13 Weeks of Adventure: Week 3 - Green Spaces
The Verrazzano View, Little Island and Wave Hill.
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My darlings, we OUTSIDE this week, but first, my gratitude! ♥️
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The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, colloquially known as the Verrazzano, is one of the most underrated features of New York City. As a Brooklyn girlie growing up off the Belt Parkway, this bridge was a mainstay of my childhood, especially when visiting my grandma in Philly.
Its ends connect historic Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, the only active-duty military installation in the New York City Metropolitan Area, with the now decommissioned Fort Wadsworth in Staten Island. Unlike other bridges around NYC, the Verrazzano has no footpath for pedestrians. Individuals only ascend the roadway for the New York City Marathon and the Five Borough Bike Tour. And while it ranks 18th in the world in terms of length, it is #1 in the Americas—beating out San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge by 18 meters!
Designed by Othmar Amman, it took five years to complete (1959-1964). Although less than a mile long, it simplified travel between the two southernmost boroughs. Previously, the only way to reach Staten Island was by ferry. With NYC's numerous attractions, I understand why people might not find their way to this scenic view during their visit, but they should consider it!
I admire bridges for their symmetry (🤤) and because they epitomize support, connection, and integrity. As pinnacles of human ingenuity, they’re a marvel to stare at. This bridge's wonder is highlighted by its designation as a scenic view when traveling eastbound on the Belt and its intersection with the Bay Ridge Promenade. My advice? After taking in the views up close, head west along the promenade until the Statue of Liberty and the skyline of lower Manhattan appear.
Little is right!
Snuggled between a dog park and marine fire station on the left and the food and entertainment of Pier 57 on the right, Little Island added 2.4 acres to New York City’s green space after its completion in 2021. In total 132 “tulips” emerge from the water to suspend the recreational area where piers 54 and 56 used to be. While an entirely new structure, designers touched on the history of the area by including Pier 54’s old piles in the design, as they provided habitats for aquatic life, and an aged archway from the old Cunard-White Star building, which operated the piers in the early 1900s.
I planned my visit last week for the morning to ensure I beat out any crowds, but the sheer size of the place made crowding1 inevitable at gathering points. Initially, I was surprised by the space’s timed entry on weekends and holidays, but after visiting, I understand why it is completely necessary. The pier comprises an amphitheater, a southwestern lookout, and a refreshment area with tables, chairs, sun sails, and food trucks. A winding footpath connects all areas, while art installations(?) that remind me of the bad guy’s eyes from “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” dot the walkways. There are grassy areas, flowers, and shrubs alongside spaces to observe the water and piles below.
Given its concert schedule featuring dance, music, theatre, and opera, one might think Little Island was constructed more as a hosting venue than a lounge space. However, it serves both purposes. If your visit is like mine, with the lawns "resting" (closed), you might find the island's best view is from outside it entirely. This was the most enjoyable spot to take in the wave-shaped structure and architectural design. Before exiting, indulge your inner child by stepping on the brass panels to the left of the park’s south entrance - they’re actually bell chimes.
Despite being well within the city limits, Wave Hill feels miles away from the hustle of New York. I wouldn't have believed I was just 20 minutes from Harlem if I hadn't driven (okay, rode shotgun) there myself. While it only mildly touches on the spread-out upstate feel, the public garden and cultural center’s positioning on Riverdale Ridge provides a view free of buildings and signs of human life.
In 1960, two families, the Perkins and Freemans, deeded two former residences and 28 acres of land to the City of New York for public use. This resulted in the Wave Hill as we know it - gardens, grounds, and woodlands, offering panoramic views of the Palisades and a peek at the George Washington Bridge from upstream. Upon entry, you are greeted by flowering plants, shrubs, and trees, but you will likely find the quiet tranquility away from roadways and urban noise most inviting. And if that doesn’t do it, views from the pergola, the lower lawn, or either of the three greenhouses surely will.
While the cactus and succulent house was certainly enjoyable, I found the thoughtful seating areas throughout the grounds most endearing about the landscape. Blankets for picnicking and fold-out chairs are strictly prohibited, so throughout the premises, you will find plenty of benches and Adirondack chairs for enthusiasts to relax. As there is so much to cover, I suggest making a day out of your visit, especially if entering on Thursday, when admission is free2. There are walking trails, lots of natural beauty, and a café for when you invariably get hungry. Bring along a friend or a good book and get lost somewhere remarkable.
LET ME KNOW
Do you have a preferred garden or park where you love to spend time? What draws you to it?
Have you ever visited a famous waterfront city, and what did you like most about it?
Are there any bridges on your bucket list to visit?
What is one item you can not picnic without?
Please know that when I am in outdoor spaces (parks, gardens, lawns, etc.), I have a personal bubble of about 15 feet. If a human is any closer than that in public areas, I consider it crowded.
Otherwise, adult entry is $10.
Do you have a preferred garden or park where you love to spend time? What draws you to it?
Yes!! I love Cooper River Park in NJ. It has a nice water view that I’ve been going to since a child, 3.1 miles all around (high school cross country track meets held there) and it also happens to be where I got married. Safe to say I’m fully connected to this park lol
Have you ever visited a famous waterfront city, and what did you like most about it?
Tha Camden waterfront! You can see Philly from there and it is so beautiful any time of day.
Are there any bridges on your bucket list to visit?
I’m dying to visit the bridge in San Francisco where full house was at lol
What is one item you can not picnic without?
My journal. I feel most grounded and connected to God when I’m picnicking anywhere and always feel like it’s the perfect time to leave myself or God a little note!
Great read and amazing pictures. You should take up photography because I can’t believe these views exist in New York
Thank you for sharing these beautiful outdoor spaces. There is an arboretum here in Baltimore MD called Cylburn Arboretum. It is tucked in an urban suburban neighborhood of the city & whenever I go there, I feel like I am transported somewhere else. It has a manor house, beautiful benches, a walking path & trails that you can hike. I’ve always wanted to see the San Francisco Bay bridge. It’s on my list.