8 Iconic Places to Run in NYC That Aren’t Central Park

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Subway 1 to South Ferry, about 30 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 5.4 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

You’ll be in the company of fellow runners, cyclists and throngs of tourists if you choose to run at Manhattan’s southern tip. Begin your run by the Staten Island Ferry, then head south where you’ll see the Statue of Liberty across the water. Continue up the Battery Park City Esplanade where you’ll pass by public art, such as “Ape and Cat at a Dance,” and the Waterfront Plaza at Brookfield Place.

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Nutrition - Weight Loss
Distance: 2.9 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

Wake up early to get a good workout running across this architectural icon. Going west, you’ll see the metallic hues of Manhattan. Watch the skyscrapers sparkle as the sun sets during that magic hour. Heading east, you’ll see the landmark Watchtower sign as Brooklyn gradually swallows you whole.

RELATED: Westend61 / Getty

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Subways A or C to High Street, or subways 2 or 3 to Borough Hall, about 35 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 1.8 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

If you want to skip the vertigo, go for a jog by the East River. The outskirts of the park are undergoing an exciting facelift which will include more flora. For now, take in Manhattan’s skyline and head north for a ring around Jane’s Carousel. Loop back along Water Street for a post-run burger at Shake Shack, which is conveniently right by the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory.

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Dakotah Popehn Is 17th at the NYC Marathon
Distance: 6.1 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

Wide paths of the Hudson River Greenway in Riverside Park are idyllic for the Speedy Gonzalezes. Get in a stair workout north of the park at 125th. On your way back, pass through Grant’s Tomb where you’ll see “The Rolling Bench,” a mosaic public art project built by neighborhood children. Finish your run with a Zabar’s sandwich or six-ounce oatmeal raisin cookie from Levain Bakery, one of my favorite hangouts.

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Des Linden Finishes 11th at New York City Marathon
Distance: 3.0 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

“Van Cortlandt is a world renowned cross country course and close to New Yorkers’ hearts,” says Bobby Asher, team captain of the We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back and co-director of the Riverdale Run. The park hosts high school meets and cross country championships, making it the proverbial starting line for elite runners. Pause beside the tortoise and hare statue to complete your pilgrimage. After surging down the Van Cortlandt paths, grab a slice at Broadway Joe’s Pizza or treat yourself at Lloyd’s Carrot Cake.

RELATED: Subway PATH to Hoboken, about 30 minutes from Midtown.

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Subway 1 to South Ferry, about 30 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 5.0 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

Also known as Riegelmann Boardwalk, this landmark is a picturesque seaside run with the crashing waves of Brighton Beach on one side, and Brooklyn’s Little Odessa (or Little Russia) on the other. Be mindful of your footing, as you may hit a few snags from the protruding nails and uneven planks. Going west, you’ll hear seals barking inside the aquarium, and then shrieks from riders on the Coney Island Cyclone. At the far end of the boardwalk, head back to Luna Park for a Nathan’s Famous hot dog—this is where the famous hot dog eating contest happens, every July 4.

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Subways A or C to High Street, or subways 2 or 3 to Borough Hall, about 35 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 4.2 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

Step off the subway and marvel at Citi Field. Now loosen your legs as you jog down the boardwalk to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, home of Arthur Ashe Stadium (for you tennis lovers out there), Queens Museum, and the New York State Pavilion. After encircling the Unisphere, take a circuit around Meadow Lake. Make sure you lather up with SPF, CA Notice at Collection.

since the path offers plenty of sunshine: Subway PATH to Hoboken, about 30 minutes from Midtown
Distance: 2.3 miles
Nutrition - Weight Loss

Okay, so it’s not New York City, but you would be remiss not to take advantage of New Jersey’s running terrain. Dan Atkinson, store manager of the and co-director of the, describes the waterfront as largely just pedestrian-owned and “conducive to keeping your pace.” A little island called Sinatra Park is also a nice diversion from the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. Atkinson recommends Bean Vault for an after-run coffee, a hole-in-the-wall independent coffee shop that used to be a bank. 8th Street Tavern, with its seasonal craft beers is also worth a stop if you’re looking for a different postrun refresher.