Fort Tryon Park

Fort Tryon Park is a 67-acre public park located in the Washington Heights and Inwood neighborhoods of Manhattan, New York City. Situated at one of the highest points in Manhattan, the park offers spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River, the George Washington Bridge, and the New Jersey Palisades.

The park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., son of the architect of Central Park, and opened to the public in 1935. It features a unique landscape that takes advantage of its rocky terrain, with winding pedestrian paths cutting through wooded slopes and open lawns. The park's design incorporates locally excavated stone, which was used to build low walls lining the scenic drive and other structures.

One of the park's highlights is the 3-acre Heather Garden, the largest public garden with unrestricted access in New York City. This garden showcases over 500 varieties of plants, trees, and shrubs, providing year-round horticultural interest. Another notable feature is the Alpine Garden, which includes a staircase, grotto, and decorative rocks.

Fort Tryon Park is also home to The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art that houses an extensive collection of medieval European art and architecture. The park's rich history includes its role in the Revolutionary War, when it served as a strategic location for American forces.

Throughout the year, the park hosts over 300 free public programs, including cultural events, educational activities, and fitness classes. The Fort Tryon Park Trust, a non-profit organization, collaborates with NYC Parks to maintain and enhance the park's features and programming.