15 Best Running Routes In NYC You Can Visit Today
There is no denying that New York City really is one of the best cities in the world. There is something special about the hustle and bustle of NYC that you don’t quite get in any other city.
But there is no denying that finding running routes in this city isn’t always easy.
New York City is one of the busiest cities in the world. It is always on the go and very busy.
This means running around the streets isn’t always possible, especially if you plan on running in a small group.
That being said, there are actually TONS of different running routes that you can take across the city. If you are new to the Big Apple, some of these running routes are perfect for exploring the city and seeing the sights.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of 15 of the best running routes in NYC that you can visit today. Read on to find out more!
15 Best Running Routes In NYC
1. Central Park
The first running route to visit is Central Park. Central Park is an iconic location in NYC, and it really is a beautiful location for a run.
Central Park is open from 6 am through till 1 am every day, so it is perfect for running first thing in the morning, and in the evening too.
The unspoken rule in Central Park is to run counterclockwise and to be aware of cyclists in the area.
2. Hudson River Greenway
Another brilliant running spot in NYC is the Hudson River Greenway. This trail is popular among cyclists and runners alike, and it is great for anyone who loves running alongside water.
The trail follows the river and offers beautiful views of the river and the New Jersey skyline. In particular, this route is great for sunrise and sunset running because the views across the city truly are unbeatable!
3. East River Esplanade
If you really liked the Hudson River Greenway run, then we would recommend the East River Esplanade. This route is great because it is around 15 kilometers in length and is designed for those who want to exercise.
Trailing through East Harlem, Carl Schurz Park, and the Upper East Side, this running route explores a totally different part of NYC. Enter from 37th or 34th Street and join the East River Esplanade for a brilliant run!
4. East River
Another brilliant run for anyone who loves running alongside the East River Esplanade is the route that takes you around the East River.
This route is perfect for anyone searching for a longer-running route in NYC, or for anyone who wants unbeatable city views.
The East River is incredibly long and a real beauty to follow throughout the city. So we would definitely recommend this route for any river runners!
5. Manhattan Waterfront Greenway
Alternatively, you should consider the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway. This is a very long route, and it is perfect if you are building yourself up to run for longer distances.
The Manhattan Waterfront Greenway stretches for 32 miles, so you could easily start off with a smaller distance, and then build up the length, all without needing to switch routes.
This running route trails all the way around Manhattan, so it really is a great way to explore this area of the city, all while getting some exercise!
6. Prospect Park
Some people prefer running in a park to running alongside water, and that’s fine. If you like the idea of running in Central Park, you should also pay a visit to Prospect Park.
Prospect Park is an urban park in Brooklyn situated in the center of the neighborhoods in this area. It is a beautiful running route all year round, perfect for anyone who wants to see running routes in Brooklyn and explore a different area of NYC.
7. Hudson River Park
If you are looking for a running path in NYC that combines river-side running with park running, then Hudson River Park is made for you.
This park located alongside the Hudson River is a stunning running route, and perfect for anyone looking for something a little different.
Extending from the park on 59th Street south to Battery Park, this route really is a beauty, and made for anyone interested in long-distance running.
8. Riverside Park
Another great park to check out if you like the idea of Hudson River Park is Riverside Park. Riverside Park is a scenic waterfront public park located on the Upper West Side.
On this running route, you will explore totally different areas of the city from what the other routes have you exploring. So, if you are looking for another park run in NYC, we would recommend visiting Riverside Park.
9. West Side Highway
Some people prefer to run in urban areas, and if that is the case for you, you should check out West Side Highway.
This highway, or the Joe DiMaggio Highway as it is also called, runs up alongside the Hudson River Greenway and it is a great run.
It isn’t the most visually pleasing route, but it is great for anyone who just likes to run. You should definitely check out this urban running route in NYC!
10. Brooklyn Bridge
One route that you should definitely check out is the Brooklyn Bridge. The Brooklyn Bridge really is one of the most iconic locations in NYC, and it is also a great running route.
A run across the Brooklyn Bridge is one that you will never grow bored with and one you will enjoy time and time again. This is a good place to run in NYC.
11. Manhattan Bridge
If you enjoyed your run across the Brooklyn Bridge, you will also love to run across the Manhattan Bridge.
Just like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge offers excellent views and a great running path. You’ll find yourself running this route time and time again, and really who can blame you?
12. The High Line
Were you a fan of the last two bridge runs we looked at? Then we think you’ll love a run across the NYC High Line. The High Line is a popular tourist spot, but it is also a great running route for any locals.
With dreamy views and the opportunity to explore the city, this really is a great route to check out when in NYC!
13. Brooklyn Heights Promenade
A brilliant running route in the Brooklyn area of the city is Brooklyn Heights Promenade. If you live near Brooklyn, then this really is a great route to check out.
This route is perfect for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of central NYC and enjoy a run in a more peaceful location. You definitely should check this route out if you love to run!
14. Queen’s Waterfront
Stretching from Sunset Park to Long Island City, you will find Queen’s Waterfront. This running route is a little more off the beaten path, and a great place to go if you want to check out a new route.
In this guide, we’ve included some of the most popular running routes in NYC, but Queen’s Waterfront is very much the path less traveled, so it is great for anyone wanting something a little quieter.
15. New York City Half Marathon Route
Finally, if you fancy a challenge, then you should check out the New York City Half Marathon Route. The NYC Half Marathon follows the same route every year, and you can easily follow this route yourself in your own time.
Starting in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park through to Central Park via the Brooklyn Bridge, this run is a real beauty. It really is one to check out, particularly if you are interested in marathon running.
The Bottom Line
In short, there are lots of excellent running routes located across New York City. From a trail across the Manhattan Bridge to a run through Central Park, there are lots of options to choose from.
Whether you are new to the city or have lived there for years, we’re confident you’ll love these running paths. The best thing about them? You can check them out right now!
So what are you waiting for?
Thanks for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Jog In NYC?
Yes, you absolutely can jog in NYC. There are tons of different running routes and runners across the city and lots of different ways for you to explore the city while you run.
New York City is filled with rivers and parks that you can visit to go for a run. In this guide, we’ve included lots of brilliant running routes for you to check out.
Is It Safe To Jog In Central Park At Night?
While jogging in Central Park during the day is perfectly fine, this isn’t something that you can do during the night.
You shouldn’t enter Central Park during the night, and should only utilize the running trails in the park during the daytime.
If you decide to go running in Central Park, remember that you should run counterclockwise and be alert for cyclists.
