Perimeter of Manhattan: Discover the Scenic Loop Around the Island

Manhattan, one of the five boroughs of New York City, is surrounded by water and offers a unique opportunity for exploration along its shoreline. This exploration is popularly celebrated through an event known as "The Great Saunter," which covers the entire perimeter of Manhattan.

The Great Saunter

The Great Saunter is an annual 32-mile walk around the island of Manhattan, organized by the non-profit group Shorewalkers. The event aims to promote awareness and conservation of Manhattan's coastline. The walk follows the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, a nearly continuous path along the island's edge.

Route Description

• Starts at Fraunces Tavern in Lower Manhattan
• Proceeds north along the Hudson River
• Reaches the halfway point at Inwood Hill Park
• Continues south along the Harlem River
• Returns along the East River back to the starting point

Participants enjoy diverse views of landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, various New York City bridges, and historic waterfront sites.

Historical Context

The Great Saunter was first held in 1982 to raise awareness for the preservation of Manhattan’s waterfront. Over the decades, the path has transformed from neglected and unsafe areas to a series of parks and promenades, thanks to conservation efforts.

Event Details

Preparation Tips

1. Train by gradually increasing your walking distance.
2. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for long-distance walking.
3. Bring a water bottle and snacks, as supplies along the route may be limited.
4. Consider carrying a portable battery pack for your mobile device.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, walking the perimeter of Manhattan offers a unique perspective of New York City’s dynamic waterfront and urban landscape.

The perimeter of Manhattan is a fascinating journey that offers a unique perspective of the island. This route, often associated with events like the Great Saunter, takes you through a diverse array of landscapes, historical sites, and modern marvels. Starting from the historic Fraunces Tavern, walkers and runners experience the scenic Hudson River Greenway, the vibrant East River paths, and the serene Inwood Hill Park. This perimeter walk showcases Manhattan's transformation from industrial waterfronts to lush parks and continuous walkways, providing an immersive experience of New York City's rich history and dynamic urban environment.

Manhattan is rich with historical and cultural sites that reflect its diverse and dynamic history. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the past and showcase the city's architectural, artistic, and cultural heritage.

• Central Park: An iconic urban park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, Central Park is a vast 843-acre oasis offering scenic landscapes, recreational facilities, and cultural events.
• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: These symbols of freedom and immigration are must-visit landmarks. The Statue of Liberty represents hope and democracy, while Ellis Island serves as a museum detailing the experiences of millions of immigrants who passed through its halls.
• Trinity Church: Located at the intersection of Wall Street and Broadway, this historic church is known for its Gothic Revival architecture and its cemetery, where notable figures like Alexander Hamilton are buried.
• National September 11 Memorial & Museum: A poignant tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks, the memorial features two reflecting pools with waterfalls and the museum houses artifacts and exhibits related to the tragic events.
• Brooklyn Bridge: Connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, this historic suspension bridge offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for photography and leisurely walks.
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Known as The Met, this expansive museum on Fifth Avenue houses over 2 million works of art spanning 5,000 years, including pieces by renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
• Tenement Museum: This unique museum on the Lower East Side offers guided tours of restored tenement buildings, providing insights into the lives of immigrant families who lived there in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The perimeter of Manhattan offers a diverse array of recreational activities for both residents and visitors. From water sports to cultural events, there is something for everyone along the island's edge.

• Boating and Kayaking: Enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking or sailing in designated areas along the Hudson and East Rivers, providing a unique perspective of the city from the water.
• Photography and Bird Watching: The diverse ecosystems along Manhattan's perimeter are perfect for photographers and bird watchers, offering a chance to capture stunning views and observe a variety of bird species.
• Outdoor Classes: Many riverside parks host yoga, tai chi, and fitness classes, offering a refreshing way to exercise while enjoying the scenic views of the waterfront.
• Picnicking: Numerous parks and green spaces provide picnic areas where families and friends can gather to enjoy meals with picturesque views of the city and rivers.
• Cycling: The Manhattan Waterfront Greenway offers a continuous 32-mile route for cyclists, providing an enjoyable and scenic ride around the entire island.
• The Great Saunter: An annual 32-mile walk around Manhattan’s perimeter, promoting community spirit and physical wellness. This event attracts walkers of all ages and fitness levels, creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere.

These activities highlight the dynamic and vibrant nature of Manhattan's perimeter, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and community engagement.

Exploring the perimeter of Manhattan by bike is an exhilarating experience that offers a unique perspective of the city. The Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, a continuous 31-mile route, provides cyclists with stunning views and a mostly car-free environment. This scenic route circumnavigates the entire island, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

• Starting Point: Begin your journey at Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan. This historic area provides a picturesque backdrop to start your ride.
• Hudson River Greenway: Cycle along the west side on the Hudson River Greenway, the longest segment of the route, offering beautiful riverside views and access to various parks.
• Midtown Detours: In Midtown, from 34th to 83rd Streets, cyclists must navigate city streets around the United Nations Headquarters due to gaps in the greenway.
• East River Greenway: Continue along the East River Greenway, where you'll ride past the East River, historical sites, and numerous recreational areas.
• Harlem River Greenway: The route then connects to the Harlem River Greenway, a shorter segment that runs through northern Manhattan and offers a quieter, less crowded ride.
• Inspiration Point: Near the northern tip of the island, the route climbs to Inspiration Point, providing panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades.
• Return to Battery Park: Complete your loop by cycling back down the west side, returning to Battery Park to finish your journey.

With well-marked paths, scenic vistas, and numerous attractions along the way, cycling the perimeter of Manhattan is a memorable and rewarding adventure for cyclists of all levels.

The Manhattan Perimeter Run is an exhilarating experience for runners looking to explore the entirety of Manhattan Island. Covering a distance of approximately 32.3 miles, this ultra-marathon offers runners a chance to witness the diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks of the city. Participants can choose to run solo or in teams, enjoying a blend of urban landscapes and scenic waterfront views.

Preparation is key for this challenging run. Runners should ensure they have the right gear, including comfortable running shoes, hydration packs, and appropriate clothing for the weather. It's also advisable to carry energy gels, bars, and a mobile phone with GPS capabilities for navigation and emergencies.

The route typically starts and ends at designated points, with key checkpoints along the way. Runners pass through famous locations such as Battery Park, the East River Esplanade, and Harlem. Each segment of the run offers a unique perspective of Manhattan, from the bustling downtown areas to the serene parks in the north.

Participants should plan their nutrition and hydration strategies carefully, as the run can take several hours to complete. Many runners find it helpful to break the run into segments, stopping at local delis and shops to replenish supplies as needed.

Joining a Manhattan Perimeter Run is not just a test of physical endurance but also a journey through the heart of one of the world's most dynamic cities. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or looking for a new challenge, the Manhattan Perimeter Run promises an unforgettable adventure.

The perimeter of Manhattan presents unique urban challenges and environmental aspects that reflect the complexity of maintaining a sustainable and livable city. As an iconic urban environment, Manhattan faces significant pressures from its dense population, high levels of traffic, and extensive infrastructure.

One of the primary challenges is managing air quality. The concentration of vehicles and industrial activities contributes to elevated levels of air pollutants, which can affect the health of residents. Efforts to promote public transportation, cycling, and walking are crucial in mitigating these effects and improving air quality.

Water management is another critical issue. The perimeter's proximity to water bodies like the Hudson River and the East River requires effective flood management strategies. Green infrastructure, such as green roofs and permeable pavements, helps reduce stormwater runoff and enhance resilience against flooding.

The urban heat island effect, caused by the concentration of buildings and paved surfaces, leads to higher temperatures in Manhattan compared to surrounding areas. This effect exacerbates energy consumption for cooling and impacts public health. Urban greening initiatives, including planting more trees and creating green spaces, are essential to mitigate this effect.

Furthermore, waste management poses a significant challenge. With the high population density, the volume of waste generated is substantial. Recycling programs, waste reduction initiatives, and sustainable disposal methods are integral to managing waste effectively and minimizing environmental impact.

Despite these challenges, Manhattan also offers opportunities for innovation in urban sustainability. The city is a hub for technological advancements and smart city initiatives. Implementing smart systems to monitor and manage energy consumption, transportation, and waste can enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Overall, addressing the urban challenges and environmental aspects of Manhattan's perimeter requires a holistic approach. Combining green infrastructure, technological innovation, and community engagement can create a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.

Engage with Manhattan's lively community through a variety of events and activities that bring people together to celebrate, learn, and improve the environment.

• The Great Saunter

  An annual 32-mile walk around the perimeter of Manhattan, offering participants a chance to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and scenic waterfronts.

• River to River Festival

  A free summer arts festival featuring music, dance, and visual arts, held at various locations along Manhattan's waterfronts.

• Outdoor Fitness Classes

  Join free or low-cost fitness classes, including yoga, tai chi, and boot camps, offered in parks and public spaces along the perimeter.

• Beach Clean-Up Days

  Participate in community-led efforts to clean and maintain Manhattan's beaches and waterfronts, promoting environmental stewardship and community pride.

• Cultural Parades and Celebrations

  Experience the vibrant cultural heritage of Manhattan through parades and celebrations such as the Puerto Rican Day Parade, Chinese New Year Parade, and Pride March.

• Outdoor Movie Nights

  Enjoy classic and contemporary films under the stars at various parks and public spaces along Manhattan's perimeter.

• Community Gardening

  Join local gardening groups to help maintain and beautify community gardens, providing green spaces for residents to enjoy and learn about sustainable gardening practices.