Top 6 Outdoor Spaces Near Campus

Visit these scenic outdoor locations near Manhattan College for an escape from city living and breath of fresh air.

Practicing social distancing doesn’t mean you need to distance yourself from nature. Spend time at any of these famous outdoor locations in the Bronx to escape city living and prioritize your physical and mental health.  

By Paula Espitia ’20

  • Van Cortlandt Park

    van cortlandt park on a sunny fall day with leaves on trees turning orange
    Students can enjoy hiking and running trails, and fields of open green space in Van Cortlandt Park, an urban oasis located just steps away from campus. Perfect for picnics, quiet walks in the woods and socially distanced gatherings, the park also is home to the Bronx’s largest freshwater lake.

  • Bronx Zoo

    brightly colored toucan bird sitting on green leaf
    Visit the Bronx Zoo to see animals from all over the world. The park is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week and offers free admission all day on Wednesdays for undergraduate college students. Reserve tickets in advance and head there for a great day with wildlife.

  • City Island

    oceanfront pier overlooking blue water

    Experience the salty air and stroll the neighborhood to see the beautiful Victorian architecture on this quaint island in the Bronx. Travel to City Island from campus via public transportation using these directions from Google Maps.

  • New York Botanical Garden

    pink and white blossoms on large tree on sunny day in a field
    The New York Botanical Garden features year-round exhibits, a sprawling landscape and a native plant garden. Arrive early to immerse yourself in the extravagant plant life during any season. Like the Bronx Zoo, the Botanical Garden has free limited admissions on Wednesdays. Reserve tickets in advance here for daytime access to the outdoor gardens and collections. 

  • Pelham Bay Park

    young couple pushing stroller in a park waving to little boy

    More than three times the size of Central Park, this green space is the city’s largest park property. There are miles of paths and hiking trails for you to enjoy and practice safe social distancing. 

  • Wave Hill

    flowering green landscape

    This 28-acre estate offers stunningly beautiful views, overlooks the Hudson River and is an easy 20-minute walk from campus. Reserve tickets in advance here.  Wave Hill is free on Thursdays and grants access to all gardens, greenhouses and woodland. 

By MC Staff