The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in New York

New York is not just skyscrapers and crowded streets. The city has an outdoor side that changes with the seasons: in spring and summer, the parks come alive, in autumn the trees turn spectacular colours and in winter the snow turns the city into a movie set. From iconic parks to out-of-town excursions, here are some ideas for enjoying New York beyond its buildings.

No trip to New York is complete without a stop in Central Park. This green lung of the city offers plenty of outdoor activities: you can rent a bike, paddle in its lake, have a picnic or simply stroll along its paths surrounded by trees, bridges and sculptures.

In autumn, the park is dressed in gold and reddish colours, while in winter it is transformed by its famous ice-skating rink. Whatever the time of year, it's the perfect oasis to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan without leaving the city.

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a natural setting, the New York Botanical Garden is a must-see. This huge space is home to more than a million plants and offers trails surrounded by flowers, ponds and forests.

In spring, the cherry blossoms create a spectacular landscape, while in autumn the warm tones of the foliage make it one of the most photogenic places in the city. It is an ideal destination for a relaxing stroll among the biodiversity of the region.

For thrill-seekers looking for a day of pure fun, Nickelodeon Universe is the perfect choice. This theme park, located in the American Dream Mall, offers rides for all ages inspired by characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and the Ninja Turtles.

With roller coasters, live shows and interactive areas, it's an ideal plan for both families with children and adults who want to relive their childhood with a dose of adrenaline.

If outdoor shopping is the perfect plan for you, the Woodbury Commons Outlets are a must-see. Located on the outskirts of New York City, this open-air complex features more than 200 shops of luxury brands and well-known designers at irresistible discounts.

Strolling along its wide shopping streets, with views of the mountains, makes this a different experience for those looking to combine shopping with a relaxing stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Just a few hours from New York, Boston is a city with a wealth of history and a vibrant student atmosphere. On this tour, you can walk the Freedom Trail, visit the harbour where the Tea Mutiny took place and explore Faneuil Hall, a key site in America's independence.

The tour also includes a visit to Harvard, the country's most prestigious university, where you can walk around its iconic campus and feel like a student for a day.

For those who want to immerse themselves in American history, a trip to Washington D.C. is one of the best options from New York. In a single day, you can tour the White House, the Capitol and monuments dedicated to key figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King.

The National Mall, with its ample greenery and open spaces, is ideal for strolling while discovering the capital's most iconic landmarks. In addition, the combination of monumental architecture and nature makes this tour a balanced experience between culture and the great outdoors.

If you want to make the most of your escape from New York, this tour takes you to Philadelphia and Washington in one day. You'll start your tour in the city of brotherly love, where you'll see the Liberty Bell and climb the famous Rocky steps.

Then it's on to Washington for a tour of monuments and historic buildings, including the White House and the Capitol. A perfect combination for those who want to get to know two key cities in the history of the United States without wasting too much time.

Just a few hours from New York, Niagara Falls offers a natural spectacle that is unique in the world. The force of the water falling from 50 metres high can be experienced from various vantage points or aboard the famous Maid of the Mist boat, which takes you to the base of the falls for an unforgettable experience.

The state park surrounding the falls is also ideal for hikes with breathtaking views. A perfect trip for those seeking a connection with nature after the endless energy of New York.