Discover an urban oasis in Riverside Park, sandwiched between the Hudson River and the stately buildings of Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Enjoy a peaceful respite from the city surrounding you. Although the park opened in 1875, it’s been a favorite among New Yorkers since long before that. American author Edgar Allan Poe got his inspiration for The Ravenwhile sitting atop the rocky outcropping of Mount Tom.
Take advantage of Riverside Park’s array of recreation facilities, ranging from tennis courts to soccer fields to a skate park. See boats drift in and out of the marina or rent a kayak to discover the Hudson River and its shoreline. Bike, skate or ride a scooter along the Hudson River Greenway. Stroll or run along the park’s paved pathways.
Check out the numerous monuments and statues scattered throughout Riverside Park. The final resting place of President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife is here at Grant’s Tomb. Stop by the touching Amiable Child Monument nearby, which marks the death of a small child in 1797. Admire the Eleanor Roosevelt Monument, honoring the First Lady’s many achievements. Pay your respects at the stately Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, which honors Civil War veterans from the Union’s Army and Navy.
Riverside Park is popular with birders, particularly during the fall and spring migrations. Grab your binoculars and go to the meadows and forests at the north end of the park, which have been designated the Riverside Park Bird Sanctuary. See bright yellow warblers, tweeting sparrows and even an occasional turkey or peregrine falcon. Don’t miss the Bird Drip near 120th Street, where shallow pools attract scores of thirsty and bathing birds alike.
Visit from May through October to partake in Summer on the Hudson. This cultural season brings dozens of free events to Riverside Park, including movies, concerts and other performances.
Find Riverside Park between 72nd and 158th streets along the Hudson River. Explore the 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) length of the park or simply find a serene place to sit back and relax.
