550 acres of waterfront park. 4 million people. One epic walkway, especially in the summer. The Hudson River Greenway isn’t just a paved path—it’s an experience. This waterside route runs for nearly 13 uninterrupted miles along Manhattan’s west side and draws more than 4 million walkers, runners, and cyclists every year.The Greenway is a veritable runway for spectacular skyline views, coordinated athleisure, Citi Bikes in motion, and serenades from buskers with Broadway dreams, making it the most heavily used pathway of its kind in the country.
What makes it unforgettable isn’t just the scale. It’s the vibe. One side is the river, the other, the skyline. In between, it’s a block party in motion or your own pocket of calm. And if you live at ARO, it’s all just outside your front door.
You could walk or ride the Hudson River Greenway straight through, or continue on to tackle the whole 32-mile Manhattan Waterfront Greenway to circumnavigate the island. But where’s the fun in that? The real magic is in the detours. Here are a few standout spots frequently mentioned by lifestyle writers, local guides, and Greenway regulars alike:
Thē Soirēe | 796 9th Avenue
Just a short stroll from ARO, this Hell’s Kitchen café is an easy first stop before you hit the Greenway. Located on 9th Avenue between 52nd and 53rd Streets, it’s about a 6-minute walk to the riverfront path, close enough to keep your coffee hot and your energy high. Grab a cold brew or lavender latte, fuel up with a fresh pastry, and ease into the day like a local. Great for jumpstarting your morning, spotting neighborhood characters, and powering up before the path.
Little Island | West 13th Street (Pier 55)
Built on the site of Pier 55 and hovering just off the Hudson River Greenway near West 13th Street, Little Island is one of the most distinctive public spaces in the city. Supported by 132 tulip-shaped concrete columns, this floating park invites Greenway-goers to slow down, wander its paths, and take in sweeping views of the skyline and river. Whether you’re catching your breath, stumbling into a pop-up performance in the open-air amphitheater, or just looking for a scenic detour, it’s one very Instagrammable break in your ride.
Just about 2 miles south of ARO, Little Island is an easy addition to any Greenway outing, roughly 40 minutes on foot or just 10-12 minutes by Citi Bike. It’s a scenic, no-sweat start that drops you right into the rhythm of the waterfront.
City Vineyard | 233 West Street (Pier 26)
When it’s time to refuel, this riverside favorite near Pier 26 delivers. It’s about 2.5 miles from ARO, or a 12-minute ride along the Greenway with all the views and none of the traffic. Grab a table by the water, sip a rosé, share a flatbread or two, and stay longer than planned. No one’s judging if lunch becomes happy hour.
Sunac Natural Market | 600 West 42nd Street
Wanna pick up a few snacks? No worries. Sunac Market is right around the corner from ARO and fully stocked with everything from mango slices to miso soup. It’s fast, it’s fresh, and it’s just the right amount of extra if you’re trying to impress your picnic date, or just eat like you’ve got a personal chef.
Grab a pressed juice that says “I do yoga,” a sandwich wrap that travels well, or a crunchy medley that’s pocketable, purposeful, and ready for action. Whether you’re snack-curious or going full blanket-and-basket mode, this is where your Hudson River Greenway spread gets a serious upgrade. Because nothing ruins a picture-perfect view like realizing you’ve got the munchies and nothing to munch.
Searching for no-fee rentals in New York City that keep you close to the skyline and closer to the rhythm of nature? ARO delivers. With the Hudson River Greenway just steps away, you’ve got front-row access to fresh air, movement, and that perfect balance of activity or calm. Whether it’s your morning commute or your golden hour ritual, picnic place, or coffee-fueled joyride — it’s all right there waiting for you to choose your own adventure.
Ready to find your next move? Reach out and discover life at ARO. Connect with our team to see what it’s like to live just steps from one of the city’s most iconic outdoor escapes.