Okay, I’m over myself. Enough wallowing and worrying. It’s time to revel again in the joys of daily life in this marvelous city I call home.
Like having an hour and a half to kill with Mr TBTAM after dropping my daughter off at Pier 40 to see “Confidence Man“, a play stage-managed by her fave Middle School Social Studies teacher. Not enough time for a movie, so what were we to do? Go see the sunset from the High Line, thats what!
What’s the High Line, you ask?
Only the hippest and most wonderful new park in New York City, built along the old abandoned elevated freight rail line that runs near the Hudson River from the meatpacking district all the way up to 34th st and 11th Avenue. The High Line is testimony to what concerned citizens can accomplish when they come together with a purpose – in this case, to save the rail line from destruction by resurrecting it as an urban oasis.
The High Line’s design was inspired by the natural landscape that evolved over the years on the abandoned rail bed, and the design works. The place feels less a park and more like found nature in the middle of an urban cityscape.
Sunset is when the High Line is at it’s best. The setting sun and city lights add a magical glow, and the crowds have thinned enough that you can get a prime Hudson viewing spot on one of the broad lounges that line the lower half of the park.
But don’t just sit – stroll the entire park from bottom to top, going through and under buildings, past galleries, apartment buildings and warehouses. My fave part was walking the narrow Chelsea Grasslands, which brought back memories of summer days spent on the freight train tracks as a kid.
Don’t worry – the High Line is safe after sunset. A Parks Ranger told me there have been no incidents other than the occasional drunk. We saw lots of young professionals and couples, a few small parties, and even ran into my buddy Kathleen and her family in from Minnesota. Unfortunately, the Renegade Cabaret – one woman’s response to the instant audience created when the High Line opened within view of her fire escape – was quiet the night we visited.
History of the High Line – Narrated by Ethan Hawke
High Line Design Video – Cool!
Friends of the High Line – Your donation helps maintain the gardens on the High Line
I absolutely love Manhattan. There is no better city. I can't wait to experience the new park, and now I'm off to check out the links! thanx. Have an awesome day if it's as beautiful there as it is here.
Welcome back.
Yes, welcome back. I missed you.
Great post! I will be sure to stop by here next time in the city!
Welcome back, indeed!
That park looks SO cool!
Bella – hope you can visit the High Line soon. Thanks for reading.
#1 and RL – It's good to be back. Missed blogging for sure. It brings added joy.
Schrugglin' – don't forget to stop and see me too 🙂
Bardiac – it IS cool. No bikes, unfortunately……But you can lock 'em up downstairs..