The 6 Best Running Routes in New York City

While New York City is undoubtedly the USA's most thrilling city, it may not initially seem like the ideal spot for perfect running routes for fitness enthusiasts. But don’t worry, running aficionados; the Big Apple offers fantastic paths to boost your heart rate and elevate your mood, from riverside jogs and park trails to breathtaking runs over bridges with iconic views. If you prefer a leisurely pace, you can enjoy these routes walking, or consider a scenic stroll from the northern tip to the southern tip of Manhattan.

Here are our six favorite running routes in NYC.

1. Cross the Brooklyn Bridge

Ideal for stunning views of the Lower Manhattan skyline

This run can be described as 'short yet stunning.' Begin along the Brooklyn waterfront: the revamped piers have become attractions themselves, but the true highlights are the Wall Street skyscrapers that capture your gaze across the East River (and don't forget to glance left for a view of the Statue of Liberty—more on her later).

Starting from Pier 1 (beware of the tricky street layout!), follow Old Fulton St and Prospect St, then take the somewhat hidden stairs in the underpass to access the city’s most famous bridge. If the run hasn’t taken your breath away, the sight of Lower Manhattan framed by the Brooklyn Bridge’s support cables certainly will. The promenade leads you across the bridge, finishing at City Hall Park, adjacent to the subway station.

Start/finish: Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 1 ferry stop/City Hall subway station Distance: 2.5 miles (more if you explore the Brooklyn Bridge Park piers) Best times: Sunrise or sunset for stunning lighting and fewer crowds (the Brooklyn Bridge Promenade can get quite crowded) Be cautious of: The not-so-obvious access point to the bridge from Anchorage Plaza, and cyclists on the bridge – keep clear of their path.

The loop around Central Park's Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is a favorite among New York runners. Getty Images

2. Central Park: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir Loop

Best for experiencing a classic run with locals

Manhattan compensates for its limited green spaces with one of the most renowned parks in the world: Central Park. Within its boundaries, the loop around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is a popular choice among New York runners.

The route is simple: jog counterclockwise along the flat path that encircles the reservoir (once a vital water source for the city until it was decommissioned in 1993), relishing the tree cover and views of the luxurious apartments lining the park and the Midtown skyline. Repeat as desired.

Start/finish: 86 St subway station (A, B, C lines) Distance: 2 miles (add more laps for extra distance) Best time: Any time Be mindful of: Crowds of joggers – it's a very popular route.

The array of running paths in Central Park is as vast as your imagination. Getty Images

3. Central Park: The Complete Experience

Best for enjoying fresh air and iconic landmarks

If the Reservoir Loop has sparked your interest in exploring more of Central Park, you'll find plenty of options. A full loop starting at the southeast corner roughly traces the park's eastern edge, showcasing famous attractions like the Central Park Zoo, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the reservoir, before leading you into the much more tranquil northern section.

Venture west and then south, passing the reservoir once more to reach the almost-rural Ramble; you'll encounter another water feature, the Lake; Strawberry Fields (a tribute to John Lennon, who was shot nearby); and the Bethesda Fountain (often mistaken for the one featured in the opening credits of Friends), before concluding at the Columbus statue just outside the southwest corner. And don't worry, there are plenty of drinking fountains around Central Park to keep you refreshed.

Start/finish: 5 Ave subway station (N, R, W lines)/59 St–Columbus Circle subway station (A, B, C, D lines) Distance: as far as you can run (the basic loop is about 6 miles) When: During daylight hours Watch out for: Maps – it's surprisingly easy to lose your way in this 843-acre park.

The High Line offers a fantastic starting point for a route that leads to a view of Lady Liberty. Getty Images

4. West Side to Lower Manhattan

Best for views of Lady Liberty

The story of Manhattan's west side over the past 20 years is one of revitalization, and this straightforward route highlights some of its best features.

Begin your run on the High Line: a repurposed railway turned park, it's one of the city's great recent successes. Jog above the bustling streets and through ongoing renovations until you reach the steps down. Turn right, pass the Whitney Museum of American Art, and carefully cross the busy West Street to access the Hudson River Park. From there, head south all the way, with the towering One World Trade Center in sight.

Leave the past behind as you approach a true symbol of the city – the Statue of Liberty, visible from Battery Park. A sprint to the finish takes you by the nearly-as-iconic Staten Island Ferry and the subway station.

Start/finish: 34 St–Hudson Yards subway station (7 line)/South Ferry subway station (1 line) Distance: 5 miles When: Early morning to avoid crowds on the High Line (it opens at 7am) or during sunset Watch out for: High Line crowds.

The loop around Roosevelt Island offers unique vistas. Matt Dutile/Getty Images

5. Roosevelt Island Loop

Best for a peaceful run and striking views (plus the cool tramway).

For a truly unique NYC experience, Roosevelt Island is unbeatable. Nestled in the East River, you can reach it via an aerial tramway, setting the stage for an enjoyable run.

A path runs along almost the entire perimeter of the island—formerly home to multiple hospitals, now a serene residential area—sweeping beneath the Queensboro Bridge and showcasing stunning views of Midtown. Make your way to the lighthouse at the northern end before circling back to your starting point.

Start/finish: Take the tram from Tramway Plaza East 59 St (or the Roosevelt Island subway station; F line) Distance: 4 miles When: Any time Watch out for: Getting sidetracked by the views

Pause at Riverside Park's 91st St Garden to appreciate the beautiful flowers. Ann Douglas Lott/Dinogo Planet

6. Riverside Park to Washington Heights

Ideal for lush greenery and local culture

Starting at West 72 St and extending all the way to the northern tip of Manhattan, the Hudson River Greenway offers a delightful waterside path for runners. As you make your way through Riverside Park and Washington Heights, you'll encounter various landmarks, including a fort and a lighthouse, alongside playgrounds and recreational areas loved by locals. The route culminates nicely at the Met Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art dedicated to medieval European art.

Start/finish: 72 St–Broadway subway station (1, 2, 3 lines)/wherever you choose (potentially 190 St subway station) Distance: Who's really counting? (if you must, it's about 7 miles from East 72 St to the Cloisters) When: Anytime Watch out for: Certain sections are adjacent to busy roadways