1.45 miles of elevated park built on a 1930s freight rail line. Landscape architecture by James Corner Field Operations, plantings by Piet Oudolf. Changed the way cities think about infrastructure reuse.
Location
Meatpacking, New York
Map
Insider Intel
Walk the entire length from Gansevoort Street north to 34th Street — it takes 30–40 minutes without stops. The southern section through Chelsea has the best views and plantings. Exit at 23rd St for Chelsea Market or continue to Hudson Yards if you must see it.
Morning before crowds arrive. Spring and summer for peak plantings. Sunset for light on the Hudson. Avoid midday in summer when shade is minimal and crowds are maximum. The High Line is now a victim of its own success — expect significant foot traffic.
Opened in sections between 2009 and 2014. Saved from demolition by community advocacy. The rail line dates to 1934 and carried freight trains until 1980. Piet Oudolf's planting design uses native and adaptive species to mimic the wild growth that appeared after abandonment. The project sparked elevated park developments in cities worldwide — some successful, most not. Still excellent, still crowded. Free admission, always open.