Thursday's Child: The High Line, New York City

Thursday, November 1, 2012

One of our favourite ways to explore when we’re on holidays is by going for a walk.  Walking slows everything down, and helps us see what we might miss if we were in a cab, subway or car.  This month I’ll be reminiscing about some of the beautiful walks we’ve taken around the world.
One of my favourites was on New York City’s High Line.  The High Line was originally an elevated railroad track, built to keep freight trains safely away from ground level.  After being closed in 1980, various interest groups sparred over its possible demolition.  The decision was made to turn it into an urban park and, now that I’ve seen it, I can’t imagine it ever being anything else.  This pastoral haven in the middle of a busy city is both a true respite and a gorgeous walk. 


We climbed up to the High Line just outside of Chelsea Market, and continued the walk north to 30th Street.  It was a beautiful summer day, and we were happy to stroll its length, enjoying the flowers, the view and the serenity.




19 comments:

Valerie Gamine said...

I love that something so industrial has been transformed onto something nature-friendly. Gorgeous photos, Beth! They're making me yearn for spring, already! :D

Natalie Aguirre said...

It looks lovely. I hope it survived the hurricane safely.

amy (fearless homemaker) said...

Walking is one of my favorite ways to explore both my city AND cities that are new to me, too. Love this post - i felt like I was walking along with you!

Vi said...

I love walking in the city. You are so right, you see so much more. I have only been to NYC briefly with a drama group, I would love to go back and take it all in.

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

Enjoyed this walk with you!

Bonnie said...

I agree, walking is my favorite means of exploring. Beth, was there a children's book published about the making of this park? It sounds familiar. I am going to be away from school until next week...I am going to try to find the book I am thinking of. I can't wait to accompany you on more walks.

Liz That Skinny Chick Can Bake said...

We love to walk the cities we visit, too. Can you believe I've never been to NYC? Hope to change that soon!

Belinda said...

One of my favorite stops in NYC - let's wish all the best for those affected!

Barbara said...

Walking is the only way to explore and enjoy a city, Beth.
Things are not quite so great in NYC as far as my family is concerned. Still no electricity.

Beth said...

Oh, Barbara, I'm so sorry to hear that. I hope they have friends in another part of the city to help them out. What a difficult time for everyone who lives in New York.

Natalie and Belinda, I completely agree. When I was reading about the High Line to write this article, I read that it has been closed since October 28 because of the storm. Apparently they don't think there has been any major damage, but they're keeping it shut for a while as a precaution. I considered writing about it in this article, but I didn't want to trivialize the experiences of New Yorkers who don't have heat or water. Let's hope that before long, everything in New York - electricity, subways and water, not to mention this beautiful park - is back to normal.

Unknown said...

We love to walk the cities we visit too. We missed the high line on our last trip to New York, will have to visit next time around;-)

Angie's Recipes said...

I am with you about walking is the best way to explore a city.

Jess said...

How cool~ I didn't know anything like this existed!

lisa is cooking said...

I read London is planning to copy the High Line since it's had such success. It must be lovely to walk in the park setting above the busy city street!

Stina said...

We always walk when on vacation. It drives my kids nuts, but my husband and I are happier when we get in our exercise.

Anonymous said...

These photos are wonderful. I just hope that area gets restored and back to order soon.

Joanne said...

The High Line is one of my favorite places also!!

Andrea_TheKitchenLioness said...

Beth, I had never even heard of the High Lane in New York City - this looks so wonderful. I love your photography and the idea of taking us along for the walk!

Thanks for sharing!

Anonymous said...

It sounds wonderful! This is on my list of things to do next time I'm in NYC.

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