Bucket list experience:
Credit Shutterstock.com/Andrew F. Kazmierski
Some said genius, others madness. In 2009, the remains of an elevated freight railway line on the West Side were converted into one of the world’s most unusual and interesting parks. Snaking serpent-like north to south, from 29th Street to Gansevoort Street, the 10-25m-wide platform, stocked with native wildflowers next to the old tracks, is already a New York institution.
It’s great from top to bottom but if pushed for time, do the stretch from 20th Street to 14th Street through the wild grasslands. There are also sundecks, water features, and some of the best views and architecture.
All-in-all a compulsory stroll that combines terrific design, gritty urban architecture and river views.
At 19th Street, look for the Frank Gehry-designed quirky west-side commercial building known as ‘The Iceberg’, with the river beyond. Stop for the views from the tiered benches at 17th Street.
You can’t miss the iconic ‘Standard’ hotel, another architectural icon, dominating the skyline in the Meatpacking District.
Stop en route at Billy’s Bakery (184 9th Avenue) for some of New York’s best cupcakes, the perfect sustenance for walking the High Line.
It takes about 30 minutes to walk from top to bottom, but you can dip in or out at multiple entry points en route. There are stairs at Gansevoort Street, 14th Street, 16th Street, 20th Street, 23rd Street, 27th and 29th Streets. There is wheelchair access (elevators) at 14th, 16th, 23rd, and 29th Streets.
The park is open all year round, seven days a week.
There is little shade or shelter from the elements, so avoid poor weather conditions. Early morning is lovely before the crowds, and to see the river around sunrise. The park gets crowded on summer weekends, when there are even queues for the access-stairs.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
New York, United States of America (USA)
The ‘city that never sleeps’ is a 24/7 thrill of soaring skyscrapers, jaw-dropping architecture, dynamic culture and world-class art, dining and performing arts scenes.
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
From traversing sand dunes, to walking on glaciers, through canyons, up mountains and along ancient city walls, here’s our round-up of the world’s best walks. Each walk can be tackled in a day or less with a moderate level of fitness and no technical ability.
