Spring is now in full swing, and with the changing of the seasons and the warmer weather, it is time to think about spending more time outside after the long winter.
New York City is never short on fun activities, and outdoor ones are no exception. Below are 5 fun, healthy outside activities in NYC, just in time to celebrate spring.
Walking The High Line in Chelsea
The High Line park, which is located in Chelsea, is actually a great place to walk year round: it's fun to watch the seasons change while getting some exercise alongside the former railroad tracks.
Every year The High Line has expanded: there are now more miles for walking, as well as plenty of stands set up for drinks and fun food like popsicles.
The High Line affords a great scenic view of the surrounding Chelsea neighborhood, as well as a prime spot for people watching. There are chase lounges and benches to rest on when one needs to sit and eat or enjoy the view.
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Biking Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Biking is great exercise, and biking across the Brooklyn Bridge has the added bonus of a great view both the Brooklyn and Manhattan skyline. You can continue to bike once you reach whatever borough is your destination, or you can venture on foot.
There are several ways to do this. You can use your own bike, or if you don’t own a bike there are plenty of bike rental options. One of the easiest ways to obtain a bike for an afternoon is to rent a CitiBike which is only $9.95 plus tax for a 24 hour pass, and then return it to a kiosk.
Or, if biking has worn you out, hop on the East River Ferry or a water taxi for an easy float back.
Taking a fitness class in Central Park
Taking a fitness class is one thing, utilizing the natural features of a park to partake in a fitness class in another. Central Park has the Central Park Circuit, which starts classes on May 12.
According to their website, the Circuit will help you get “fit with innovative exercises designed by top trainers to utilize the Park’s best natural features: rocks, trails, stairs, hills, and gorgeous open lawns.”
While space is limited (Central Park Conservancy Members who bring their card are guaranteed a slot in the class) the classes are free.
Sailing/Exploring Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Sailing lessons are not free, but Queens Flushing Meadows Corona Park offers reasonably priced lessons for sailing on Meadows Lake. $300 will get you six on the water lessons, and a solo sail test.
However, there is plenty to do in Corona Park besides sailing. The park is home to the Queens Museum of Art and New York Hall of Science (great for a rainy day) as well as the Botanical Garden and the Queens Wildlife Center, which are wonderful places to walk around on a mild spring day.
The Park also is has Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, and the USTA National Tennis Centre.
Gardening in the City
Gardening is great for several reasons: you are outside, getting exercise, and contributing to the beautification of your neighborhood or city.
You can volunteer to help garden at the New York Botanical Garden, who can always use volunteers. Or, you can help out at one of your community gardens: there are over 600 such gardens in the city across the five boroughs. Look here to find a garden close by!
Are there any fun healthy outside activities in NYC that we missed? Let us know in the comments!
