The Best of the East River Promenade
Desperate for a hangout spot in NYC that’s more than just another tourist trap? Wait for a sunny day and take a trip to the East River Promenade.
The East River Promenade was in construction for over a decade, and it’s now one of the most beautiful destinations the New York City. Part of the larger East River Esplanade that spans almost uninterrupted along the east side of Manhattan, the Promenade stretches from the very tip of the island at Pier 34 to just north of 11th Street, connected at both ends by the East River bikeway.
If you’re looking for a scenic walk in the city, take the promenade less traveled and check out this stunning, newly-renovated waterfront near the Dumont NYC.
The Perfect Park
If you’re spending the day on the East River Promenade, the East River Park is a must-see with its playgrounds, amphitheater, and recreational facilities, it’s the quintessential outdoors experience for any family. Whether you’re looking to play catch with the kids at the Park’s open baseball field, or enjoy romantic views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, there’s plenty within this 57-acre space to explore and enjoy.
The Park is a great destination for runners, and with a schedule that makes its paths from 6am to midnight, the park will definitely accommodate your exercise regimen. There’s also a bike pathway open 24 hours a day, away from both cars and pedestrians to keep you safe while you’re in gear.
And for those with pets, there’s even a dog run! Both you and your pup can get a workout at this beautiful waterside retreat.
Riverside Eats
All that activity can work up an appetite. Thankfully, the Promenade offers a variety of dining options, both affordable and more upscale if you’re looking to splurge.
If you’re looking for a fun and unorthodox dining experience to share with a friend or two, check out Zum Schneider, a Bavarian beerhouse on East 7th. This places churns out delicious German food and beer and also provides a quaint outdoor seating area.
It offers a whole bunch of affordable options, especially around brunchtime. The meals on the brunch menu which are amazing German takes on brunch classics all cash in around ten bucks.
For those who prefer food that’s a little less hearty and more expensive grab brunch at The Water Club on a Saturday or Sunday. This restaurant floats on the East River at 29th Street, making for a surreal dining experience.
The amazing views are matched only by the super-tasty meal options, the highlights of which include linguine fra diavolo, spice crusted tuna, and oven roasted crab cake. There’s also a lobster brunch menu for those willing to shell out a little more cash.
But if you’d rather enjoy a more low-key Promenade food experience, feel free to pack a lunch. There are plenty of delis on the East Side, including the East Side Gourmet Deli, where you can buy cold cuts, and a bunch of beautiful spots on the Esplanade to lay out a picnic blanket.
This option is ideal for kids who can be too picky and too jumpy for upscale restaurants in fact, on a beautiful day, it’s ideal for everyone!
Though the East Side Promenade was once a rundown town, it’s been converted into a stunning retreat, full of opportunities to eat, play, and relax even with kids or pets.
If you’re on vacation in NYC, youÕve probably had your ear talked off about the beauty of the Highline, and while that’s a great spot to visit, the Promenade is a secret hotspot for locals, more likely to give you an authentic New York experience. Grab your bike and picnic blanket and head over!
