
East River Esplanade
4.6 (160)park
Tucked under the FDR Drive, this waterfront path offers views of Roosevelt Island and passing boats.
Description




The paved route stretches from 54th to 71st Street, serving as a shared corridor for runners, walkers, and cyclists. While the path offers wide views of the Queens and Brooklyn shorelines, it sits directly adjacent to the FDR, meaning highway noise is part of the experience. Benches provide spots to rest—often preferred on cooler or overcast days—with views of helicopters lifting off from a nearby heliport. The pathway remains well-lit after dark and features a dog park with separate areas for big and small dogs, with mid-route access at Andrew Haswell Green Park.
Selected reviews
Good to know
Lit at nightEntry near 60thDog park onsite
Also featured in
Manhattan at Play along the East RiverPaved Cycling Path · Outdoor Swimming · Shaded Picnic Tables
Ride a Cable Car Above the East River at SunsetAerial tramway glide · Open skyline vantage · Second Avenue terminal
River Walks And Skyline Views Under Queensboro BridgeGreenway esplanade · Shaded benches · Free entry