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The Highline

The High Line is most certainly fits the category Sharky Things to Do and Place to Go. This elevated park is a new sight for New York, opening in 2009. It's a great place to sight-see, as well as place to be seen. New Yorkers often enjoy the breeze and relax atop the old rail tracks turned park.

Location

The High Line is located on the West Side of Manhattan. The elevated park spans a few neighborhoods. At its northernmost location the High Line begins at West 30^th Street. Its southernmost point is located at Gansevoort Street. There are many different entrance points to the High Line. There are entrances every two to three blocks, making it easy accessible from anywhere on the West Side. Not all locations have elevators, so if you have a wheelchair or stroller you may need to walk a few extra blocks before finding an elevator entrance.

History

The High Line as a public park is a relatively new phenomenon, but the tracks upon which the park sits were built in the 1930s. The elevated train tracks were built to preserve the public's safety, as trains running at street level on the West Side of Manhattan were becoming increasingly dangerous. As time went on, the train tracks became less and less useful, until they fell into disuse in the 1980s. For many years the tracks sat abandoned, with the threat of being torn down. An organization called Friends of the High Line was started. The Friends of the High Line and the City of New York work to develop a plan for a park. By 2009 the first section of the High Line was opened. In 2011 the second section of High Line opened.

Tours

It is possible to take a tour of the High Line. This will allow you to learn so much more about the history and architecture of the park. You will learn about Friends of the High Line and the impact they had on helping get the park started. You can take a group tour for $15 per person. You can also hire a private tour if you are traveling with a large group. Check the Friends of the High Line's website for special free tour events throughout the year.

Events

Events are regularly held on the High Line. Events range from art to science and many things in between. For example, you can check out the free event, Stargazing on the High Line. Here you will have access to high powered telescopes and you can look out at the stars over New York City. There is always a wide variety of ever changing art on the High Line. This includes performance art. Some events, such as specialized talks may have a fee or require reservations.

Nearby Restaurants

The High Line is a great jumping off point for good food on the West Side of Manhattan. There is a variety of casual eats located on the High Line. Vendors change, but you can be sure to get good coffee, gelato, and baked goods, just to name a few. If you want something more substantial, try the nearby Chelsea Market. What was once the National Biscuit Company is now a bustling market of eateries. Food at the Chelsea Market ranges from wholesale to sit down. Try Hale and Hearty Soups for a great lunch. You can take something to go and eat it while relaxing on the High Line.

Future Development

A third portion of the High Line is still set to open in the coming years. Much of the upcoming planning surrounds the rail yards. The process is still in its beginning stages.

Hours

The High Line is open every day from 7am until 11pm. If you can get there around dusk you will surely see some amazing sunsets.

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The Highline