No matter where you go in New York City, there’s sure to be a park nearby. It’s one of the best things about the city. They’re our little ways to escape the hustle and bustle of the buildings, people, and cars around us. There are a ton that aren’t frequented by tourists, which is surprising, because some of them are absolutely beautiful.

One of my favorite parks is located on the other side of the East River and provides an unparalleled view of the skyline. Gantry Plaza State Park is accessible by the ferries as it is one of the stops, or just off the 7 train in Long Island City. It used to be the railyard and docks where rail cars were loaded and unloaded onto barges to cross the river. The gantries still stand on the water’s edge, above ends of tracks left in place to remind visitors of its history. This park is beautiful during the summer with tons of places to lay out in the sun and see the city from a new and beautiful angle.