When I first heard about the High Line from a friend, I was intrigued, even more so after looking it up online and seeing the photos. My last visit to New York had been sometime in the 90s, and back then it was just a derelict train line. I was curious to see what the city had made out of this old stretch of track.
We started our walk from the Times Square and made our way all the way to the Hudson Yards, where we accessed the High Line at the corner of 10th Avenue and West 30th Street. Perched above this entrance was a huge dove, a sight that was both strange and beautiful. We had passed other stairways along the way, but their gates were locked. No explanation was given, so I cannot tell you which access point is truly the best. Still, the dove felt like an auspicious place to begin.
access to The High Line @NYC
It was impressive right from the start, so green with places to sit and plenty of space to walk. The High Line is surrounded by tall buildings, which is no surprise in the heart of Manhattan. This was the view to the right of our access point, but we did not head that way. Instead, we turned left toward Little Island.
first impression @The High Line
There were plenty of people clearly enchanted by the flora on the High Line, and I was no different. The huge flowers on the tree below were absolutely astonishing.
turning left @The High Line
The main path was shady and easy to walk along. I believe there are some access points with elevators, making it possible to come up here with a wheelchair or a stroller.
easily navigable for everyone @The High Line
What I enjoyed most along the High Line was the different view of the city. Seeing it from a slightly higher vantage point gives you a completely new perspective.
the city from a new perspective @NYC
Empire State building and a billboard @The High Line
another billboard and a mural @The High Line
The mural above of Mother Teresa and Gandhi was not the only one we saw while walking along the High Line. Some were right next to the path, while others I only caught a glimpse of from afar.
a glimpse of Andy Warhol @High Line
There are coffee and ice cream stalls for when you need to refuel or simply want to sit and enjoy the stillness above the bustle of Manhattan.
time for coffee @The High Line
Walking the High Line was an absolute pleasure. Seeing all kinds of buildings up close made me appreciate architecture a little more. Toward the end of the walk, the buildings became sleeker looking and more modern.
coming to the end of the line @The High Line
The High Line ends between Pier 57, which is now apparently a Market Hall, and Pier 55, better known as Little Island. I assume the wooden posts in the water are the remains of the former Pier 57. But maybe I am totally wrong here.
Market Hall @Pier 57
Since we were not looking for anything to eat, we bypassed the food hall and went on to explore Little Island.
Little Island @NYC
The island can be reached from either side by a bridge.
crossing over @Little Island
Once on the island, it feels very much like a park and is far less spectacular than its striking appearance from the river might suggest. There is an outdoor concert and theater area that reminded me of the amphitheaters in Greece, only in a modern version.
theater @Little Island
The walkways are easily accessible for everyone, and cloth shades have been stretched across the community area to provide protection from the sun.
relaxation area @Little Island
The second bridge on the island features a crossover that offers another chance to marvel at the island’s construction. The individual pods have a distinctly futuristic feel, and I loved how they have been combined into a single structure. It is a bit like a honeycomb. Yours, Pollybert
admiring the pods from up close @Little Island
