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New York wasn’t built in a day – and these national parks tell the tale of what the city had to endure before it became the bustling metropolis as we know it.
Concrete Jungle, Urban Eden
New York City, famed as the “concrete jungle,” is home to more than skyscrapers and bustling streets. It’s also a haven for those seeking a slice of nature and history in the urban sprawl. With New York’s array of national parks, the city offers idyllic yet educational retreats where the clamor of the metropolis merges seamlessly with tranquil landscapes.
An interesting fact that might surprise you is that New York City has over 1,700 public parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities, covering a whopping 14% of the city! Only a small portion of this number are national parks, but they conveniently surround the city’s port and preserve around 400 years of American history.
This goes to show that the Big Apple isn’t just about lights, Broadway, and Wall Street. It’s also an urban Eden where history lovers can find respite. With that said, let’s journey through the eight best New York national parks that will add a contemplative and invigorating vibe to your city trip.
8 Best New York National Parks
Apart from offering a tranquil escape from the city bustle, these national parks play an important part in preserving the history of New York and of the US as a whole:
1. CASTLE CLINTON NATIONAL MONUMENT
Nestled in Battery Park, Castle Clinton was initially a fort intended to prevent a British invasion in 1812. When the war ended, the fort was repurposed as a military prison and again as an entertainment venue. Fun fact for fans of The Greatest Show: even P.T. Barnum parked his famous circus here!
Today, Castle Clinton is a bustling spot where you can explore a piece of American history through the exhibits and enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty.
2. HAMILTON GRANGE NATIONAL MEMORIAL
As the former home of one of the Founding Fathers of the U.S., Hamilton Grange offers a glimpse into Alexander Hamilton’s personal life. Here, you will be treated to display halls with Hamilton-related historical artifacts. Three restored period rooms in the house are open for both guided and self-guided visits. You can also watch the fifteen-minute introductory film on demand!
3. GENERAL GRANT NATIONAL MEMORIAL
Also known as Grant’s Tomb, this is the final resting place of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th U.S. President, and his first lady, Julia Dent Grant. This enormous granite structure evokes a sense of solemn respect for one of America’s Civil War heroes. If you’re visiting with children who have a keen interest in history, this national park in New York offers tours and educational programs.
4. AFRICAN BURIAL GROUND NATIONAL MONUMENT
This park in Lower Manhattan is a powerful reminder of the African slave trade, as it’s the largest burial ground in North America for both free and enslaved Africans. Here, you’ll experience an indelible piece of African history from the 1600s to the mid-1700s.
Archaeologists discovered the bones of more than 400 people who had been buried at the location in the 1990s while working on the construction of a federal office building. The location was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993 and eventually changed its status to a National Monument in 2006 following years of protests and support by local residents and activists.
5. STONEWALL NATIONAL MONUMENT
On June 28, 1969, the Stonewall Uprising, commonly known as the Stonewall Riots, began when The Stonewall Inn, a gay club in New York City’s Greenwich Village, was searched by city police. Fights and protests ensued, and the event ultimately transformed the gay liberation movement.
Stonewall National Monument is a relatively new addition to New York’s national parks and iconic landmarks. However, a visit there provides no shortage of insight into the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the US.
6. STATUE OF LIBERTY NATIONAL MONUMENT
A visit to the national parks in New York wouldn’t be complete without seeing the iconic Statue of Liberty. This iconic statue stands 310 feet tall and was gifted to the US as a symbol of the friendship between France and America – something that was formed during the American Revolution. Fun fact: though the statue was created by French sculptor Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi, it was designed by the same man who ideated the Eiffel Tower.
7. FEDERAL HALL NATIONAL MEMORIAL
Standing on Wall Street, the Federal Hall is where George Washington took the oath as the first U.S. President. This was during the time when the government of the US operated out of NYC. After the American Revolution, Federal Hall housed the first Congress, Supreme Court, and Executive Office of the nation.
While here, you can get a marvelous view of the rotunda and Wall Street. You can also see the first inaugural bible, the inauguration balcony slab, and an a bank vault in person! We also recommend checking out the portrait gallery and museum store.
8. LOWER EAST SIDE TENEMENT MUSEUM NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
A visit to the Lower East Side Tenement Museum is like stepping into the past. As you wander through the beautifully restored apartments, you can almost hear the voices of over 7,000 immigrant families who made their homes here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is not only a significant national park in New York, but also a touching reminder of the city’s diverse cultural roots.
Where to Stay Near New York’s National Parks
After a day of strolling through New York’s national parks, you’ll need a place to recharge and prepare for another day of urban exploration. Here are five districts within close proximity to our featured parks, offering an array of amenities and additional sightseeing opportunities.
BROOKLYN
A cultural melting pot, Brooklyn offers a range of dining options, from Roberta’s pizza to the famed Peter Luger Steak House. Don’t miss a walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge or a visit to the Brooklyn Public Library.
MANHATTAN
Central to many national parks, Manhattan is filled with high-end restaurants and cafes, like Eleven Madison Park. Visit the world-renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art and browse shops along Fifth Avenue. It’s the heart of New York City, pulsing with non-stop activity.
STATEN ISLAND
Home to Gateway National Recreation Area, Staten Island also boasts the Staten Island Zoo and the historic St. George Theatre. Savor local cuisine at Blue, a popular waterfront restaurant.
QUEENS
Queens is known for its diverse culinary scene, being home to the classic dinner, Neptune, and the trendy bar, Dutch Kills. It hosts the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center and the Museum of the Moving Image.
THE BRONX
The Bronx is known for Yankee Stadium and the sprawling Bronx Zoo. Find authentic Italian cuisine on Arthur Avenue and enjoy a peaceful stroll in the New York Botanical Garden.
Find Serene Urban Escapes With Rent By Owner
So, there you have it! New York City is much more than an urban landscape. It’s a fusion of bustling city life and serene havens, with each national park offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past. If you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a culinary adventurer, the Big Apple has everything you’re looking for.
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TLDR
New York City is not just about its iconic skyline and bustling streets, but also home to a myriad of national parks, each providing a tranquil yet educational retreat. This list recommends the Stonewall National Monument, the Lower East Side Tenement Museum National Historic Site, the Federal Hall National Memorial, the African Burial Ground National Monument, the General Grant National Memorial, the Hamilton Grange National Memorial, the Castle Clinton National Monument, and the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Along with exploring these parks, you can stay in nearby districts such as Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Queens, or The Bronx, each brimming with its own attractions and unique cultural experiences.
