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Beyond Central Park: three not so obvious parks to visit in New York City

Whatever the time of year you choose to visit New York City – spring, summer, fall, or winter – exploring a park is a must-do. Central Park and Bryant Park are the choices of 99% of tourists who visit the city. But the green space of New York is not limited to these two famous spots. The city has more than 1,700 parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities in the five major neighborhoods. Today, I share three city parks that deserve your attention – mostly because of the incredible views that they provide!

Carl Schurz Park is located in the Upper East Side and is one of my favorite places in the city, located along the East River – above the FDR drive – between 84th St and 90th St at East End Av. It is not a huge park but it features a lot of facilities, like a playground for kids, a basketball court and even two dog run places. Not to mention, of course, the vast green space – where you can have a picnic or simply enjoy the view and relax. The great treasure of Carl Schurz Park is the view of the East River. As I mentioned, it stands on top of the FDR, the highway that passes by the river, so the park is on a higher level, and its undulations give a fantastic look! In addition, you can catch a sight of Randalls Island, Roosevelt Island, and Queensboro Bridge. Carl Schurz Park is a very local spot – you will see families, runners and a lot of dogs!

To get there, use the Q line, get off at 86th St and walk towards East.

Domino Park – this park was open last month. The six-acre, privately-funded park, designed by the lead designers of the High Line, is part of Two Trees’ redevelopment of the former Domino Sugar Factory site into a mixed-use office and residential community in Williamsburg. The park is located on the banks of the East River in Williamsburg, a cool Brooklyn neighborhood. The name is a tribute to the old Domino Sugar Factory, a former sugar refinery. Today, the old building adds some contrast with the modern structure of the park. Also, the Sweetwater Playground will transport youngsters back to the sugar industry by way of slides, conveyor belts, tunnels, and other exciting amenities. In addition to the playground, the structure of the park has a beach volleyball court, plenty of space to sit, sunbeds, dog run,  bathrooms, restaurant – Tacocina, specializing in Mexican tacos – and of course, a simply incredible view that contemplates the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center and the wonderful Williamsburg Bridge.

Address:  15 River St – use the L or NYC Ferry (North Williamsburg).

Fort Tyron Park – located in Hudson Heights and Inwood, Upper Manhattan neighborhoods, right on the northern tip of the island, this park is in a very elevated area of the city. The Billings Lawn is one of the highlights, a lawn that sits on one of the park’s highest points – which gives incredible views of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge. You should also check Billings Mansion – the stone arches that once has served as an entranceway for the estate before it burned to the ground in 1925.  Last but not least the Linden Terrace has a privileged view of the Hudson River – is usually a place for weddings held in the park. It’s full of benches for people to sit and read a book, talk or just enjoy the scenery.

How to get there? Just use A subway line and get off at 190 Street Station, which is right at the entrance to the park.

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