New York City, although it undoubtedly has its merits, can be a very stressful place. For people like myself who get anxious in crowds of people, the last place you want to be are the crowded streets of Midtown Manhattan. But alas, Manhattan hosts too many exciting events for people living in or around New York to just sit back and pretend it doesn't exist.
Despite all of the stresses of the city, finding peace is not a hopeless cause. There are sights to see not too far from the center of the city. Drive 15 minutes to an hour, and there will be some options for you if you're sick of weaving around mobs of tourists just to have an enjoyable day.
Stretching across 4.5 miles of Manhattan, you can find this park simply by going down to 12th Avenue, regardless of what street you're on. Barring construction areas, you'll wind up bumping into a stretch of park spanning the Hudson River, perfect for spending some quality time by the water or surrounded by some gorgeous flowers, if the season's right.
Still within the confines of the city, this park is placed literally above the dreadful, busy streets. Constructed upon an old railroad site, it is now a park full of plant life and art, especially beautiful if you go during the spring when everything is in bloom. Regardless of the time, you'll feel powerful traversing the city through nature, all while the cars beneath you are honking and the people are suffering their 10th panic attack of the day.
3. Richard W. DeKorte Park in Lyndhurst, New Jersey
In addition to being a hub for renewable energy, with the entirety of the park and its corresponding centers run off of the solar panels that span the park, DeKorte is a great place to go for a stroll. The walking is not-at-all strenuous, and the park has both diverse wildlife and an excellent view of the city skyline.
4. Palisades Interstate Park in Alpine, New Jersey
Still with a killer view of the city, Palisades provides an actual hiking area directly adjacent to the Hudson River. Alongside some grand cliffs, it has some breathtaking views and walks, all while still providing a view of the city you love...just at a distance far, far away from its chaos.
5. Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah, New Jersey
Sick of the city so much that you want to avoid it entirely? Ramapo provides a hiking area with countless trails, all winding through a variety of different habitats and landmarks. (Yes, there are waterfalls, and yes, they're gorgeous.) Also, you will undoubtedly bump into as many dogs as people, as it is a very dog-friendly park (great for dog swimming in the warmer seasons).
