Outdoor Activities in NYC Today

New York City is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. With its towering skyscrapers, endless attractions and endless nightlife, there’s something for everyone in NYC. Whether you’re looking for a culture fix, a slice of history or some outdoor adventure, New York City has it all.

The city is constantly evolving, with new restaurants, attractions and activities popping up all the time. But if there’s one thing that doesn’t change in New York City, it’s the love of the outdoors. From exploring Central Park to relaxing on the beach or kayaking in the Hudson River, the city offers plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. Here are some of the best outdoor activities NYC has to offer.

Exploring Central Park

Central Park is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park spans 843 acres and includes plenty of attractions to explore. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or an invigorating jog, join a guided tour or take a boat ride on the lake, Central Park has something for everyone.

A must-see attraction in Central Park is Belvedere Castle. Built in 1869, it stands at 79 feet high and offers stunning views of the park and the surrounding city skyline. The castle is also home to the Henry Luce Nature Observatory, which features interactive exhibits about Central Park’s wildlife and plants. Other attractions include the Central Park Zoo, the Alice in Wonderland sculpture and the Strawberry Fields memorial. There are also plenty of activities available, such as horseback riding, ice skating and bike rentals.

Hiking in the Hudson River Valley

Just outside of New York City’s boundaries lies the beautiful and historic Hudson River Valley. Spanning from Upper Manhattan upstate to Albany, this picturesque area offers plenty of trails for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon stroll or a day-long hike, there are countless routes to explore in this stunning region.

One of the most popular trails is the Hudson Highlands Trail, which winds through more than 20 miles of wooded terrain with breathtaking views of the Hudson River and its surrounding valleys. Other trails include the Croton Gorge Trail, which winds through wetlands and along rivers, and Harriman State Park, which offers more than 200 miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers.

Kayaking in the Hudson River

The Hudson River is one of New York City’s most iconic waterways. From boat tours to kayaking, there are plenty of ways to explore this majestic river. Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience the Hudson River up close, with paddles taking you through winding canals and past historic landmarks.

One of the most popular kayaking routes is from Manhattan’s Battery Park up to Governors Island. It’s a great way to take in some of the city’s most iconic sights, such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. For a more challenging route, try kayaking from Manhattan north up to Yonkers or further upriver to Croton-on-Hudson.

Relaxing at the Beach

New York City has plenty of beaches to choose from when it comes to getting away from it all. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to watch surfers hit the waves, there’s something for everyone. The most popular spots include Coney Island Beach in Brooklyn and Long Beach in Queens. Or if you’d prefer something a little quieter, head to Orchard Beach in the Bronx or Rockaway Beach in Queens.

Biking Through Brooklyn

If you want to explore Brooklyn’s bustling neighborhoods while getting some exercise, then biking is the perfect way to do it. From Williamsburg to Prospect Park, there are plenty of routes to choose from. One of the best is the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway, a 14-mile route that takes riders through many of Brooklyn’s iconic neighborhoods such as Red Hook, DUMBO and Greenpoint.

Book a Tour on Viator

If you want to explore New York City in style, then book a tour on Viator! Viator offers an array of guided tours for all types of travelers, from foodie tours to art tours and even helicopter rides. A great way to experience New York City is on a guided walking tour, which will take you through some of Manhattan’s top attractions such as Times Square and Central Park. You can also explore some of NYC’s lesser-known neighborhoods such as Greenwich Village and Harlem. With Viator’s knowledgeable guides leading your way, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience!

Book a Tour on GetYourGuide

For an even more unique NYC experience, book a tour on GetYourGuide! GetYourGuide offers everything from sightseeing tours to food tours and even kayaking trips through NYC’s waterways! One great way to explore New York City is on an architecture tour, where you can learn about some of Manhattan’s most iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building and Grand Central Station. Or hop aboard a sightseeing cruise for breathtaking views of the city skyline from the Hudson River. With GetYourGuide’s experienced guides leading your way, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!