• Brooklyn Bridge Park to East River Park

  New York’s runners are finally getting their revenge on Robert Moses. The ongoing development of the Brooklyn Bridge Park and, across the water, the East River Esplanade lets you connect a five-mile stretch of beautiful, car-free waterfront. Start at the base of Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn Heights, running past the fantastical Pier 6 playground, and follow the path as it loops away from the water toward a detour down Furman Street. At Montague Street, head left back to the river, and join the path again, passing native grass-scapes and manicured lawns (not to mention a sweet spiral jetty vanishing into the water). Wind your way up and over the Brooklyn Bridge, descending onto Centre Street in Manhattan. Hang a right onto the pedestrian plaza across from Reade Street, then steer east until you’re at the river. Run north along the esplanade, appreciating the brackish sea breezes, until you hit the 10th Street overpass. Cross over the FDR and head home via the subway stop at First Avenue and 14th Street. Or just run back the way you came.

From the 2011 Best of New York issue of New York Magazine