5 Hidden Parks to Explore Away from the Tourist Rush for Real New Yorkers

① Quiet and Scenic Spots

Known as the city of dreams, New York is a metropolis with bustling streets, towering high-rise buildings, and Broadway shows that shine with creativity. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States, boasting iconic landmarks and vibrant attractions.

However, aside from these glamorous spots, New York has many hidden gems. These are some of the less crowded but scenic spots in New York.

Pebble Beach is located within Brooklyn Bridge Park, with a fascinating history. It is a rocky shoreline along the East River. This place, which is not a typical beach, attracts tourists looking for picturesque landscapes. It’s a great place to enjoy a walk while taking in the unobstructed views of the East River and the Manhattan skyline.

• Address: 65 Plymouth St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
• Operating hours: Not applicable
• Admission fee: Free

Carl Schurz Park is a place that cannot be missed when discussing the beautiful scenery and well-preserved spots in New York. It is a 14.9-acre park in Manhattan’s Yorkville, boasting beautiful greenery and fantastic views. You can enjoy a basketball court, playground for children, dog running ground, Gracie Mansion, and a stunning view of the East River.

Everywhere is clean and well-maintained, making it a perfect place to visit with friends and family. Just looking at the tranquil sea view and enjoying the beautiful landscaping can make for a relaxing time.
Especially in Carl Schurz Park, you can often see people walking with their pets.

• Address: East 86th Street & East End Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States
• Hours: 6 a.m. – 12 a.m.
• Admission fee: Free

② Hidden New York Park Destinations

Greenacre Park is a small, urban park nestled between two buildings on a quiet street. The 25-foot high waterfall is the park’s centerpiece, adorned with colorful and seasonal flowers and lush green lawns.

The park, with its various layers and seating spaces, gives the illusion of being less crowded, making it a great place to read a book or listen to good music.

• Address: 217 E 51st St, New York, NY 10022, United States
• Hours: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Admission fee: Free

Liberty Park is a place that exudes a peaceful atmosphere. Opened in June 2016, this elevated park is a great place to relax amidst the dense buildings. It is an urban park with beautiful plants and flowers.

Visitors can look down on the World Trade Center campus, and the America’s Response Monument is also located in the park.

• Address: 155 Cedar St, New York, NY 10006, United States
• Hours: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
• Admission fee: Free

③ Places to Enjoy Nature

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is located at the southeastern tip of Queens. It’s one of the eco-friendly destinations you can visit in New York.

It attracts environmentally conscious people who seek a peaceful atmosphere focused on wildlife conservation and environmental education. Here, you can go bird watching, observe wildlife, hike on scenic trails, and volunteer for natural resource conservation. It’s a hidden spot in New York that many tourists don’t know about.

• Address: 175-10 Cross Bay Blvd, Queens, NY 11693, United States
• Hours: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Admission fee: Free