Where to relax and reflect away from Columbia

As the new school year begins and the weather cools down a bit, it is always a good idea to find a spot off campus to relax and reflect.

Freshman and upperclassmen alike, classy or naturalistic, there is always the one for you in the city.

Riverside Park

First and foremost, Riverside Park is always a good idea. Consisting of a four-mile waterfront scenic strip of land, the park is great for runners and walkers alike. The benches along the river are the great to enjoy some quality afternoon reading time in the sun, or if you just want to sit down after a long day of class, there is no other place that can compete with this perfect sunset watching spot. The park is located between Riverside Drive and the Hudson River, and can be accessed on 116th and Riverside Drive.

Sakura Park

Sakura Park is another asset of Morningside Heights, and is located right behind Riverside Church and to the west of Manhattan School of Music. With beautiful grass field in the center, benches around the park allows you to sit towards any direction you would like and enjoy the dynamic scenes around the park. In a sunny day, you could easily find yourself surrounded by laughter of children as they either play in the playground inside the park, or picnicking with family. The park can be accessed on 122nd and Riverside Drive, and explore Grand’s Tomb across from the park if you are feeling adventurous.

Stumptown Coffee

If you are feeling more classy and are ready to get on the subway and go downtown for some quality time, Stumptown Coffee might be your choice. Located at street level of the Ace Hotel in Midtown West, the coffee shop is quiet, classy, and trendy. There are plenty of seats facing the window, providing the street view as a perfect distraction. Coffee from Portland is brewed well to match up with the classy atmosphere, and Breslin Bar is just down the hall if you are going for a classy night out. The coffee shop is accessible from 29th and Broadway.

East River State Park

For scenics and skyline lovers, there is no better idea than East River State Park down in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Simply take the 1 train down to 14th, and transfer to L line till Bedford Avenue, and you will see the beautiful Manhattan skyline spread in front of you. With plenty of grass area and spaces on the bank, nothing is going to get between your curious eyes and the peaceful cityscape across the Hudson River.

Redhook

So you wonder what should hardcore scenics seeker and sunset chasers go? I have saved the best for last — take the ferry to Redhook, Brooklyn. Rain or shine, the ferry travels between the waterfront town and lower Manhattan, providing a great opportunity for visitors and residents alike to enjoy the trance of Hudson River. Water taxis are completely free, and once you get to the bank, spend some time walking around the town— this industrialized waterfront community will surprise you with its multitude of culture and heritage. Come back to the pier as the day ends, and the beautiful scarlet clouds of sunset are right there waiting for any pious nature lovers.