New York City, often characterized by its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, is also home to a myriad of outdoor tracks nestled within various neighborhoods. These tracks not only serve as venues for athletic training but also act as community hubs, bringing together fitness enthusiasts and casual joggers alike. For those looking to step off the beaten path and discover these hidden gems, here’s a detailed list of ten outdoor tracks in New York neighborhoods, complete with addresses, contact details, and websites.
1. Central Park Track
Address: 96th St & West Drive, New York, NY 10025
Contact: (212) 310-6600
Website: centralparknyc.org
Central Park offers various paths and loops, making it a favored spot for runners. The track spans multiple miles, allowing for endless routes amidst serene landscapes. Surrounded by nature, you can engage in a rejuvenating experience while savoring views of the park’s iconic features.
2. East River Park Track
Address: 6 miles of waterfront from Montgomery St to 23rd St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 639-9675
Website: nycgovparks.org
This track follows the banks of the East River, providing stunning vistas of the water and the Manhattan skyline. Ideal for late-afternoon runs, the park hosts various sports facilities and is frequently filled with local athletes honing their skills.
3. Van Cortlandt Park Track
Address: 20 Van Cortlandt Park South, Bronx, NY 10471
Contact: (718) 430-1800
Website: nycgovparks.org
Van Cortlandt Park features a 1/4 mile rubberized track that attracts dedicated runners and aspiring athletes. This park’s expansive layout includes trails that weave into the scenic woodlands, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts who want to escape urban life.
4. Brooklyn Bridge Park Track
Address: 334 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 438-2500
Website: brooklynbridgepark.org
Nestled along the waterfront, this track offers picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Ideal for leisurely jogs or intense sprints, it serves as an inspiring backdrop for fitness routines and outdoor activities.
5. Prospect Park Track
Address: Enter at Flatbush Ave and Prospect Park, Brooklyn, NY 11225
Contact: (718) 965-8951
Website: prospectpark.org
Encompassing a larger loop, the Prospect Park track attracts runners who appreciate a varied terrain and a vibrant atmosphere. Complete with a picturesque lake and meandering paths, it is a beloved haunt for cyclists and joggers, providing a thriving community experience for all.
6. Thomas Jefferson Park Track
Address: 114th St & 1st Ave, New York, NY 10029
Contact: (212) 860-1370
Website: nycgovparks.org
This park offers a well-maintained track that attracts a diverse crowd. Its inviting nature and community-centric design have made it a hub for local athletes, with facilities that cater to various sporting events and fitness programs throughout the year.
7. Harlem River Park Track
Address: FDR Drive & 138th St, New York, NY 10037
Contact: (212) 639-9675
Website: nycgovparks.org
With its impressive views overlooking the Harlem River, this track provides an invigorating environment for runners. It spans miles along the waterfront, encouraging fitness and community wellness, while being a testament to the revitalization of the Harlem neighborhood.
8. Staten Island Track and Field Complex
Address: 1350 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10302
Contact: (718) 816-6300
Website: sigovparks.org
Designed specifically for athletes, this track offers a state-of-the-art facility for competitive training. The complex serves a variety of athletic events, fostering excellence in sports within Staten Island and catering to the larger community of sports enthusiasts.
9. Kelly Street Garden Track
Address: 160 Kelly St, Bronx, NY 10455
Contact: (718) 589-6789
Website: kellystreetgarden.org
A beacon of sustainability and community engagement, this unique track is situated within a greenhouse setting. Offering a rare blend of urban gardening and physical activity, it serves as an oasis for those seeking a fresh perspective on fitness against a backdrop of greenery.
10. Flushing Meadows Corona Park Track
Address: Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, NY 11368
Contact: (718) 760-6565
Website: nycgovparks.org
Home to the iconic Unisphere, this sprawling park features a track that meanders through green spaces and historical landmarks. Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the ambiance of this park encourages exploration and appreciation of the world around you.
In conclusion, New York City’s outdoor tracks are not just mere strips of pavement; they are vibrant portals into the heart of community life, athletic endeavor, and natural beauty. Embracing both fitness and the great outdoors, these tracks afford residents and visitors a chance to forge connections, explore neighborhoods, and deepen their appreciation for this astonishing city. Whether you’re an avid runner, a casual walker, or someone in search of a tranquil retreat, these tracks promise to shift your perspective on New York’s urban landscape.
