Many New Yorkers are consumed with dread when trudging around midtown, yet it always looks so beautiful from a distance. Thankfully, the East River State Park in Williamsburg is one way to enjoy that iconic skyline without setting foot in Manhattan. This welcoming green space boasts many qualities: clean, spacious, ideal for picnics, family friendly, and if it didn't sadly close at dusk, it would be a romantic place to watch the sunset. Be prepared on sunny days as there's little in the way of shade and watch out for the occasional (adorable) waterfowl coming ashore. It's also perfect for out-of-town guests, allowing them to see a picturesque snapshot of the city without you guiding them through 42nd Street. The free outdoor concerts formerly at
McCarren Park Pool now take place here, which means the park is overrun on those days, but it's still a delightful place to escape the grind.
