Stretching over the formerly industrial west side of Lower Manhattan, the lengthy public park serves as an escape hatch for New Yorkers who want to rise above the hubbub at street level and is a must-see for out-of-towners for its Hudson River views, ample greenery, artisanal food stands, public art, and some of the best people-watching perches in town.
Millions of visitors stroll across this 1.45-mile (2.33-kilometer) linear park every year. Many explore at their own leisure, while others come as part of group or private tours, which typically also visit surrounding areas such as the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and Greenwich Village.
Having a tour guide in tow means you can find out about the evolution of the area and the development of the park. Free guided tours are led by Friends of the High Line docents. These volunteers offer an insider's perspective on the park's history, design, and landscape.
High Line tickets are not required. It's a public space, and free to enter.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
The High Line is wheelchair accessible. Elevators are at Gansevoort, 14th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th Streets, and there's ramp access at 34th Street.
The High Line park snakes from Gansevoort Street to West 34th Street, between 10th Avenue and 12th Avenues on Manhattan's west side. In addition to the elevator and ramp access points, there is also stairway access at 18th, 20th, 26th, 28th, and 30th Streets, and at 11th Avenue. Take the subway to 14th Street and Eighth Avenue (L, A, C, and E trains), 23rd Street and 8th Avenue (C and E), 14th Street and Seventh Avenue (1, 2, and 3), 18th Street and Seventh Avenue (1), 23rd Street and Seventh Avenue (1), Penn Station (A, C, E, 1, 2, and 3) or 34th Street–Hudson Yards (7).
The High Line is open from morning to evening, keeping earlier hours in the winter and staying open late in the summer. Get there first thing in the morning to experience the walkway in relative peace. Summer afternoons are prime sunbathing time, while summer evenings are ideal for couples, when the dipping sun casts the city in a romantic amber glow.
The High Line is a hive of activity, particularly during the warm summer months when food vendors set up shop. The park also hosts special events such as live music performances, dance parties, spoken–word festivals, and stargazing sessions, as well as talks with guest speakers, interactive kid–friendly activities, and guided meditations. Throughout the year, the lofty park also hosts open–air art exhibitions, from large–scale installations to murals and sculptures.
