Hi-ho, Hi-ho, it’s Off to the High Line We Go!
Now that it’s finally feeling like summer in New York, what better way to celebrate than by spending a day soaking up some sun in one of the most unique parks in the city? Add the High Line to your Big Apple bucket list.
The High Line wasn’t always the vibrant public space that it is today. The original railroad — whose abandoned tracks now constitute the backbone of the High Line — was built as part of the West Side Improvement Project and was first opened to trains in 1934.
The route connected directly to factories and warehouses in Manhattan so that trains could easily unload cargo without disturbing traffic. However, as the popularity of interstate trucking increased, rail use came to a lull, with the last train traveling the railroad in 1980.
In 1999 a nonprofit organization called Friends of the Highline came together to repurpose the former railway as the public space we know and love today. Inspired by the Promenade plantée (tree-lined walkway) in Paris, the High Line spans 1.45 miles along the Hudson River, from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street, and serves as a serene and picturesque escape from the chaotic streets of Manhattan.
Sights to See
As we ascended the steel stairwell to the elevated rail, we were immediately awestruck by the view. As we walked along, we couldn’t help but stop every few minutes just to marvel at (and Instagram) our surroundings.
From the Hudson River to the Jersey skyline to the Empire State Building, the High Line’s views won’t just take your breath away — they’ll help you appreciate the city from a whole new perspective. And with all of the benches, lounge chairs, and grassy areas along the entire length of the elevated pathway, there’s plenty of space to kick off your shoes, soak up some rays and indulge in some of the best people-watching the city has to offer.
Getting Cultured
The views aren’t the only thing to admire as you walk the High Line — the park is also populated with a number of beautiful public art pieces. With a continuous rotation of exhibitions, performances and video programs, the High Line is not just a park; it’s also a vibrant extension of NYC’s rich museum culture.
Noms
A trip to the High Line isn’t complete without a stop at the famous Melt Bakery stand for some decadent ice cream sandwiches. These treats made for a perfect, refreshing ending to our Friday afternoon adventure. Just look how happy we are.
And if ice cream sandwiches aren’t your cup of tea, the High Line offers plenty of other delicious eats to indulge your tastebuds, including Blue Bottle Coffee, La Sonrisa and the park’s first sit-down restaurant, Santina.
The park is open from 7am-11pm during the summer months and offers a variety of cultural events and activities, from Tai Chi to stargazing. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly Saturday afternoon or a romantic spot for date night, the High Line has something for everyone.
