Running is a great way to stay fit and get outside. The benefits include improved cardiovascular health, increased energy levels, and reduced stress.
If you live in NYC, you probably already know that there are tons of great running trails around the city.
Van Cortlandt Park
We’re starting by heading out of the madness of the center of NYC and heading to the outskirts of Manhattan.
Van Cortlandt Park is one of the best urban parks in NYC, with miles upon miles of paved trails. Runners will love the tree-lined roads through the park, which also have designated bike lanes.
There are also tennis courts, two swimming pools, baseball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, and even an ice skating rink.
Battery Park
Battery Park is home to some of the best views of Lower Manhattan. Running along the Hudson River provides amazing sights of both the Statue of Liberty and the World Trade Center site.
This 8-mile long path is open 24/7 and runs right next to the Brooklyn Bridge, so it’s perfect if you want to avoid the crowds on the bridge itself. Speaking of a certain iconic bridge…
Over The Brooklyn Bridge
This is another popular route into Brooklyn, but it’s not just any old Brooklyn trail — this is the famous Brooklyn Bridge! It’s a great place to cross the East River and see the world’s greatest suspension bridge.
Central Park
You didn’t think we were going to forget Central Park, did you? That would be crazy. But here, we are.
Central Park has more than 400 acres of beautiful landscapes and excellent running paths. You’ll find everything from wooded areas to vast meadows and even your own little slice of forest within the park.
Coney Island Boardwalk
If you’re looking for an epic but calming run, then come out to play along the Coney Island Boardwalk at the deep south of Brooklyn.
We suggest you bring your headphones and prepare for a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean as well as plenty of other runners.
Prospect Park
Prospect Park is located near the Upper West Side of Manhattan and is a wonderful place to explore.
A large part of the park is made up of rolling hills lined with trees and grassy lawns, while other parts contain ponds and waterfalls.
West Side To Lower Manhattan
The west side of Manhattan is loaded with incredible sights. You’ve got the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the Chrysler Building all within sight of each other.
Take advantage of these landmarks before hopping on the train back to the east side of town.
Riverside Park And The Hudson River Greenway
Riverside Park is set along the banks of the Hudson River in Manhattan. You’ll find many different trails to use throughout the park: paved ones, wooden boardwalks, dirt paths, jogging paths, and more.
One of our favorites is the Hudson River Greenway, which follows the entire length of the Hudson River.
Flushing Meadows Park
Flushing Meadows Park is actually three separate parks: Flushing Meadow Park, Corona Park, and Maspeth Woods.
These parks offer tons of activities, including sports like softball, cycling, rollerblading, and much more.
If you happen to visit during the summertime, don’t forget to check out the BBQ grills, kids’ amusements, and carousel too!
Roosevelt Island Loop
Roosevelt Island is one of the most mysterious NYC locations. Spanning across two small islands between Queens and the Bronx, there is something truly special about this place and its lack of visitors due to its remote location.
There are around 100 acres of land and 90 buildings, making it a great spot for exploring nature and architecture.
Fort Greene Park
Fort Greene Park sits right by the waterfront in DUMBO, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. There’s also a huge food court where you can grab some grub after a long run.
The Highline
The Highline runs through the heart of Chelsea Market, bringing in thousands of people every day. This unique elevated rail-trail was built above 12th Avenue, allowing for amazing views of the whole city.
Governors Island
Governors Island lies off the coast of Manhattan in New York Harbor. Visit this island for a nice long run or jog, or to take in the fresh air at one of the best beaches in NYC.
Central Park Reservoir Loop
We’ve already mentioned Central Park; but if you want a shorter, more intense run you should check out the reservoir loop. It’s just under 2 miles (3 kilometers) and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
East River Promenade
This trail is perfect for running, walking, biking, inline skating, and even rollerblading. On weekends, you may see skaters, bikers, and walkers enjoying this beautiful path.
Randall’s Island
Randall’s Island is an urban oasis in the middle of the East River that offers not only a picturesque view of the Manhattan skyline, but also a forested area, winding roads, and plenty of green space.
Come here to clear your head, get some exercise, and enjoy the natural beauty.
Manhattan Bridge
The Manhattan Bridge connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn together in their shared neighborhood of Williamsburg.
Running alongside the bridge will give you a chance to experience both sides of the river, from the bustling streets of downtown Manhattan to the scenic greenery of Bushwick.
Williamsburg Bridge
The Williamsburg Bridge connects the neighborhoods of Bedford Stuyvesant and North Brooklyn via a pedestrian walkway and has been serving as a vital connection since 1955.
Crossing the bridge offers incredible views of Downtown Brooklyn.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the best places to run in NYC, we hope that we’ve helped you find the top 18 spots to get your cardio fix.
There are a tonne of different options that span most of the inner city areas, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, but there are many more in the other boroughs of New York City.
For the first year, I wallowed in my feelings and gained 50 pounds as a result. The next year, with the help of a professional or two, I began working on myself and seeing changes.
Surprisingly enough, I found running to be my main source of comfort in such a trying time. I began running once a day for five minutes, working up to 10, then 20, 30, 40 - until I was running for an hour each morning.
Running started my day off right and on the days where I ran, I found that I was more likely to excel in work and have a better day mentally.
So, that is why I have created Run In The Sun. I want to make your running journey as easy as possible so that you can feel these benefits too. I promise you, it will be so worth it!
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