Winter in New York is magical, but springtime is even better. Warm weather means mimosas at brunch on outdoor patios, morning jogs along the Hudson River, and lazy picnics in one of the city’s numerous parks.

Take full advantage of the season by spending it in Battery Park City. A rare departure from the usual hustle-and-bustle of downtown, the neighborhood is a relaxing escape to suburbia within the big city. Understated but luxurious, 225 Rector Place is a 24-story condominium building on the southernmost tip of Manhattan Island. Its serene 92 acres is replete with lush greenery, scenic views of the Hudson, and idyllic spots for quiet reflection. Its own oasis, this planned community is ideally located in the heart of Battery Park.

The best part? To experience the most of springtime in the city, you don’t have to go much farther than a few steps out the door of 225 Rector Place.

For Leisure

North Cove Marina and South Cove

Until the 1960s, Battery Park City was the home of container shipping and seaport traffic. Head over to the North Cove Marina to relive the neighborhood’s nautical roots and take a ride on the historic Shearwater Classic Schooner. And only a block away, feel like you’re actually walking on water at South Cove Park, where paths and bridges jut out over the Hudson.

Teardrop Park and Teardrop Park South

With a slide, sandboxes, water play, and fun rock formations, Teardrop Park is the perfect place for kids to have fun. A hidden haven in the middle of a city block, the park’s newest addition, Teardrop Park South, is equipped with a small amphitheater, two fountains, and a quiet space to picnic—great for the whole family!

Pavilion

Situated near the very top of Battery Park City, the Pavilion occupies a unique position in the landscape: on one side of the open structure are the scenic lawns of Rockefeller Park, and on the other, the hubbub of downtown. Stay for a while on its low stone steps, a true front row seat to the city.

For Health & Fitness

The Esplanade

Run, walk, or even skip the entire length of Battery Park City on the Esplanade, a pedestrian pathway offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River, the Statue of Liberty, and the New Jersey shoreline. Stop to admire the numerous sculptures and public art installations lining the path or rest in one of the beautiful parks and gardens along the way.

Battery Park City Ball Fields

Play more than just baseball on the spacious fields on West Street. From softball and soccer to Lacrosse and Ultimate Frisbee, and everything in between, make the most out of New York’s spring weather by staying active outdoors. Although the majority of time is reserved for youth play, adults are also welcome.

Daily Programs in the Parks

A true community, the neighborhood offers a wide variety of classes for health, fitness, and other fun activities: swimming lessons for kids, senior exercise groups, teen social nights, and much more. To get involved, just click here.

For the Arts

The Upper Room

Marking the entrance to the Esplanade at Albany Street, this colonnaded courtyard designed by Ned Smyth in 1987 both reimagines an ancient Egyptian temple and echoes the rhythms of its urban environment. Stand in the shade of its iconic palm tree pillar or brush up on your chess skills at its altar-like table during your lunch break.

Skyscraper Museum

We’re surrounded by them in New York, but how much do we really know about skyscrapers? Take a brief escape from the outdoors at the Skyscraper Museum to learn about how the world’s most iconic skyline has evolved through history.

Poets House

Founded by the late Stanley Kunitz and housing 70,000 volumes of poetry, Poets House has among the most comprehensive collections of poetry in the United States. Browse the stacks or release your inner poet by attending acclaimed workshops and events for both adults and children.

For Dinner

Pier A Harbor House Less than 3 years ago, Pier A opened to the public for the first time in its 128-year history. Now it’s home to the Pier A Harbor House, a beautiful dining establishment with a casual, street-level area for drinks and snacks and a more formal balcony bar. Book one of its private rooms for special events or make a reservation for a celebratory evening out.

Blue Smoke

Founded by Danny Meyer’s renowned Union Square Hospitality Group, Blue Smoke’s second location has the same diverse—and delicious—culinary delights honoring the American South as its original Flatiron spot, with a couple wonderful additions: beautiful outdoor seating to enjoy the spring air while you dine, and special menu items like Southern Table, a four-course family-style feast.

Gigino at Wagner Park

Experience a taste of Tuscany while enjoying outstanding views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty at one of the best kept secrets in New York City. While the restaurant is open year-round, it’s at its best when the weather’s nice and its spacious patio is bustling with people enjoying a romantic evening or a fun family get together.