8 Iconic Places to Run in NYC That Aren’t Central Park
The city’s most famous running loop is great—but here’s where to go when you’re looking for something new.
Along with its neighbor Prospect Park, Central Park is one of the most popular running routes in New York City, if not the whole country. And that’s for good reason: With its uninterrupted six-mile loop, scenic reservoir, and aromatic clove on the south side, the heart of Manhattan is a popular choice for a circuit, whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting. But it’s far from the only place to run in the city, and even Central Park’s most dedicated runners can use a change of scenery now and then.
Here’s a list for the resident runner looking for other statues to wave at besides ol’ Fred Lebow off 90th Street, as well as the visitor who wants an insider’s guide to the city’s best less-well-beaten running routes. Venture out, hares and tortoises, and find your runner’s refuge off the beaten path.
Battery Park
How to Get There: Subway 1 to South Ferry, about 30 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 5.4 miles
See the route on Strava
You’ll be in the company of fellow runners, cyclists and throngs of tourists if you choose to run at Manhattan’s southern tip. Begin your run by the Staten Island Ferry, then head south where you’ll see the Statue of Liberty across the water. Continue up the Battery Park City Esplanade where you’ll pass by public art, such as “Ape and Cat at a Dance,” and the Waterfront Plaza at Brookfield Place.
Brooklyn Bridge
How to Get There: Subway 4, 5, 6, R, or W to Brooklyn Bridge City Hall, about 25 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 2.9 miles
See the route on Strava
Wake up early to get a good workout running across this architectural icon. Going west, you’ll see the metallic hues of Manhattan. Watch the skyscrapers sparkle as the sun sets during that magic hour. Heading east, you’ll see the landmark Watchtower sign as Brooklyn gradually swallows you whole.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
How to Get There: Subways A or C to High Street, or subways 2 or 3 to Borough Hall, about 35 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 1.8 miles
See the route on Strava
If you want to skip the vertigo, go for a jog by the East River. The outskirts of the park are undergoing an exciting facelift which will include more flora. For now, take in Manhattan’s skyline and head north for a ring around Jane’s Carousel. Loop back along Water Street for a post-run burger at Shake Shack, which is conveniently right by the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory.
Riverside Park and the Hudson River Greenway
How to Get There: Subways 1, 2, or 3 to 96 Street, about 15 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 6.1 miles
See the route on Strava
Wide paths of the Hudson River Greenway in Riverside Park are idyllic for the Speedy Gonzalezes. Get in a stair workout north of the park at 125th. On your way back, pass through Grant’s Tomb where you’ll see “The Rolling Bench,” a mosaic public art project built by neighborhood children. Finish your run with a Zabar’s sandwich or six-ounce oatmeal raisin cookie from Levain Bakery, one of my favorite hangouts.
Van Cortlandt Park
How to Get There: Subway 1 to Van Cortlandt Park 242 Street, about 45 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 3.0 miles
See the route on Strava
“Van Cortlandt is a world renowned cross country course and close to New Yorkers’ hearts,” says Bobby Asher, team captain of the Van Cortlandt Track Club and co-director of the Riverdale Run. The park hosts high school meets and cross country championships, making it the proverbial starting line for elite runners. Pause beside the tortoise and hare statue to complete your pilgrimage. After surging down the Van Cortlandt paths, grab a slice at Broadway Joe’s Pizza or treat yourself at Lloyd’s Carrot Cake.
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Coney Island Boardwalk
How to Get There: Subways B or Q to Brighton Beach, about 1 hour from Midtown
Distance: 5.0 miles
See the route on Strava
Also known as Riegelmann Boardwalk, this landmark is a picturesque seaside run with the crashing waves of Brighton Beach on one side, and Brooklyn’s Little Odessa (or Little Russia) on the other. Be mindful of your footing, as you may hit a few snags from the protruding nails and uneven planks. Going west, you’ll hear seals barking inside the aquarium, and then shrieks from riders on the Coney Island Cyclone. At the far end of the boardwalk, head back to Luna Park for a Nathan’s Famous hot dog—this is where the famous hot dog eating contest happens, every July 4.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
How to Get There: Subway 7 to Mets-Willets Point Station, about 50 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 4.2 miles
See the route on Strava
Step off the subway and marvel at Citi Field. Now loosen your legs as you jog down the boardwalk to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, home of Arthur Ashe Stadium (for you tennis lovers out there), Queens Museum, and the New York State Pavilion. After encircling the Unisphere, take a circuit around Meadow Lake. Make sure you lather up with SPF, since the path offers plenty of sunshine.
Hudson River Waterfront in Hoboken, New Jersey
How to Get There: Subway PATH to Hoboken, about 30 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 2.3 miles
See the route on Strava
Okay, so it’s not New York City, but you would be remiss not to take advantage of New Jersey’s running terrain. Dan Atkinson, store manager of the New Jersey Running Company, describes the waterfront as largely just pedestrian-owned and “conducive to keeping your pace.” A little island called Sinatra Park is also a nice diversion from the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. Atkinson recommends Bean Vault for an after-run coffee, a hole-in-the-wall independent coffee shop that used to be a bank. 8th Street Tavern, with its seasonal craft beers is also worth a stop if you’re looking for a different postrun refresher.
Amanda is a test editor at Runner’s World who has run the Boston Marathon every year since 2013; she's a former professional baker with a master’s in gastronomy and she carb-loads on snickerdoodles.
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