My Favorite Places to Run in NYC

New York City is one of the best running cities in the world. Whether you're training for a marathon, getting in a quick weekday run, or simply looking for a scenic route to explore the city, there are countless places to log miles across the five boroughs.

Here are some of my favorite places to run in NYC (in no particular order). Each offers something different, from iconic loops and waterfront views to unique landmarks you won't find anywhere else.

Central Park

What’s a list of NYC running spots without Central Park?

Central Park is arguably the most iconic place to run in the city, and for good reason. The park's famous 6-mile loop offers a mix of hills, straightaways, and scenic views while keeping runners away from vehicle traffic. It’s a favorite among both marathoners and recreational runners, especially on weekends when thousands of people take advantage of the park’s paths.

Beyond the main loop, Central Park has additional trails and paths that allow you to explore different sections of the park. Just keep an eye out for cyclists, especially on crowded days, since many of the same roads are shared by bikers.

Randall’s Island

Randall’s Island is one of NYC’s most underrated running destinations. The island provides a unique experience, including the opportunity to run underneath the Triborough Bridge (now named the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge) and the Metro-North railroad tracks.

The island is also home to Icahn Stadium and the FDNY Training Academy, adding interesting landmarks along the route. With wide paths, waterfront views, and fewer crowds than some of Manhattan’s more popular running spots, Randall’s Island is a great place to get in quality miles without the congestion.

Another advantage is its accessibility. The island can be reached from Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx, making it a convenient option for runners throughout the city.

Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island offers one of the most unique running experiences in NYC. The island features a roughly 4-mile loop that takes you around the entire perimeter, with incredible views of Manhattan’s East Side for half of the route.

Because there are fewer cars and less congestion compared to many Manhattan routes, Roosevelt Island provides a peaceful place to run while still feeling surrounded by the energy of the city. The footpath is accessible from Queens, making it an especially convenient destination for runners coming from that side of the city.

Astoria Park

Located along the East River in Queens, Astoria Park combines beautiful waterfront scenery with a runner-friendly route. The park provides sweeping views of Manhattan and is one of my favorite places to enjoy a scenic run without leaving Queens.

The road along the water is closed to vehicle traffic, creating a safe and enjoyable running path. The park is also home to New York City's largest public pool, making it a popular destination during the summer months. Whether you're looking for a shorter recovery run or adding miles along the waterfront, Astoria Park is a great option.

West Side Highway / Hudson River Greenway

For runners looking to put in uninterrupted miles, the West Side Highway and Hudson River Greenway are hard to beat. The route stretches along the Hudson River from Battery Park all the way to the George Washington Bridge, providing miles of continuous waterfront running.

Throughout the run, you get incredible views of the Hudson River, as well as Hoboken and Jersey City across the water. The path is also one of the best places in the city for long runs because you can cover a significant distance without having to stop for traffic lights or busy intersections.

Whether you're training for a marathon or just looking for a beautiful place to get outside, the Hudson River Greenway offers one of the best combinations of distance, scenery, and convenience in NYC.

These are just a few of my favorite places to run in New York City, but one of the best parts about running here is that there is always another route to discover. From parks and waterfront paths to bridges and hidden trails, NYC offers endless opportunities to explore the city one mile at a time.