New York City’s diverse neighborhoods are home to a myriad of parks, each offering unique experiences. Among these features, waterfalls create serene, picturesque settings that provide a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. Each park boasts its own character, from hidden gems to well-loved attractions. Here, we explore ten parks with captivating waterfalls, complete with details to help you plan your visit.
1. Prospect Park
Located in Brooklyn, Prospect Park is a sprawling 585-acre oasis. Among its lush landscapes, you’ll find the picturesque Prospect Park Waterfall. This lovely cascade feeds into the serene Lake Prospect, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation.
Address: 95 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Contact: (718) 965-8951
Website: prospectpark.org
2. Inwood Hill Park
Just north of Manhattan, Inwood Hill Park is renowned for its natural woodlands and the historic Spuyten Duyvil Creek. The park features a charming waterfall that enhances its rugged beauty, creating a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Address: 218th St & Indian Rd, New York, NY 10034
Contact: (212) 639-9675
Website: nycgovparks.org/parks/inwood-hill-park
3. Van Cortlandt Park
Situated in the Bronx, Van Cortlandt Park offers a wide array of recreational activities. Here, the Van Cortlandt Park Waterfall cascades down boulders, surrounded by a dense canopy of trees, providing a scenic backdrop for walkers and joggers alike.
Address: 662 Van Cortlandt Park S, Bronx, NY 10471
Contact: (718) 548-0912
Website: nycgovparks.org/parks/van-cortlandt-park
4. Central Park
No list would be complete without mentioning Central Park. The park boasts several smaller waterfalls, the most notable being the Hiding Place at the Northern end. These cascades remain somewhat hidden, offering a tranquil experience amidst the park’s vibrant surroundings.
Address: New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 310-6600
Website: centralparknyc.org
5. Fort Tryon Park
Overlooking the Hudson River in Upper Manhattan, Fort Tryon Park is a verdant retreat adorned with beautiful gardens. The park’s waterfall, located in the Heather Garden, flows gracefully and is an excellent location for photography enthusiasts.
Address: 190 Fort Washington Ave, New York, NY 10040
Contact: (212) 795-1388
Website: nycgovparks.org/parks/fort-tryon-park
6. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
This unique park in Queens is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. While primarily known for its extensive wetlands and birdlife, Jamaica Bay also features smaller waterfalls that punctuate its tranquil landscapes, enticing nature aficionados with their serene ambiance.
Address: 175-10 Cross Bay Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11414
Contact: (718) 318-4340
Website: nps.gov/gate/planyourvisit/jamaica-bay-wildlife-refuge.htm
7. Staten Island Greenbelt
This expansive natural area on Staten Island combines woodland, wetlands, and a series of streams and waterfalls. The cascading water offers a majestic sight, especially after rainfall, making the Greenbelt an inspiring place for outdoor enthusiasts interested in hiking and nature spotting.
Address: 2005 Richmond Rd, Staten Island, NY 10306
Contact: (718) 667-2165
Website: sigreenspace.org
8. Riverside Park
Riverside Park on the Upper West Side is known for its scenic paths along the Hudson River. The park features several charming waterfalls, especially near the 72nd Street Entrance, creating alluring spots for contemplation and leisure.
Address: Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 348-8260
Website: nycgovparks.org/parks/riverside-park
9. Pelham Bay Park
New York City’s largest park, Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx, is rich in natural beauty. The park features refreshing waterfalls amid serene woodlands, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking by the water’s edge.
Address: 555 City Island Rd, Bronx, NY 10464
Contact: (718) 885-2275
Website: nycgovparks.org/parks/pelham-bay-park
10. Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Flushing Meadows Corona Park, famed for its iconic Unisphere, also has its share of captivating waterfalls. The park’s Watercourse provides a delightful retreat adorned with beautiful gardens, making it a popular destination for families and visitors alike.
Address: 11101 Corona Ave, Queens, NY 11368
Contact: (718) 760-6565
Website: nycgovparks.org/parks/flushing-meadows-corona-park
Exploring these parks with waterfalls provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, right in the heart of New York City’s vibrant neighborhoods. Each park offers a distinctive experience, inviting visitors to soak up the tranquility and beauty that these cascading waters provide. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat, a place for recreation, or simply a scenic vista, these destinations will enhance your exploration of the city’s natural treasures.
