High Line

The basics

Stretching over the formerly industrial west side of Lower Manhattan, the lengthy public park serves as an escape hatch for New Yorkers who want to rise above the hubbub at street level and is a must-see for out-of-towners for its Hudson River views, ample greenery, artisanal food stands, public art, and some of the best people-watching perches in town.

Millions of visitors stroll across this 1.45-mile (2.33-kilometer) linear park every year. Many explore at their own leisure, while others come as part of group or private tours, which typically also visit surrounding areas such as the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and Greenwich Village.

Having a tour guide in tow means you can find out about the evolution of the area and the development of the park. Free guided tours are led by Friends of the High Line docents. These volunteers offer an insider's perspective on the park's history, design, and landscape.

Things to know before you go

• High Line tickets are not required. It's a public space, and free to enter.

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

• The High Line is wheelchair accessible. Elevators are at Gansevoort, 14th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th Streets, and there's ramp access at 34th Street.

How to get there

The High Line park snakes from Gansevoort Street to West 34th Street, between 10th Avenue and 12th Avenues on Manhattan's west side. In addition to the elevator and ramp access points, there is also stairway access at 18th, 20th, 26th, 28th, and 30th Streets, and at 11th Avenue. Take the subway to 14th Street and Eighth Avenue (L, A, C, and E trains), 23rd Street and 8th Avenue (C and E), 14th Street and Seventh Avenue (1, 2, and 3), 18th Street and Seventh Avenue (1), 23rd Street and Seventh Avenue (1), Penn Station (A, C, E, 1, 2, and 3) or 34th Street–Hudson Yards (7).

When to get there

The High Line is open from morning to evening, keeping earlier hours in the winter and staying open late in the summer. Get there first thing in the morning to experience the walkway in relative peace. Summer afternoons are prime sunbathing time, while summer evenings are ideal for couples, when the dipping sun casts the city in a romantic amber glow.

What to see and do at the High Line

The High Line is a hive of activity, particularly during the warm summer months when food vendors set up shop. The park also hosts special events such as live music performances, dance parties, spoken–word festivals, and stargazing sessions, as well as talks with guest speakers, interactive kid–friendly activities, and guided meditations. Throughout the year, the lofty park also hosts open–air art exhibitions, from large–scale installations to murals and sculptures.

How long does it take to walk the High Line?

The High Line is 1.45 miles (2.33 kilometers), and it takes about 30 minutes to walk it from end to end. However, visits can take longer—it's worth lingering on a bench to admire the views of the city, and stop to see artwork and greenery along the route.

Is the High Line worth it?

Yes, the High Line is worth it. The High Line is one of Manhattan's most popular recreational spaces, and its views are top-notch. This elevated park can attract crowds, so consider visiting earlier in the day for a calmer experience.

What do you do on a High Line tour?

Many guided High Line tours combine sightseeing with insider stories about the city's history. Some may stop at adjoining attractions like Chelsea Market or the Whitney Museum of American Art. And self-led tours include soaking in views as far as the Empire State Building and Central Park, admiring scenic viewpoints and forested areas, and visiting the park's food vendors.

Are there restrooms at the High Line?

Yes, there are public restrooms at four points along the High Line: at Gansevoort Street and Washington Street, 16th Street, 30th Street Southeast, and 31st Street and Dyer Avenue (High Line — Moynihan Connector). The bars and restaurants adjacent to the High Line also have bathrooms for customers.

Where is the best place to start the High Line?

There are numerous access points along the High Line, and no matter where you enter, you'll be met with top-notch views and scenic highlights. If you'd like to walk the entire length, begin at either its southernmost entrance at Gansevoort Street or its northernmost point at 34th Street.

What is the best day to visit the High Line?

The High Line is a popular attraction, and that can mean significant crowds—particularly in summer and on weekends and holidays. For a calmer experience, visit on a weekday; mornings and evenings are typically the quietest. Try to visit on a good-weather day to make the most of the park.

Ways to explore

Plan a couple of hours to leisurely explore the High Line, which runs 1.45 miles (2.33 kilometers) from 34th Street down to Gansevoort Street. Since opening in 2009, the High Line has served as a place to immerse yourself in nature in the middle of the city, but has also spawned a series of copycats from Chicago to Sydney and beyond.

Many visitors stroll the High Line at their own pace, or you can join a group or private tour. Tours typically include surrounding neighborhoods, including the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and Greenwich Village. Free guided tours led by Friends of the High Line docents are also available and cover the park’s history and design. Looking for picnic supplies? Take your pick from Chelsea Market’s stalls, before heading up to enjoy your delicacies on a High Line bench.

Accessibility

The High Line is wheelchair accessible via elevators at Gansevoort, 14th, 16th, 23rd, and 20th Streets, and ramp access at 34th Street. Check elevator status on the High Line website.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a picnic

What to wear

Layers, hat, sunglasses

Not allowed

Smoking, bikes, dogs, skateboards, scooters

Amenities

NYC Parks Wi-Fi hot spots, restrooms, seating areas

Address

There are several entrances to the High Line along its 1.45-mile(2.33 kilometer) route, and the subway is the best way to reach each of them. You can also travel by Citi Bike, taxi, rideshare, or driving, though keep in mind that traffic in lower Manhattan is dense and parking is limited.

Driving

Driving in lower Manhattan is almost always inadvisable; whenever possible, use the subway, taxis, bikes, or rideshares. To drive to the High Line, pick an entry point such as 34th Street at the northern end or Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District. Drivers may have luck with on-street parking or can pay for a parking garage at locations such as iPark Hudson Yards on 30th Street.

Public transportation

There are many options to reach the High Line by subway: A, C, E, or L train to 14th Street and 8th Avenue; C or E train to 23rd Street and 8th Avenue; A, C, E, 1, 2, or 3 train to Penn Station; or 7 train to 34th Street-Hudson Yards. From each station, continue on foot to the High Line.

Best times to visit

The High Line has seasonal hours, but is generally open all day. Early birds may enjoy the peace of the morning hours, while those looking for sunbathing opportunities may prefer summer afternoons. Sunset offers lovely views.

Best days to visit

Weekends are the busiest time at the High Line and can feel crowded. Between Monday and Thursday is typically quieter, although on sunny days it’s a very popular place for locals to have lunch—you may want to avoid lunch hour.

Best months to visit

The High Line has its charms year-round, but the spring bloom in April and May may be one of the most special times of year. The gardens stay blooming through the hot days of summer and have a unique beauty during the fall months, too.

Special events

In addition to docent-led tours, the High Line offers a range of fun events, such as artist talks, nighttime stargazing, and volunteer gardening sessions.