(Photos by Fred Rose)

New York City is often considered a concrete jungle, herding humans and sprouting skyscrapers through its densely overgrown streets.  Yet approximately one-quarter of the city is occupied by public parks, playgrounds and nature preserves.  The grande dame, of course, is Central Park.  But there’s a new kid in town who grows bigger every year and demands your attention.

The Hudson River Park is the largest park to undergo construction in Manhattan since Central Park.  It spans 550 acres along the west side of Manhattan, between Battery Place and 59th Street.  Since its establishment in 1998, the park has unveiled new piers, playgrounds and facilities every year.  This week, Piers 62 and 63 have officially opened to reveal 9 fresh acres of gardens, lawns and a newly designed skate park in Chelsea.  From sun worshiper to thrill seeker, there is something for everyone.

If you are craving a little relaxation, the lawns and piers provide beautiful views of the Hudson River by which to sunbathe and picnic.  For the more active visitor, Hudson River Park offers an amazing variety of sports activities.  Bicycling, running, kayaking and sailing are but a few.  And if you lean toward more extreme sports, a visit to the skate park or trapeze school will send your heart soaring, quite literally.

So whether you are king of the jungle or a lazy house cat, explore the Hudson River Park this summer.  And do the outdoors—NYC style!

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