The High Line | New York, NY

The 1.45 mile-long park, which opened in 2009, was originally created entirely on an abandoned elevated train track, snaking above the otherwise industrial West Side neighborhoods (Meatpacking, Chelsea, Hudson Yards). Today, millions clamour for the dazzling views of the Hudson River, downtown New York’s skyline and, for some voyeurs, the guest rooms at the Standard Hotel. Artists, who were already flocking to Chelsea’s gallery scene, have found an appreciative audience with massive murals, abstract sculptures and a few performance pieces cropping up around and within view of the park.

The spot is most popular during the warm months. While the flowers and plants–a selection that is mostly indigenous to the region–are in bloom, the wood lounge chairs are coveted. Sunset is also a very popular time, so, if you can, try for a morning or afternoon walk. During certain evenings the Amateur Astronomer Association leads free star gazing nights and lively cultural happenings like latin dance nights. The best part, however, has to be the people watching: Grab a seat on the stairs overlooking busy Tenth Avenue and see locals and visitors from all walks of life milling their way about the city.