
Manhattan Waterfront Greenway
A 32-mile scenic path along Manhattan's waterfront, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying sunset views over the Hudson River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets

Manhattan Waterfront Greenway
Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 32-mile scenic path along Manhattan's waterfront, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying sunset views over the Hudson River.
"A fantastic greenway all the way from Lower Manhattan to Harlem. Phenomenal views of Manhattan’s west side and across the water to Jersey."

🚶♀️ Respect Shared Paths
Be mindful of runners and cyclists; stick to designated lanes to avoid conflicts.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Head west for stunning, free sunset views over the Hudson River.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hudson River Sunset Views
Western sections of the Greenway
Witness the sky ablaze with color over the Hudson River, a truly magical and free NYC experience.

East Midtown Greenway
East River Esplanade
Newly opened, this section offers safe cycling and walking with relaxing waterfront spaces.

Staple Street Skybridge
Near Pier 40
A historic, recently restored skybridge offering unique architectural views and a glimpse into NYC's past.

Baylander Steel Beach
Hudson River Greenway, New York, NY 10027
A summer gem with great vibes and views, perfect for an evening out with happy hour specials.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Greenway
Sunset Spectacles & Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Respect Shared Paths
Be mindful of runners and cyclists; stick to designated lanes to avoid conflicts.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Head west for stunning, free sunset views over the Hudson River.
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals Available
Explore the full length of the greenway with convenient bike rentals.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Grab food nearby and enjoy a picnic with scenic river views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Respect Shared Paths
Be mindful of runners and cyclists; stick to designated lanes to avoid conflicts.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Head west for stunning, free sunset views over the Hudson River.
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals Available
Explore the full length of the greenway with convenient bike rentals.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Grab food nearby and enjoy a picnic with scenic river views.
🚻 Restrooms Onsite
Convenient restrooms are available along the path for your comfort.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway for its stunning river views, excellent paths for biking and running, and its role as a serene escape within the city. While generally well-maintained, some note that shared paths can become crowded, requiring awareness from all users.
"On my bike it was a great ride. I do it a lot nice and clean. You just have to watch out for the pedestrian crossings other than that. Enjoy yourself."
Stephen McBride
"A lush greenery-lined walkway that spans the upper west side directly on the water.
There’s basically four lanes of traffic with bidirectional bikes and walkers/runners, so it can be a bit crowded at the busier hours."
Matt B
"Surprisingly serene cycling and walking area along the Hudson River and Upper Westside of Manhattan ... The pathways are flat and in relatively good condition - there are restrooms & a few great Riverside cafes nearby ... Well worth a wander or picnic if you have an hour or two to spare 👌"
Michael Hickey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Greenway is accessible from numerous points along Manhattan's west side, from Battery Park in the south to Harlem River in the north. Subway lines like the 1, 2, 3, A, C, E, and 7 offer access to various sections.
Parking can be challenging in Manhattan. While some areas might have street parking, it's often limited. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services for easier access.
Yes, you can access parts of the Greenway from New Jersey via ferry services that dock at various piers along the Hudson River.
Biking is the most efficient way to cover the 32-mile stretch. You can rent bikes or use Citi Bike. For a more relaxed experience, walking or running is also popular.
The East Midtown Greenway can be accessed via the 54th Street Bridge, connecting to 60th Street and Andrew Haswell Green Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway is completely free to access and enjoy. It's a public park space.
The Greenway is generally open 24/7, though specific park areas or facilities like restrooms might have limited hours. For example, Baylander Steel Beach has specific operating hours.
No advance booking is required for general access to the Greenway. It's an open public space.
Yes, various events and tours are sometimes held along the Greenway. Keep an eye on local event listings or park announcements.
Yes, the East Midtown Greenway and Andrew Haswell Green Park are open year-round, offering a waterfront escape in all seasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The pathways are generally flat and in good condition, ideal for cycling and walking. However, some sections might experience wear and tear.
It can get crowded, especially during peak hours on weekends and evenings. Sharing the path with cyclists, runners, and pedestrians requires awareness.
Yes, restrooms are available at various points along the Greenway, offering convenience for visitors.
You'll enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River, the Manhattan skyline, and across to New Jersey. Sunsets are particularly spectacular.
Yes, there are benches and green spaces perfect for resting or having a picnic. Many spots offer beautiful waterfront views.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for iconic landmarks like the Staple Street Skybridge, the Statue of Liberty in the distance, and the dramatic city skyline, especially during sunset.
Absolutely! The western exposure provides incredible opportunities for sunset shots over the Hudson River, with vibrant colors reflecting off the water and buildings.
Many visitors capture urban landscapes, cityscapes, waterfront scenes, and candid shots of people enjoying the greenway.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be mindful of private property and avoid intrusive photography of individuals without consent.
The 'golden hour' before sunset offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Early mornings can also provide softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a unique experience, check out events or activities that might be happening along the greenway, or simply enjoy the simple pleasure of a bike ride or a walk with the family, taking in the sights and sounds of New York City from a different perspective.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
While it's a shared path, many runners appreciate the dedicated lanes in certain sections. Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians, and consider running during off-peak hours for a less crowded experience. The views of the Hudson River and the city skyline provide a motivating backdrop for your workout.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different times of day to capture various moods – the soft light of early morning, the vibrant energy of midday, or the breathtaking colors of sunset. Remember to be respectful of others and the environment while you capture the essence of this iconic New York City pathway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Greenway
Key sections like the East Midtown Greenway provide new, safe routes for cycling, extending the network and offering fresh perspectives of the city. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a more vigorous workout, the Greenway accommodates all levels of cyclists, with flat terrain and stunning views as your constant companion.
Running and Walking
It's important to note that the Greenway is a shared space. While there are dedicated bike lanes in some sections, runners and walkers often share paths with cyclists. Be courteous and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busier areas like near Chelsea Piers. The presence of restrooms and occasional cafes along the route makes it convenient for longer excursions.
Sunset Viewing Spots
Popular spots for sunset viewing include areas near Pier 40, Chelsea Piers, and the newly opened sections of the East Midtown Greenway. Grab a spot on a bench, find a comfortable place to sit, or even enjoy a picnic as you witness this daily natural wonder. The reflections on the water and the silhouettes of the buildings create a truly magical atmosphere, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the moment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit