This article delves into National Parks in New York.
New York encompasses a series of national parks that add to the varied experiences one would have in exploring American history and natural beauty.
This blog post identifies 10 of the best National Parks in New York to Visit. Enjoy.
Central Park
It has a Google Rating of 4.4 stars and over 200,000 reviews.
Central Park is a vast, iconic urban park of 843 acres in Manhattan that provides the much-needed respite from city life. The facility, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, offers ample opportunities for hikes, adventure, activities, and recreation in general.
Hike through its paths, boat on the lake, or lie down and soak in the sun on the Great Lawn. Because of such varied landscapes, different natural habitats house a wide range of wildlife species, especially birds. Conservation efforts involve juggling natural and contrived landscapes. Park maps guide visitors through attractions like Belvedere Castle and the Shakespeare Garden.
Central Park Address
New York, NY, United States
Central Park Numbers
+1 212-310-6600
Hyde Park
Its attractions have Google Ratings of 4.7 stars and over 2000 reviews each.
The city is a part of Dutchess County and comprises several historic sites and natural areas. The Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site preserves the Springwood estate, allowing guests to visit the house and grounds, including the first Presidential Library—trails for hiking wind throughout the forests and fields of the estate.
The Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site at Val-Kill is nearby and offers a glimpse into the influential life of this First Lady. Both preserves focus on preserving historical and natural resources and providing critical habitats for local wildlife.
Hyde Park Address
Dutchess County, New York
Hyde Park Numbers
+1 45-229-5111
Castle Clinton National Monument
It has a Google Rating of 4.4 stars and over 21,000 reviews.
Situated in Battery Park at the southernmost tip of Manhattan, Castle Clinton is one of the National Parks in NYC that brings back the state’s colorful maritime history. Constructed as a fort in 1811 to protect New York Harbor, it would later serve as the first immigration station in America, predating Ellis Island.
Today, it serves as a gateway to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for visitors and conducts nature education programs highlighting the ecology and history of the harbor. This circular sandstone fort, sited on an island in New York Harbor, provides spectacular harbor views and a tableau into the history of New York. The island is a favorite for photography enthusiasts.
Castle Clinton Address
26 Wall St, New York, NY 10005
Castle Clinton Numbers
+(212) 344-7220
Greenbelt
It has a Google Rating of 4.7 stars and over 200 reviews.
The Greenbelt is a system of connected public parklands, approximately 2,800 acres in Staten Island. In its many amenities, it offers over 35 miles of hiking trails. Wetlands, forests, and meadows are only some of the habitats that house varied wildlife in the park, while birdwatchers make regular stops here throughout the year.
The Nature Center at Greenbelt provides nature education programs concerning the local ecosystem and its preservation needs. Scenic drives through the park allow visitors to take in the sights and stop to enjoy the various attractions, such as the Carousel for All Children.
Greenbelt Address
700 Rockland Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314
Greenbelt Numbers
+1 718-351-3450
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
It has a Google Rating of 4.7 stars and 562 reviews.
The Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site in Hyde Park preserves Val-Kill, the only home Eleanor Roosevelt ever personally owned. This park tells a story about her efforts to promote social justice and human rights, and its nature education programs highlight her role in environmental activism.
The grounds around it offer some short hiking trails through the beautiful nature that inspired the former First Lady. The location includes a cottage, stone buildings, gardens, and artwork, which give insight into Eleanor Roosevelt’s life and work.
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site Address
4097 Albany Post Road Hyde Park, NY 12538
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site Numbers
+(845)-229-9422
Ellis Island
Its attractions have Google Ratings of 4.7 stars and over 70,000 reviews.
Ellis is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and is an iconic symbol of America’s immigrant heritage. Even though it is in New Jersey waters, the island is managed by New York and New Jersey. In this location, more than 12 million immigrants passed through between 1892 and 1954.
Today, the restored leading building houses a museum on immigration that visitors can tour. One can purchase ferry tickets, which provide a great view of New York Harbor and the skyline. This island also includes hiking trails and photography opportunities, whether capturing historic architecture or the natural beauty of nature.
Ellis Island Address
1 Ellis Island Jersey City, NJ 07305
Ellis Island Numbers
+(212) 363-3200
Fire Island National Seashore
It has a Google Rating of 4.8 stars and over 3,000 reviews.
Located off the south shore of Long Island, Fire Island National Seashore is a 26-mile stretch that also functions as a wildlife habitat boasting maritime forests, salt marshes, and beaches. Visitors can also engage in activities like camping, hiking, and birdwatching.
Built-in 1858, the Fire Island Lighthouse measures 168 feet above sea level and provides a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Great South Bay. Many rare and endangered species call the seashore home, and the area plays a significant role in conservation. Park maps take visitors on a tour from the beach to the bay, with many ecosystems in between, showing just how much biodiversity exists on the island.
Fire Island National Seashore Address
120 Laurel Street Patchogue, NY 11772
Fire Island National Seashore Numbers
+ (631)-569-2100
General Grant National Memorial
It has a Google Rating 4.8 stars and over 3,000 reviews.
The General Grant National Memorial, more colloquially referred to as Grant’s Tomb, sits in Upper Manhattan, housing the remains of President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia. This stately structure provides a respite from the city bustle, allowing for reflection and meandering along the Hudson River.
This memorial is beautiful, filled with various mosaics and sculptures depicting scenes of Grant’s life. While generally centered around historic preservation, the surrounding Riverside Park offers green space for relaxation and light hiking.
General Grant National Memorial Address
26 Wall Street C/O General Grant National Memorial New York, NY 10005
General Grant National Memorial Numbers
+(646) 670-7251
Gateway National Recreation Area
It has a Google Rating of 4.7 stars and over 6,500 reviews.
Extending through parts of New York City and New Jersey, Gateway National Recreation Area offers an urban retreat to millions of visitors annually. This park encompasses everything from sandy beaches to salt marshes, even a former airfield.
The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge within Gateway is one of the most critical stopovers for migratory birds along the Atlantic Flyway. It perhaps represents one of the most important aspects of conservation that the park represents. The infrastructure includes miles of trails, water activities, or just a day at the beach next to the New York City skyline. The park has an extensive nature education system, focusing on urban ecology and the importance of protected areas within city limits.
Gateway National Recreation Area Address
210 New York Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305
Gateway National Recreation Area Numbers
+(718) 354-4606
Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail
While associated primarily with the Chesapeake Bay region, the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail is connected to New York through the state’s waterways. The trail commemorates the voyages of English explorer John Smith throughout the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries during the early 17th century.
One can engage in many outdoor recreation activities like boating, geocaching, and sailing excursions. Park maps are provided so people can choose their preferred activity and gain access to directions for said activities. The best part about it, however, is that one can visit the park on its website from the comfort of their home.
Note: Since the historic multiple locations, it has no specific address or numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions about National Parks in New York
How many national parks are in New York?
New York State contains 24 sites managed by the National Park Service.
What is the name of the famous New York park?
Central Park is one of the most visited urban parks. Every year, more than 42 million tourists visit Central Park.