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The High Line

Parks · #7 in Manhattan

The High Line, Parks in Manhattan

The High Line

Very popular Lively and architectural

Photo: Wil Fyfordy, CC BY-SA 4.0

The High Line, New York, NY 10011

Photos

The High Line, Parks in Manhattan

Photo: Dansnguyen, CC0

The High Line, Parks in Manhattan

Photo: Mark Asthoff qa9de, CC0

Interesting facts

  1. The park's design is inspired by the self-seeded landscapes that grew on the abandoned tracks after the trains stopped running.

  2. The High Line contains over 500 species of plants and trees, many of which are native to the area.

  3. It is built on the West Side Line, which was originally constructed to eliminate the 'Death Avenue' hazard caused by street-level trains.

  4. The park's surface is composed of 'peel-up' concrete planks that allow for natural irrigation and plant growth.

  5. Maintenance is primarily funded through a public-private partnership, with the nonprofit Friends of the High Line raising over 95% of the annual budget.

  6. The structure connects directly into the Hudson Yards complex, terminating at the Vessel.

  7. The park features a dedicated 'The Spur' section, which includes a rotating series of large-scale contemporary art commissions.

  8. Several sections of the original railroad tracks were preserved and integrated into the walking paths.

Overview

The High Line is a 1.45-mile-long public park built on a historic freight rail line elevated 30 feet above Manhattan's West Side. It runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to 34th Street near the Javits Center. The elevated structure was originally built in the 1930s to remove dangerous freight trains from the street level. After the last train ran in 1980, the structure was transformed into an urban landscape featuring naturalized plantings, art installations, and performance spaces. It connects diverse neighborhoods including Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. The path is wheelchair accessible with elevators at multiple street-level access points. The park is managed by Friends of the High Line in partnership with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.

Photo spot

The 10th Avenue Square, where the stairs provide a view of the street traffic below and the urban canyon of buildings.

Insider tips

  • Enter from the Gansevoort Street entrance and walk north to finish near the restaurants and attractions of Hudson Yards.

  • Check the official High Line website for the schedule of free public tours or stargazing nights.

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid the heavy pedestrian congestion typical of weekend afternoons.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit on a sunny weekend afternoon when the narrow paths become extremely overcrowded and difficult to navigate.

Good to know

The park remains open daily throughout the year, though specific segments may occasionally close for maintenance or event setup.

Etiquette

No bicycles, rollerblades, or skateboards are permitted. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Do not step into the plant beds.

Video

The High Line in NYC

Plan your visit

Time to see the highlights
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Early weekday mornings during spring or autumn for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Address
The High Line, New York, NY 10011
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areas
Wooden sun loungers, built-in benches, and shaded pavilions located at specific overlooks.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible with elevator access at most street-level entry points.

Frequently asked

How long should I spend at The High Line?

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit is Early weekday mornings during spring or autumn for comfortable weather and fewer crowds..

What's the best photo spot?

The 10th Avenue Square, where the stairs provide a view of the street traffic below and the urban canyon of buildings.

What else is nearby?

Close by you'll find Times Square, Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center.

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