful foliage for colorful shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check with park authorities if unsure.
Urban landscapes, bridge photography, nature shots (especially during fall), and candid moments are popular.
Drone usage in NYC parks is highly regulated and often requires permits. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless you have explicit permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. The park's accessibility via public transport makes it a feasible day trip destination.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack a picnic lunch to save on food costs and find a scenic spot to dine. Getting there via the A train is also an economical option.
📸 Photographers
+1 Inspiration Point provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscape, ideal for landscape photography. Best times to shoot are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting on the bridge.
+1 Autumn foliage adds vibrant colors to the scene, making it a popular spot for seasonal photography. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any park regulations. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Little Red Lighthouse
It's a popular spot for photographers and a symbol of maritime history within the urban landscape. The lighthouse is also the namesake of a children's book, adding to its charm. While you can't typically go inside the lighthouse, its exterior is a picturesque subject, especially when framed by the bridge's massive structure. The area around the lighthouse is a great place to pause, reflect, and capture some truly unique New York City views.
Keep an eye out for the annual Little Red Lighthouse Festival, usually held in early October, which brings a festive atmosphere and community engagement to the park. Pro-tip: The lighthouse is particularly photogenic during the 'golden hour' before sunset, when the light casts a warm glow on its red exterior and the surrounding bridge.
Exploring the George Washington Bridge
Visitors can walk or bike along the Hudson River Greenway to get different vantage points of the bridge. The park's elevated sections, like Inspiration Point, offer sweeping vistas that showcase the bridge's grandeur against the city skyline or the river.
+1Did you know? The Trans-Manhattan Expressway runs directly above the bridge, making it a critical piece of infrastructure. While you can't walk across the bridge from the park, its presence dominates the skyline and is a defining feature of the area.
Recreational Activities and Local Life
Many locals use the park for picnics and gatherings, especially on pleasant afternoons and evenings. The open fields provide ample space for children to play and for families to enjoy outdoor activities.
While some visitors wish for more amenities like a canoe/kayak launch or a more developed beach area, the existing facilities cater well to a variety of outdoor pursuits. Fort Washington Park is a place where the community comes together. It's common to see groups of friends and families enjoying the fresh air and the beautiful surroundings, making it a true urban oasis.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit