The 15 best scenic drives in New Yor City
Discover the beauty of New York City's scenic drives! With winding roads and breathtaking views, NYC offers an unexpected side of natural beauty. Take a break from the bustling city life and explore the picturesque landscapes along the Hudson River or the enchanting parks in the Bronx. These scenic drives in NYC will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the city's charm.
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- 1. Shore Road Promenade Scenic Lookout
- 2. Rockefeller Lookout
- 3. Wood Chip Vantage Point
- 4. Plaza Lafayette & Riverside Lookout
- 5. Seven Lakes Drive NY
- 6. Alpine Lookout
- 7. The High Bridge
- 8. Hernshead
- 9. The Loch
- 10. Statue of Liberty Vista Point
- 11. Riverside Park
- 12. Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
- 13. The Lake Viewing Area
- 14. Lookout Hill
- 15. Prospect Park Waterfall
1. Shore Road Promenade Scenic Lookout
Perfect spot for stunning views and relaxing strolls.
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The scenic path along the water is a popular location for various outdoor activities. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, this five-mile trail offers a peaceful experience, as it is almost entirely flat and free of cars. The path is dotted with attractions, including a picturesque pier at one end and a parking lot with nearby stores at the other.
This waterfront spot is an excellent location for enjoying the maritime views and even catching a ferry. The trail, which is several miles long, draws in joggers, skaters, and strollers who come to take in the picturesque surroundings. Noteworthy sights include the majestic Verrazano bridge, the nearby island of Staten, and the massive cruise ships that frequently pass through.
The scenic path along the water is a popular location for various outdoor activities. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, this five-mile trail offers a peaceful experience, as it is almost entirely flat and free of cars. The path is dotted with attractions, including a picturesque pier at one end and a parking lot with nearby stores at the other.
This waterfront spot is an excellent location for enjoying the maritime views and even catching a ferry. The trail, which is several miles long, draws in joggers, skaters, and strollers who come to take in the picturesque surroundings. Noteworthy sights include the majestic Verrazano bridge, the nearby island of Staten, and the massive cruise ships that frequently pass through.
2. Rockefeller Lookout
A serene spot with breathtaking vistas
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Located on the Palisades Parkway's northbound lane, this stunning viewpoint offers a different vantage point of the Hudson River and the iconic Manhattan skyline. It is the first lookout for those heading north, offering a perfect opportunity to take a break and soak in the beautiful scenery.
The views predominantly feature the Bronx across the river, with the Harlem River outlet particularly striking. Here, there is a distinctive low railway bridge that requires a drawbridge to allow larger boats to pass through. Additionally, some parts of Columbia University's campus can be seen from this viewpoint. Visitors can take in the natural beauty of the Hudson River and the urban landscape of New York City in one breathtaking vista.
Located on the Palisades Parkway's northbound lane, this stunning viewpoint offers a different vantage point of the Hudson River and the iconic Manhattan skyline. It is the first lookout for those heading north, offering a perfect opportunity to take a break and soak in the beautiful scenery.
The views predominantly feature the Bronx across the river, with the Harlem River outlet particularly striking. Here, there is a distinctive low railway bridge that requires a drawbridge to allow larger boats to pass through. Additionally, some parts of Columbia University's campus can be seen from this viewpoint. Visitors can take in the natural beauty of the Hudson River and the urban landscape of New York City in one breathtaking vista.
3. Wood Chip Vantage Point
4. Plaza Lafayette & Riverside Lookout
5. Seven Lakes Drive NY
Seven Lakes Drive is an 18-mile parkway in the Hudson Valley that lies primarily within Bear Mountain and Harriman State Parks. As the name suggests, the trail passes seven lakes: Lake Sebago and Lake Kanawauke in the cities of Haverstraw and Tuxedo; Lake Skannatati and Lake Askoti in Tuxedo; Tiorati Lake in Tuxedo and Woodbury; Silver Mine Lake in Woodbury; and Queensboro Lake in Highlands. The parkway meanders around these lakes, offering beautiful views of the landscape, wildlife, and more as you drive north toward Bear Mountain.
6. Alpine Lookout
Breathtaking views from the highest point on the Palisades
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Alpine Lookout is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking stunning views of the Hudson River and surrounding cliffs. The journey to the lookout is equally as captivating, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely and picturesque drive.
This scenic drive in New Jersey is one of the best, providing a peaceful and serene experience along the parkway. Once you reach Alpine Lookout, you will be treated to awe-inspiring views that are perfect for a moment of reflection and relaxation.
Alpine Lookout is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking stunning views of the Hudson River and surrounding cliffs. The journey to the lookout is equally as captivating, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely and picturesque drive.
This scenic drive in New Jersey is one of the best, providing a peaceful and serene experience along the parkway. Once you reach Alpine Lookout, you will be treated to awe-inspiring views that are perfect for a moment of reflection and relaxation.
7. The High Bridge
New York City's oldest surviving bridge, reopened in 2015.
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The High Bridge, connecting Manhattan and Bronx, provides visitors with stunning views of the city and an opportunity to learn about historical significance. The oldest bridge in New York City, the High Bridge offers a unique perspective of the metropolis, with scenic vistas that are both awe-inspiring and educational.
Walking along the bridge's beautifully maintained brick pathways, one can take in sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the towering structures of the George Washington Bridge. Educational placards are strategically placed throughout the bridge, shedding light on its storied past and the role it has played in shaping the city's history. This makes for an enjoyable and informative outing, giving visitors a glimpse into a lesser-known part of the city.
The High Bridge, connecting Manhattan and Bronx, provides visitors with stunning views of the city and an opportunity to learn about historical significance. The oldest bridge in New York City, the High Bridge offers a unique perspective of the metropolis, with scenic vistas that are both awe-inspiring and educational.
Walking along the bridge's beautifully maintained brick pathways, one can take in sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the towering structures of the George Washington Bridge. Educational placards are strategically placed throughout the bridge, shedding light on its storied past and the role it has played in shaping the city's history. This makes for an enjoyable and informative outing, giving visitors a glimpse into a lesser-known part of the city.
8. Hernshead
A tranquil escape in the heart of New York City
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Hernshead, a prominent rock formation situated on the western side of the lake, is a frequented location for recreation and exploration. The outcrop offers breathtaking panoramas of the Ramble, the Lake, and the City's skyline to the south.
A visit to Hernshead promises a memorable experience for both tourists and locals. This scenic location offers a tranquil retreat from the busy city life, providing an opportunity for visitors to relax and rejuvenate in a stunning natural setting.
Hernshead, a prominent rock formation situated on the western side of the lake, is a frequented location for recreation and exploration. The outcrop offers breathtaking panoramas of the Ramble, the Lake, and the City's skyline to the south.
A visit to Hernshead promises a memorable experience for both tourists and locals. This scenic location offers a tranquil retreat from the busy city life, providing an opportunity for visitors to relax and rejuvenate in a stunning natural setting.
9. The Loch
A tranquil escape with beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery
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The Loch in Central Park, also known as the lake, flows underneath the Glen Span Arch and Huddlestone Arch, offering a chance to enjoy both natural scenery and the park's architectural features. The waterway also includes three stunning cascades, created by the park's dams.
Visitors can stroll along paths on either side of the Loch, taking in views of the water and stopping at various spots along the edge. The area is surrounded by tall trees that create a serene and tranquil environment, effectively drowning out the sounds of the city. The soothing sounds of the Loch's waterfalls further enhance the peaceful atmosphere.
The Loch in Central Park, also known as the lake, flows underneath the Glen Span Arch and Huddlestone Arch, offering a chance to enjoy both natural scenery and the park's architectural features. The waterway also includes three stunning cascades, created by the park's dams.
Visitors can stroll along paths on either side of the Loch, taking in views of the water and stopping at various spots along the edge. The area is surrounded by tall trees that create a serene and tranquil environment, effectively drowning out the sounds of the city. The soothing sounds of the Loch's waterfalls further enhance the peaceful atmosphere.
10. Statue of Liberty Vista Point
Iconic views of Lady Liberty from a peaceful park spot.
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Visitors to the Statue of Liberty Vista Point can enjoy breathtaking views of the New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, Brooklyn, the Verrazano Bridge, and more. This location within the park features benches, making it an ideal place to rest and take in the scenic surroundings.
Another excellent spot to view the Statue of Liberty is at the southern tip of Manhattan in Battery Park. The picturesque drive through the park offers uninterrupted views of the New York Harbor, including the iconic statue. Whether you choose the Statue of Liberty Vista Point or Battery Park, both locations provide stunning views of this famous landmark.
Visitors to the Statue of Liberty Vista Point can enjoy breathtaking views of the New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, Brooklyn, the Verrazano Bridge, and more. This location within the park features benches, making it an ideal place to rest and take in the scenic surroundings.
Another excellent spot to view the Statue of Liberty is at the southern tip of Manhattan in Battery Park. The picturesque drive through the park offers uninterrupted views of the New York Harbor, including the iconic statue. Whether you choose the Statue of Liberty Vista Point or Battery Park, both locations provide stunning views of this famous landmark.
11. Riverside Park
Manhattan's most spectacular waterfront park
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Riverside Park, situated in Manhattan, offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River, making it an ideal location for a leisurely scenic drive. The park boasts of sloping lawns and stately trees that add to its charm and make it one of the city's most spectacular waterfront parks.
Furthermore, from 72nd Street north, the park is a landmark known for its picturesque views that vary from distinguished buildings and statues to playgrounds and passing riverboats. This stretch of the park is particularly popular among tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the serene atmosphere, take in the stunning vistas, and engage in various outdoor activities.
Riverside Park, situated in Manhattan, offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River, making it an ideal location for a leisurely scenic drive. The park boasts of sloping lawns and stately trees that add to its charm and make it one of the city's most spectacular waterfront parks.
Furthermore, from 72nd Street north, the park is a landmark known for its picturesque views that vary from distinguished buildings and statues to playgrounds and passing riverboats. This stretch of the park is particularly popular among tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the serene atmosphere, take in the stunning vistas, and engage in various outdoor activities.
12. Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
A scenic escape with nature's best vistas and adventures
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Exploring New York's Upper Delaware Scenic Byway offers a chance to experience quaint river towns, fascinating historical sites, and stunning natural beauty. The byway, which follows the Delaware River, provides drivers with breathtaking views of cliffs, vistas, and wildlife. In addition to the natural scenery, the route also features a number of unique and historic sites.
Visitors can explore rare architectural churches, investigate the haunted Burn Brae Mansion, and admire the unique bridges of Sullivan County. The byway's river towns, such as Narrowsburg and Hancock, offer a variety of charming shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its combination of natural and historical attractions, the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is a must-see destination for anyone visiting New York.
Exploring New York's Upper Delaware Scenic Byway offers a chance to experience quaint river towns, fascinating historical sites, and stunning natural beauty. The byway, which follows the Delaware River, provides drivers with breathtaking views of cliffs, vistas, and wildlife. In addition to the natural scenery, the route also features a number of unique and historic sites.
Visitors can explore rare architectural churches, investigate the haunted Burn Brae Mansion, and admire the unique bridges of Sullivan County. The byway's river towns, such as Narrowsburg and Hancock, offer a variety of charming shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its combination of natural and historical attractions, the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is a must-see destination for anyone visiting New York.
13. The Lake Viewing Area
14. Lookout Hill
A serene escape with nature's beauty in Brooklyn.
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The trail offers scenic views that are obscured by trees during warmer months. However, once the trees are bare in the colder months, one can see all the way to Coney Island. It's a wonderful hiking experience that makes you feel like you have left the city behind.
The trail is equally beautiful, with friendly people and an abundance of birds. Hiking here is a great way to connect with nature and forget about the hustle and bustle of urban life. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk or a more strenuous hike. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to get some fresh air, this trail is definitely worth a visit.
The trail offers scenic views that are obscured by trees during warmer months. However, once the trees are bare in the colder months, one can see all the way to Coney Island. It's a wonderful hiking experience that makes you feel like you have left the city behind.
The trail is equally beautiful, with friendly people and an abundance of birds. Hiking here is a great way to connect with nature and forget about the hustle and bustle of urban life. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk or a more strenuous hike. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to get some fresh air, this trail is definitely worth a visit.
15. Prospect Park Waterfall
