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New York City, New York / Parks and outdoors

Riverside Park

A stunning four-mile waterfront retreat on Manhattan's West Side, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, featuring historic monuments and scenic views along the Hudson River.

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What is Riverside Park known for?

Riverside Park is a four-mile waterfront park on Manhattan's West Side along the Hudson River. It is one of only eight officially designated scenic landmarks in New York City and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

What activities and facilities are available at Riverside Park?

The park offers a variety of recreational facilities, including sports courts and fields, a skate park, a 110-slip public marina at 79th Street, and a large portion of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway for bicycles.

What are the hours for Riverside Park?

Riverside Park is open all year.

Which monuments can be found in Riverside Park?

Notable monuments in the park include Grant’s Tomb, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, and the American Memorial to Six Million Jews of Europe.

Who designed Riverside Park?

The park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Riverside Park is a magnificent four-mile waterfront expanse stretching along the Hudson River from West 72nd Street to West 158th Street. Established by land condemnation in 1872, this 253.17-acre community park was designed by the legendary landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Their vision created a tranquil public retreat that has offered an escape from the city since 1875, integrating the beautifully landscaped Riverside Drive into the park's layout. As one of only eight officially designated scenic landmarks in New York City, the park is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore a wealth of recreational facilities, including a skate park, sports courts, and fields. For those interested in maritime activity, the park hosts a 110-slip public marina at 79th Street, which serves as a vital link in New York State's Water Trail. The park is equally renowned for its solemn and grand monuments. Prominent landmarks include Grant’s Tomb and the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, as well as the American Memorial to Six Million Jews of Europe. These sites transform the park from a simple recreational space into a place of deep historical reflection. Whether you are cycling along the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway or attending a summer performance of Shakespeare in Riverside Park, the area provides a unique blend of nature and culture. The park remains open year-round, ensuring that its scenic vistas and historic pathways are accessible in every season.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during the summer months to catch a performance of Shakespeare in Riverside Park.
  • Rent a bike to easily traverse the four-mile stretch via the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway.
  • Allow extra time to explore the 110-slip public marina located at 79th Street.

Nearby context

Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, Riverside Park serves as the primary green buffer between the residential neighborhoods and the Hudson River, providing a scenic alternative to the city's dense urban grid.

Sources

Evidence and links