New York is undoubtedly a city of hustle, bustle, loud colors, and constant movement. Even for the most seasoned New Yorkers, the city can sometimes prove itself a chore, but luckily, for travelers and natives alike, there are places to relax within “The Big Apple.”
Carry on reading to find out what they are and how you can find a little peace in “The City That Never Sleeps.”
Public Parks
Breaking up the several skyscrapers, shops, bars, and theatres scattered across New York are plenty of parks open to the general public, providing a safe space away from the hustle and bustle of city life. More than 1,700, in fact! And it is fair to say they are much needed considering how hectic life can be within the centre of the city.
Some of the most notable include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Central Park: The single most famous park in NYC and maybe in the world, Central Park is massive, encompassing 3.41km² of land. Its fame over the years has come in the form of its numerous attractions, including its natural landscapes and gorgeous bridges.
- High Line: A relatively new feature in New York, opening in 1999, the High Line is built upon areas where trains used to run. Now, the park is a 1.45-mile-long greenway placed within the midst of the city’s infrastructure.
- Brooklyn Bridge: Located on the waterfront, Brooklyn Bridge Park is filled with places for plenty of sports and other recreational activities, with its playgrounds, basketball courts, and sports fields.
- Staten Island Greenbelt: Beautiful streams, a golf course, and plenty of nature, all of the above and more are present within the Staten Island Greenbelt.
Public parks are plentiful in New York; whether you are at ease with the busyness of the city or not, it is worth taking some time out of your day to visit them and take in the sights.
Art Galleries and Museums
As a result of the diverse culture ever present within the city, New York has developed and collected a rich collection of art galleries and museums. There are plenty scattered across the entirety of the metropolis, offering pieces that cater to every taste and eye.
Chelsea, in particular, is filled with art galleries, with almost 300 art galleries across the area; you’ll also find some great museums in Brooklyn and the Upper West Side, including but not limited to Coney Island Museum and The New York Transit Museum.
Final Thoughts
Though it is notorious for its rowdiness and metropolis life, there are plenty of places in which you can rest across the whole of New York. So don’t be put off visiting this great city just because you’re not the biggest fan of crowds! The city is incredibly diverse and caters to tourists and natives of all shapes and sizes.
New Orleans is another culturally diverse city that offers plenty to see and do. Click here for some advice on what to do, see and eat if you plan on visiting.