The High Line
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The High Line, once a railroad track, has blossomed into a celebrated public park sought out by locals and tourists alike. It is on the west side of Manhattan, stretching from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street. This remarkable stretch of urban park was born from the repurposed remnants of a freight rail line, active from the 1930s to the 1980s. It opened its gates in 2009 as a public space where visitors experience nature and art.
How to Get There
If traveling by air, the closest airports are LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport. As for ground transportation, New York City's extensive metro system is your best bet. Taxis and ride-sharing applications like Uber and Lyft are also available in New York City.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to The High Line
Visit The High Line
The High Line is a haven of tranquility amidst the city hustle, offering a unique vantage point to see Manhattan. It is home to various species of plants and trees, arranged in a wild, free-growing manner that echoes the self-seeded landscape that grew on the disused tracks.
One of the key landmarks in the park is the Tiffany & Co. Foundation Overlook, standing above Gansevoort Street, where you can view the cobblestone streets of the Meatpacking District and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
As for the best time to visit, the High Line is stunning in all seasons, but spring and fall offer spectacular views, with the park's flora exploding in spring and the leaves turning gorgeous gold in autumn.
Ticket Information
Entry to the High Line is free. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. In addition, you can join a free tour led by a High Line Docent. High Line Docents are knowledgeable volunteer guides offering information on the park's history, design, and landscape. The tours take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from May to October and on Wednesdays and Saturdays from November to April.
Family-Friendly Options
The High Line is a fantastic place to bring the whole family. Its dramatic and unusual setting, combined with the charm of the local flora, turns every visit into an adventure for everyone.
One of the significant parts of the park is the Pershing Square Beams, a section designed specifically with children in mind. The concrete deck has been removed to reveal the superstructure in this area. The steel beams and girders are coated in silicone to allow children to climb on them safely.
If you're planning to visit with a large group, it's worth noting that the park can get quite busy during peak hours. You may want to plan on arriving early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
To truly soak in the essence of the High Line, start your journey from the southern end at Gansevoort Street. Here, you can take photographs from the Tiffany & Co. Foundation Overlook.
From there, make your way north, allowing yourself to get lost in the park's sights, sounds, and smells. Stop by the Diller-von Furstenberg Sundeck & Water Feature, especially during summer, for a refreshing break.
Next, make your way to the 10th Avenue Square and Overlook. It is a beautiful spot to capture street photography as life on 10th Avenue unfolds below you. From here, continue your journey to the park's northern end, exploring the Pershing Square Beams if traveling with children. Conclude your walk at the Rail Yards, the northernmost section of the park, where you can capture some stunning shots overlooking the Hudson River.
The High Line Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park is just a 45-minute drive from Yonkers. This campground offers spacious sites that can comfortably accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. At different points throughout the park, you can experience the tural beauty provided by the Lower Hudson Valley.
Sun Air Lakeside Campground is a Jersey City, New Jersey campground that offers relief from the busy city life. Situated beside Dogwood Pond in Oak Ridge, New Jersey, this park allows extended stays in a peaceful environment. The local town of Oak Ridge provides many of the amenities absent in the park itself, including restaurants, theaters, laundromats, and stores.
There is one Jersey City, New Jersey campground within the confines of the city. Liberty Harbor Marina & RV Park is a must-visit location for anyone interested in U.S. history. From this RV park, you can see the New York skyline, including the Statue of Liberty.
Activities Near The High Line
Things to Do
Nature watching
Just steps away from the High Line, you'll find the Hudson River Park, a haven for nature lovers. This waterfront park is excellent for watching the local bird population and enjoying the lush greenery.
Stargazing
The Amateur Astronomers Association of New York conducts stargazing sessions on the High Line on Tuesday evenings from April through October. It's an incredible opportunity to gaze at the stars, planets, and moon through high-powered telescopes right in the heart of Manhattan.
Flora and fauna
The High Line is famous for its diverse range of plants and trees, making it a fantastic place for flora admirers. In the summer, the flowing plants attract many bees and butterflies.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
New York City experiences a full range of weather conditions throughout the year. Spring is mild and pleasant, with flowering plants adding colorful bursts to the landscape. In summer, make sure to bring along plenty of water because it can be hot and humid. Fall is arguably the best time to enjoy autumn colors. It rarely goes below freezing in winter during the daytime, but you will want to wear warm clothes to be comfortable.
No matter the season, it's always a good idea to keep an eye on the weather forecast ahead of your visit and pack accordingly. A small umbrella or raincoat could come in handy for unexpected showers. And most importantly, wear comfortable footwear, as you'll be doing a lot of walking while exploring.
Safety & Accessibility
The High Line is open to the public without security at the entrance points. However, park staff and volunteers oversee the area, and you can speak to one of them if you feel unsafe. It is always a good idea to ensure a group member has a smartphone to dial 911 in case of a health issue or other emergency.
For visitors with disabilities, the High Line is fully accessible. All entrances have elevators, and the walking paths have been designed with wheelchairs in mind. For visually impaired visitors, there are paving strips with textures along the park's paths to guide you.
Conclusion
The High Line is arguably one of New York City's most unique and enchanting attractions. Once an elevated railway, it's a vibrant public park that merges nature, art, and design. It is an example of the many hidden gems you can discover while exploring New York or other destinations across the United States in an RV rental.
FAQ
Unfortunately, there are no camping options in close proximity to the High Line. However, if you are willing to take a short trip, numerous campgrounds and RV parks are within a reasonable drive of the city.
If you have a large RV, navigating the streets and traffic close to the High Line may be frustrating and stressful. Consider parking away from the hustle and bustle and taking public transportation to enjoy this destination.
While the park is open year-round, it can be popular, especially on weekends and during summer, so plan for possible crowds. In addition, you may want to download the High Line's free plant guide to learn more about the native flora that populates the park.
The High Line is a family-friendly attraction. It offers a unique, elevated perspective of the city that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Pets are not permitted in the park. However, well-trained service animals are welcome.