Where to Claim the Outdoors in the New York City

A bite of ‘the Big Apple’ is usually equated with the exploration of the world’s best museums, the marvellous architecture inspiring awe as well as with the hustle and vibrancy that feels like the essence of the New York City. But anyone who has spent some time in the city will tell you that the green spaces in the city define it as much as its modern offerings. If you find yourself wanting to take a break from the overwhelming city sights, you can look forward to a few peaceful hours at these top parks in the NYC.

Central Park
Featuring in most travel itineraries to the city, the Central Park comprises of lush, iconic spaces stretching over four kilometres. Walking through the many trails here, one is bound to come across several locations that have been used for filming countless movies and shows. Hours go by without notice, lounging on the lawn, boating in the lake and discovering all that the park has to offer. If you are visiting in the summer months, you can catch free concerts. Besides, several tours are organised to different areas of the park for better understanding of the ecosystem. Do book yourself on the one lead by the Central Park Conservancy.

Bryant Park
An ideal spot for tourists to catch a breath and be familiarised with the local life and culture, the Bryant Park is buzzing with activity all throughout the year. As many as 1000 free activities, events and classes are organised here on an annual basis including park tours, live concerts, boot camps, poetry recitals and juggling performances amongst others. Surrounded by imposing skyscrapers on all sides, the park is a green oasis promoting the feeling of calm and rejuvenation.

Washington Square Park
Located in the vicinity of the New York University, the Washington Square Park is where the youth of the city hangs out. It is one of the busiest parks and hosts a range of entertaining activities and events. From chess players to musicians, food vendors to families picnicking on its lush grounds, it is possible to see myriad beautiful sights at the turn of a head at the Washington Square Park. One of the major highlights of the park is the iconic arch dedicated to George Washington.

Battery Park
If you would like a little history to go with your dose of sunshine and lush garden vistas, the Battery Park is your best bet. The park used to be a fort where artillery batteries for the protection of the city were stored, giving it its name. Today, the park offers 195,000 square feet of verdant spaces to the visitors, containing antidotes for the weariness of the city life. It is also the place from where tours to several popular New York attractions begin. Several other events including bird walks, yoga, music concerts are organised here for the entertainment of visitors.

Union Square Park
Several bars and restaurants line up the periphery of the Union Square Park, making it an ideal spot for leisurely pre or post meal walks. One of the most popular meeting spots in the city, the park has beautiful and comfortable seating areas surrounded by giant trees under whose shade one can spend many hours of solitude or in the company of a friend. If you visit on the weekend, you will be able to attend the farmer’s market where the freshest produce in the city can be sampled.