New York City is well known for its iconic skyline, food, and entertainment, but what about its national parks? Home to some of America’s most iconic and awe-inspiring national parks, New York City has no shortage of natural beauty and outdoor activities for visitors and locals alike. From the striking green expanse of Central Park to the bustling harbor views of Governors Island, there’s plenty of natural beauty to explore in and around the city. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the most important national park sites in New York City.
What are the National Parks in New York City?
National parks in New York City are federally-designated natural or historical sites that are regulated and managed by the National Park Service (NPS). These parks are chosen for their significance to our nation’s history or natural beauty. In New York City, there are six national parks, including:
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Gateway National Recreation Area
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Statue of Liberty National Monument
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Ellis Island National Monument
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Castle Clinton National Monument
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Federal Hall National Memorial
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African Burial Ground National Monument
In addition to national parks, there are also two national heritage areas located in New York City, including:
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Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area
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Newark Bay-Hudson River National Heritage Area
Overview of National Parks Sites in New York City
Gateway National Recreation Area
Gateway National Recreation Area spans more than 26,000 acres and is one of the largest urban national parks in the United States. It’s located in the Jamaica Bay area, not far from Manhattan and Brooklyn and is made up of 11 separate sites, including 3 beaches, 2 marinas, and 9 historic structures. Gateway is an urban oasis near the big city and a great place to explore unique saltwater tidelands and marshes, enjoy beautiful wildlife and stunning views of New York City.
Statue of Liberty National Monument
The Statue of Liberty has become one of the most recognizable symbols of America’s ideals of freedom, justice and democracy and is a popular New York attraction. The Statue of Liberty National Monument is an iconic landmark located in the middle of New York Harbor and it encompasses all of Liberty Island, Bedloe’s Island, and surrounding areas. The grounds of the monument are home to breathtaking views and some of America’s most iconic sculptures, including the 100-foot tall Statue of Liberty.
Ellis Island National Monument
Located not far from the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island was the port of entry for an estimated 12 million immigrants to America between 1892 and 1954. Visitors can explore the grounds of Ellis Island to see some of the original buildings and get a glimpse into America’s rich immigration history. The Ellis Island museum features interactive displays and artifacts and the grounds also feature two beautiful gardens and several monuments.
Castle Clinton National Monument
Castle Clinton National Monument is a circular stone fort that was originally built to defend New York City from a British invasion in the War of 1812 and later served as an immigration station from 1855 until 1890. The castle is now a National Monument and visitors can explore the underground fort and learn about its history. The grounds of Castle Clinton also feature a ticketing center and a small museum that visitors can explore.
Federal Hall National Memorial
Located in Lower Manhattan, Federal Hall National Memorial is a popular tourist attraction and the site of George Washington’s inauguration and the first session of the United States Congress. The memorial is located on the same spot as the original Federal Hall, and visitors can explore the historic building, learn about the nation’s early government, and see Washington’s inaugural speech displayed in the main hall.
African Burial Ground National Monument
The African Burial Ground National Monument is a historic site located near lower Manhattan and is the oldest and largest burial site in America for people of African descent. The site was discovered in 1991 and includes the remains of more than 400 African Americans buried between the 17th and 19th centuries. African Burial Ground National Monument is a somber reminder of our nation’s history and a powerful tribute to the African Americans who persevered in the face of adversity.
Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area
The Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area extends from Albany to New York City and encompasses a wide variety of natural and cultural attractions. It is the largest National Heritage Area in the country, covering over 12 million acres. The valley contains 8 national parks, 45 state parks and many iconic cities and landscapes, with stunning views of the Hudson River. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and biking and explore unique historical attractions, including the Rockefeller Estate and Kykuit.
Newark Bay-Hudson River National Heritage Area
The Newark Bay-Hudson River National Heritage Area is located in the northern part of New Jersey and features a variety of unique and lush landscapes. This area includes over 2.5 million acres and includes rivers, wetlands, forests and unique habitats. The heritage area is home to numerous parks and historic sites, including Kearny Marsh Wildlife Management Area and Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, and is a great place to explore NJ’s natural beauty.
New York City is home to some of the most iconic national parks in the country. From the awe-inspiring Statue of Liberty National Monument to the vast expanses of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, visitors can explore the city’s natural beauty and learn about our nation’s story. We hope this overview of important national parks sites in New York City has inspired you to get out and explore!
