New York City has plenty of spots where you can lay out a blanket, enjoy a meal, and watch the sunset. This guide covers the best sunset picnic spots, like Gantry Plaza’s piers, Central Park’s North Meadow, and lesser-known locations, with details on what makes each place special, how to get there, and what to bring. You’ll also find tips to make your picnic memorable, plus ways to enhance your visit with guided tours. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a casual outing with friends, these locations offer stunning views during golden hour.
Central Park’s North Meadow: Wide Open Spaces
Central Park’s North Meadow, located between 97th and 102nd Streets, is a 23-acre field perfect for a sunset picnic. It’s less crowded than other park areas, giving you plenty of room to spread out. The meadow faces west, so you get clear views of the sun setting behind the park’s trees and distant buildings. You can set up near the baseball fields or closer to the wooded edges for a quieter vibe. The meadow is open until 9 PM, and sunset in May typically happens around 8 PM, giving you ample time to enjoy your meal.
To get there, take the C train to 96th Street or the 6 train to 103rd Street. Enter the park at West 100th Street or East 97th Street. Bring a blanket, portable chairs, and a cooler for drinks. Pack sandwiches from Zabar’s on the Upper West Side, about a 15-minute walk away, or grab pastries from Levain Bakery. You’ll need bug spray in warmer months and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Public restrooms are available near the tennis courts, but they close at dusk, so plan accordingly. After your picnic, walk to the nearby Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir for a post-sunset stroll.
Gantry Plaza State Park: Waterfront Views
Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City, Queens, offers some of the best Manhattan skyline views for a sunset picnic. Located along the East River, the park has grassy areas, benches, and piers that stretch into the water. The sun sets behind Manhattan’s skyscrapers, creating a dramatic backdrop. You can set up on the main lawn near the iconic “Long Island” sign or on the piers for a closer water view. The park is open until 10 PM, and sunset aligns perfectly with the skyline around 8 PM in May.
Take the 7 train to Vernon Boulevard-Jackson Avenue or the G train to 21st Street. The park is a 5-minute walk from either station. Bring a blanket, portable speaker for music, and a picnic basket with cheese, crackers, and fruit from Foodcellar Market, a nearby grocery store. You’ll want a camera for photos and a sweater for the river breeze. Restrooms are available near the main entrance, and there are food trucks on weekends if you need extra snacks. After your picnic, visit the nearby Hunters Point South Park for more waterfront views.
Brooklyn Bridge Park: Iconic Skyline
Brooklyn Bridge Park, stretching along the Brooklyn waterfront, is a top spot for a sunset picnic with views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. Pier 2 and Pier 5 are great choices, offering open lawns and direct water access. The sun sets behind the Financial District’s skyscrapers, reflecting off the East River. The park stays open until 11 PM, giving you plenty of time to linger after sunset. May sunsets around 8 PM make this a prime spot for golden hour.
Take the A or C train to High Street or the F train to York Street, then walk 10 minutes to the park. Pack a picnic with pizza from Juliana’s, a short walk away, or deli items from Peas &Pickles grocery store. Bring a blanket, portable chairs, and a flashlight for navigating after dark. Restrooms are available at Pier 1, and water fountains are scattered throughout. You’ll want bug spray and a jacket for evening breezes. After your picnic, walk to Dumbo’s Instagram-famous photo spot at Washington Street for a memorable shot.
Hudson River Park: West Side Serenity
Hudson River Park, running along Manhattan’s west side, has multiple spots for a sunset picnic, with Pier 45 at Christopher Street being a standout. This pier in Greenwich Village extends into the Hudson River, offering views of the sun setting over New Jersey. The open lawn and benches make it easy to set up, and the lack of tall buildings nearby ensures unobstructed views. The park is open until 1 AM, and May sunsets around 8 PM provide a perfect backdrop.
Take the 1 train to Christopher Street-Sheridan Square, then walk 5 minutes to the pier. Bring a picnic with bagels and lox from Murray’s Bagels, a 10-minute walk away, or pack salads from Westville nearby. You’ll need a blanket, sunscreen for late afternoon sun, and a portable charger for your phone. Restrooms are available near Pier 40, a short walk south. After your picnic, rent a bike from the park’s rental station to cycle along the waterfront path.
Fort Tryon Park: Upper Manhattan Gem
Fort Tryon Park in Washington Heights is a lesser-known spot for sunset picnics, with the Heather Garden and New Leaf Lawn offering panoramic Hudson River views. The park sits on a high bluff, so you get sweeping sights of the George Washington Bridge and the Palisades as the sun sets. It’s quieter than Central Park, making it ideal for a peaceful evening. The park closes at 10 PM, and May sunsets around 8 PM align perfectly with the western horizon.
Take the A train to 190th Street, then walk 10 minutes to the park. Pack a picnic with empanadas from Floridita Restaurant nearby or grab snacks from Key Food on Broadway. Bring a blanket, portable speaker, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Restrooms are near the entrance, but they close at dusk, so plan ahead. You’ll want a camera for the views and bug spray for wooded areas. After your picnic, visit The Met Cloisters nearby for a cultural add-on.
Roosevelt Island: Quiet Riverside Retreat
Roosevelt Island, located in the East River, offers a serene picnic spot at Four Freedoms Park. This park at the island’s southern tip has open lawns and granite walls framing views of Manhattan’s skyline. The sun sets behind Midtown’s skyscrapers, creating a striking contrast. The park is open until 10 PM, and May sunsets around 8 PM make it a great choice for golden hour. It’s less crowded than mainland parks, giving you a calm setting.
Take the F train to Roosevelt Island or the tram from 59th Street and Second Avenue, a 5-minute ride. Pack a picnic with sandwiches from Wholesome Market on Main Street or bring desserts from Buttercup Bake Shop. You’ll need a blanket, portable chairs, and a flashlight for evening walks. Restrooms are available near the tram station. After your picnic, walk to the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse for a scenic nighttime view.
Governors Island: Island Escape
Governors Island, a 172-acre retreat in New York Harbor, is an excellent spot for a sunset picnic with views of Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty. The Hammock Grove, located in the island’s northern section, offers open grassy areas dotted with hammocks and picnic tables, perfect for a relaxed evening. The sun sets behind Manhattan’s skyline, casting a warm glow over the harbor. The island is open until 10 PM in May, and sunset around 8 PM provides a stunning backdrop for your meal.
To get there, take the Governors Island ferry from the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street in Manhattan, a 7-minute ride costing $4 each way. Ferries run every 30 minutes until 8 PM, so plan your return trip. You can also take the NYC Ferry’s South Brooklyn route from Dumbo or Atlantic Avenue. Pack a picnic with sandwiches from Court Street Grocers in Brooklyn or grab pastries from Pain D’Avignon on the island. Bring a blanket, portable chairs, and a cooler for drinks. You’ll need sunscreen for late afternoon sun and a light jacket for harbor breezes. Restrooms are available near the ferry landing, and water fountains are scattered throughout. After your picnic, rent a bike from Blazing Saddles on the island to cycle around the perimeter for more views.
Governors Island has a car-free environment, making it peaceful for picnicking. You can set up in the Hammock Grove for a casual vibe or move to the nearby Hills for elevated views. The island also hosts seasonal events like art installations, which you can check out after your meal. Bring a portable speaker for music, but keep the volume low to respect other visitors. If you’re with a group, reserve a picnic table in advance through the island’s website. The ferry ride back to Manhattan offers a nighttime view of the skyline, adding to the experience.
Prospect Park: Brooklyn’s Green Haven
Prospect Park in Brooklyn, spanning 526 acres, is a fantastic spot for a sunset picnic, with the Long Meadow being a prime location. This mile-long stretch of grass, located in the park’s western section, offers open space and views of the sun setting behind Brooklyn’s brownstones and distant Manhattan skyscrapers. The meadow is less crowded than Central Park, providing a relaxed atmosphere. The park is open until 1 AM, and May sunsets around 8 PM make it ideal for golden hour picnics.
Take the B or Q train to Prospect Park or the F train to 15th Street-Prospect Park, then walk 5-10 minutes to the Long Meadow. Pack a picnic with pizza from Faccio Pizza nearby or grab deli items from Union Market on 7th Avenue. Bring a blanket, portable chairs, and a flashlight for navigating after dark. You’ll need bug spray for grassy areas and a jacket for evening breezes. Restrooms are available near the Picnic House, and water fountains are scattered throughout. After your picnic, walk to the Prospect Park Boathouse for a serene lakeside view or visit the nearby Brooklyn Botanic Garden if it’s still open.
The Long Meadow has plenty of space, so you can choose a spot near the trees for shade or in the open for better sunset views. If you’re with kids, the nearby playgrounds are a bonus. You can also bring a frisbee or soccer ball for some pre-sunset fun. Check the park’s website for events like outdoor concerts, which sometimes happen in the evening. If you want a quieter spot, head to the Nethermead, a smaller meadow deeper in the park, for a more secluded picnic.
The High Line: Elevated Urban Picnic
The High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway track, stretches from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street in Manhattan and is a unique spot for a sunset picnic. The section between 23rd and 30th Streets offers open seating areas with views of the Hudson River and the sun setting over New Jersey. The park’s modern design, with benches, wooden walkways, and native plants, creates a distinct urban vibe. The High Line is open until 10 PM, and May sunsets around 8 PM provide a perfect golden hour setting.
Take the 7 train to 34th Street-Hudson Yards or the A, C, or E train to 23rd Street, then walk 5 minutes to the park’s entrances. Pack a picnic with sandwiches from Chelsea Market, a 10-minute walk away, or grab pastries from Doughnut Plant nearby. Bring a blanket for grassy areas or use the park’s benches and tables. You’ll need a portable charger for your phone and a light jacket for evening breezes. Restrooms are available at 16th Street, but they can be busy, so plan ahead. After your picnic, walk to the nearby Hudson Yards to visit the Vessel or shop at The Shops at Hudson Yards.
The High Line’s elevated position gives you a unique perspective on NYC’s west side, with views of the river and skyline. You can set up in the seating areas near 25th Street for a quieter spot or closer to 30th Street for more open views. The park gets busy, so arrive early to claim a spot. Check the High Line’s website for events like stargazing sessions, which can add to your evening. Bring a camera for photos, as the park’s design and sunset views are Instagram-worthy. If you’re with a group, keep your setup compact to respect other visitors.
Tips for Planning Your NYC Sunset Picnic
To make your sunset picnic a success, plan carefully. Most parks are free to enter, but you’ll need to budget for food and supplies. A basic picnic setup, including a blanket, cooler, and snacks, costs about $20-$50. Check park hours online, as some close earlier than others. Arrive 30-60 minutes before sunset (around 8 PM in May) to secure a good spot. Bring a blanket, portable chairs, and a small table for comfort. Pack easy-to-eat foods like sandwiches, fruit, and cheese, and include reusable plates and utensils to reduce waste.
Use a cooler with ice packs to keep drinks cold, and bring a portable speaker for music, keeping the volume low to respect others. You’ll need bug spray, sunscreen, and a light jacket for evening breezes. Check the weather forecast, as rain can disrupt plans, and bring a waterproof tarp if needed. Public restrooms are available in most parks, but they may close at dusk, so plan bathroom breaks. Use a MetroCard for subway travel, and carry cash for nearby vendors. After your picnic, consider a Broadway show like “MJ The Musical” to end your evening.
Enjoy The Best Sunset Picnic Spots with Skyline Views
These NYC picnic spots, from Central Park’s North Meadow to The High Line’s elevated walkways, offer perfect settings for a sunset meal with stunning views. Use a New York City travel guide to plan your visit and find more activities, like catching Broadway shows such as MJ The Musical. Pair your picnic with a New York in one day guided sightseeing tour to see more of the city’s landmarks. For quieter spots, seek out hidden gems in Manhattan like Fort Tryon Park or Governors Island. Visit VisitNYC.com for more ideas to make your NYC trip unforgettable.
