Most running guides to New York City focus on the island of Manhattan. But New York City is composed of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island. All of them offer some great running options that are accessible via public transportation. In this guide, we focus on the top 3–4 routes in each of the boroughs except Manhattan, which has its own guide. There’s also information on how to get to the routes and suggested areas to stay.
Guide to Running in NYC Boroughs
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Other Routes in New York City: Manhattan
Our guide to the other New York City Boroughs: Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Nearly 20 additional routes featuring parks, waterside runs, and other major attractions. Most accessible via public transport.
An iconic urban run and certainly an oasis in Manhattan. Numerous options: 7 mile perimeter path, reservoir route with great skyscraper views, woodsy sections, grand allées.
One of the great runs anywhere, with paths, piers, & parks along the Hudson River on Manhattan's west side stretching for 12 miles from Lower Manhattan to the George Washington Bridge. Iconic views of the river, the New Jersey skyline, & Freedom Tower.
Part of Manhattan's extensive waterfront greenway system, this spectacular path runs along the East River between Battery Park & 125th St., with a ~1 mile gap around the U.N. Great water & skyline views. Can wrap around to West side @Battery Park.
Get up early to run the High Line! This popular 1.5 mile walkway elevated above the streets on Manhattan’s West Side features great views of the river & skyline, landscaping, and public art. Add on with Hudson River Greenway.
Incorporating one New York’s iconic bridges is an integral part of the running experience in New York City. Brooklyn Bridge is a ‘must do’. This nearly 4-mile run features the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges.
Great running alternatives at the northern end of the Hudson River Greenway: Fort Tyron Park's 8 miles of paths and killer stairs, and Inwood Hill Park's wooded trails. And it IS possible to run over the George Washington Bridge!
A fabulous run with water and skyline views. It’s about 4 miles around the perimeter, with parks on each end. To access the island by foot you have to cross the Queensboro Bridge. Or, access via tram or subway.
A great destination for running, accessed via Manhattan, the Bronx, & Queens. 10 miles of trails passing 330 acres of parkland and 60+ athletic fields. There are several marked running loops and a running track at Icahn Stadium.
A running treat via a 10-minute ferry from Manhattan or Brooklyn. This car-free island has several miles of trails. There are great skyline views from the 2.1 mile perimeter road, a fort, and fun hills in the interior.
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