National Parks In New York

The Map of National Parks in New York State highlights the location of various towns and cities where the historical sites and recreation centers of the state are situated. Gateway National Recreation Area, North Country National Scenic Trail, Governors Island National Monument, Ellis Island National Monument, Appalachian National Scenic Trail, and Federal Hall National Memorial are some of the prominent national parks of New York. Appalachian National Scenic Trail of New York is spread over a total area of 2175 miles. Founded in 1921, this national park offers tourists a scope for adventure sports like hiking. The Federal Hall National Memorial of New York is famous for being the site where the first President of the United States of America, George Washington, took his solemn pledge.

Also, this Memorial houses offices of the Supreme Court and Executive Branches. Gateway National Recreation Area is situated in New Jersey and is known for many educational programs and leisure time activities such as boating, angling, bicycling, and swimming, among others. North Country National Scenic Trail of the state is famous for its picturesque landscape, historical antecedents, and cultural legacies of ancient times.

Best National Park in New York State

1. National Parks of New York Harbor (Northern New Jersey and New York City, NY)

   National Parks of New York Harbor is composed of 11 national park sites and affiliated areas having 24 natural/historic/recreational locations. It starts from the southern tip of Manhattan’s The Battery, extends to three other boroughs, the Verrazano Narrows Bridge until it reaches the New Jersey coast.

   New York Harbor tells you the story of America as well as the leading city of New York. The assortment of places included in this harbor tells you about the history of early defenses of the country, the new democracy, the waves of immigrants, to the rise of commercial powerhouses. Know the history as well as the natural heritage of the state and nation, both on land and water, from the National Parks of New York Harbor.

   All these 11 sites preserving the 400 years of American history not only showcase the powerful international icons but also lets you enjoy the places of extraordinary beauty.

   The physical address of National Parks of New York Harbor is 26 Wall Street, New York, NY 10007. It is located at Wall Street and Nassau Street’s corner. Their offices are located at Federal Hall National Memorial. While 26 Wall Street is the Federal Hall’s main entrance, 15 Pine Street (near Pine Street and Nassau Street’s intersection) is the rear entrance. When you are traveling to Federal Hall, try using mass transit. There are no entrance fees.

National Historical Parks in New York

1. Harriet Tubman National Historical Park (Auburn, NY)

   Harriet Tubman National Historical Park pays respect to the human rights activist and humanist Harriet Tubman and her ideals. Her deep faith and devotion to family, freedom, and community guided her passion for social work. After her own and family’s emancipation, Harriet moved in 1859 from Canada’s Ontario to New York’s Fleming and Auburn.

   Until her death in 1913, Tubman continued fighting for the human rights and dignity of people from central New York. Learn more about her struggle, her progressive thoughts, and the fight against women’s suffrage from this national historical park.

2. Saratoga National Historical Park (Stillwater, NY)

   1777 was a watershed moment in the history of America as well as the world. The American troops resisted the British invasion and made the British Army surrender. It was the first time in world history that the then mighty British forces surrendered. This victory not only earned America essential foreign recognition and support but also affirmed independence for the United States. Saratoga National Historical Park describes the saga of those tumultuous times that changed the face of the world.

3. Women’s Rights National Historical Park (Seneca Falls, NY)

   Women’s Rights National Historical Park works as a time capsule that narrates the struggle revolving around the first Woman’s Rights Convention of New York’s Seneca Falls on July 19 and 20 in 1848.

   Visit this historical park to know the story of the struggles surrounding women’s rights for equality, human rights, and civil rights. It reminds you of the struggles carried out by the women’s rights leaders, abolitionists, and other reformers of 19th century America so that all people are accepted as equals, a struggle that is continuing still now.

Best National Historic Sites in New York

1. Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site (Hyde Park, NY)

   Visit the house of former First Lady of the United States, Eleanor Roosevelt. It is this house where 32nd president of the United States Franklin Roosevelt and his wife Eleanor entertained the press, state visitors, friends, and their associates in a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the exhibits at the nation’s first Presidential Library along with the thousand acres of gardens and trails.

2. Home Of Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site (Hyde Park, NY)

   This is the home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the longest-serving president of the United States. President Roosevelt used to return to Hyde Park often to renew his spirits, especially when he faced crisis (both in his personal and political lives). Explore both the exhibits at the former president’s home as well as thousands of acres of gardens and trails.

3. Lower East Side Tenement Museum National Historic Site (Manhattan, NY)

   If you are keen to learn about the lives, struggles, and experiences of the immigrants, visit this historic tenement museum. It has been the home of around 7,000 people (who came and settled in America) during 1863-1935. Check out the cramped living spaces of the tenement and try to feel the lives of its past residents. Be a part of the walking tour and reading programs to know more about the immigrant experience in those days. Visiting this place has become that more significant because of the evolving migrant crisis in the US and also across the world.

4. Martin Van Buren National Historic Site (Kinderhook, NY)

   Martin Van Buren may be a footnote today but in pre-Civil War America, he was central to the issues like slavery and the creation of political parties. Martin Van Buren National Historic Site helps you get a closer look at the man, those bygone days, and more.

5. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (Oyster Bay, NY)

   Get to know about the 26th President of the United States (1885 to 1919), Theodore Roosevelt, by visiting his Sagamore Hill home. His “Summer White House” became the focus of international attention during Roosevelt’s time in office. Explore the historical buildings along with the 83 acres of natural surroundings of one of the most popular presidents of America.

6. Saint Paul’s Church National Historic Site (Mount Vernon, NY – 897 South Columbus Avenue, NY)

   Saint Paul’s Church has played an important role in Eastchester’s (located 20 miles or 32 km north of New York) colonial life since 1665. Visit this place to get a feel of the times of the American Revolution.

7. Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site (New York, NY)

   Theodore Roosevelt was the first US President who was born in New York City. Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site was where Theodore’s boyhood was spent. Learn more about his childhood days.

8. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site (Buffalo, NY)

   Theodore Roosevelt is known for starting many things. He protected the lives of ordinary citizens and also helped America grow to a major force in the international sphere. He had started the regulation of big businesses. One of the most important presidencies in the history of the United States started its journey from an important, brief, and emotional ceremony in New York. Visit Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site and get a closer look at that bygone era that altered the country forever.

9. Thomas Cole National Historic Site (Catskill, NY)

   Thomas Cole invented a new style of art back in 1825. It was especially important because it gave Americans their new style of art. His most notable paintings were landscapes, which started the art movement called the Hudson River School. His most noted achievements were created at the peace of his home called Cedar Grove at New York’s Catskill.

10. Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site (Hyde Park, NY)

    Visit Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site to witness the home built by one of the first families of wealth in America. Just get awestruck by the splendor of the aristocratic lifestyle.

Best National Monuments in New York

1. African Burial Ground National Monument (NY)

   It is the oldest and largest known excavated burial ground for the Africans (including both slaves and free). Visit African Burial Ground National Monument to feel and recognize the important historic roles the enslaved Africans played in building New York.

2. Castle Clinton National Monument (New York, NY)

   Castle Clinton reminds you of the beginning of New York City. It represents the city’s growth over the years because this is where New York City began. Located at the southern tip of Manhattan Island, Castle Clinton was built to resist the invasion of the British Empire back in 1812. Over the years, this place has transformed and welcomed theatergoers, millions of visitors to New York Harbor, sightseers, and immigrants.

3. Statue Of Liberty National Monument (Ellis Island, NY)

   The people of France gifted the United States “The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World”. On October 28, 1886, it was dedicated as the Statue of Liberty and went on to become a National Monument in 1924. National Park Service is taking care of this copper statue since 1933. Statue Of Liberty National Monument has become a universal symbol of freedom and democracy.

4. Ellis Island Part Of Statue Of Liberty National Monument (NJ, NY)

   Ellis Island tells you the story of 12 million immigrants who passed through the halls during 1892-1954. It showcases the true spirit of America that gave the immigrants the opportunity to realize their and their descendants’ American dreams.

5. Fort Stanwix National Monument (Rome, NY)

   Fort Stanwix played an important role when the Europeans arrived in America and the nations fought for the rich resources of North America. Sneak peek into the history of this fort and listen to the stories of those bygone times.

6. Governors Island National Monument (New York, NY)

   Governors Island was an important base for the US Army from 1794 to 1966. It became a part of the economic, political, and social life of New York City. Currently, this island has come up as a happening summer seasonal venue of art, culture, and performance. View and learn about the two centuries of military heritage of the Governors Island. From May 1 to October 31, this island remains open to the public.

7. Stonewall National Monument (NY)

   The law against homosexual activities was particularly harsh in New York City before the 1960s. However, the Stonewall National Monument reminds us of the June 28, 1969’s Stonewall Uprising. It was one of the most momentous movements in the history of American history in favor of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer) civil rights.

Best National Memorials in New York

1. Federal Hall National Memorial (New York, NY)

   George Washington took oath as the first President of the United States in the Federal Hall of Wall Street. This structure also housed the first Congress, Supreme Court, and Executive Branch offices. Federal Hall National Memorial now serves as a museum and memorial to the first President of America as well as the start of the United States of America.

2. General Grant National Memorial (New York, NY)

   General Grant National Memorial is the largest mausoleum in North America. It is the final resting place of US President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia. Ulysses S. Grant was the person who served as the Commanding General of the Union Army. He helped end the bloodiest conflict in American history. As the President, he tried to heal the nation after the civil war and went on to make civil rights a reality.

3. Hamilton Grange National Memorial (New York, NY)

   Alexander Hamilton was instrumental in making the USA a success story during his times. He was an orphan on the Caribbean island of Nevis. However, he went on to become the right-hand person of George Washington. Hamilton Grange National Memorial lets you find out more about him along with his country home, which he built on his Harlem estate.

Best National Scenic and Historic Trails in New York

1. Appalachian National Scenic Trail (Maine to Georgia, CT, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV)

   The Appalachian Trail is a more than 2,180 miles (3,508 km) long public footpath. It traverses through the Appalachian Mountains. The idea of creating such a scenic trail was first conceived in 1921. The private citizens started building this and it was completed in 1937. Take a trip down this scenic trail to explore the beauty of the wild, scenic, wooded, and pastoral lands of the Appalachian Mountains.

2. Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail (Various States VA, MD, DE, DC, PA, NY)

   Englishman John Smith and his small crew of adventurers mapped around 3,000 miles (4,828 km) of the Bay and rivers and documented American Indian communities after exploring the Chesapeake Bay in an open boat during 1607-1609. You can be a part of this adventure too by following the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

3. North Country National Scenic Trail (Seven States-New York to North Dakota MI, MN, ND, NY, OH, PA, VT, WI)

   Trek the hills and valleys in the 4,600 miles (7,403 km) long North Country National Scenic Trail. Get mesmerized as you stand on the shores of lakes and streams from 10,000 years old glaciers.

   The picturesque landscape is characterized by clear-flowing water, red and gold autumn, open prairies, a fairyland of snow, and distant horizons. Either hike for a few hours or enjoy an overnight camping/backpacking trip, there are lots to enjoy the North Country National Scenic Trail.

   The physical address is 318 East Main Street, Suite K, Lowell, MI 49331. This national parks headquarter is situated in Lowell, Michigan. Regular cellular and internet access are available but their effectiveness varies greatly along the entire stretch.

4. Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail (MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, DC)

   Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail preserves the historical alliance between General Washington’s Continental Army and General Rochambeau’s French Army in 1781. These two forces joined to fight the British Army in Virginia’s Yorktown.

   This allied army moved hundreds of miles and became the American Revolution’s largest troop movement. The historic cooperation and joint effort helped the allied forces triumph over the British Army at Yorktown, securing American independence. Witness the history unfold before you along the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail.

Best National Recreation Area, Bay, Seashore, and Scenic & Recreational River

1. Chesapeake Bay (Chesapeake Bay Watershed, DC, DE, MD, NY, PA, VA, WV)

   Enjoy North America’s largest estuary. The Chesapeake Bay gives you the opportunity to visit major league cities, American Indian landscapes, and colonial towns. You can also fish and farm in the villages. Take a lighthouse tour, slurp oysters, pick crabs, enjoy kayaking, slurp the oyster delicacies, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Chesapeake.

2. Gateway National Recreation Area (Brooklyn, Queens & Staten Island, New York, and Monmouth County, New Jersey, NY, NJ)

   Gateway National Recreation Area is spread across a total area of 27,000 acres. It starts in New Jersey’s Sandy Hook and continues till New York City’s Breezy Point. It works as a gateway to both New York Harbor (from the ocean) and the National Park Service for millions of visitors every year. Along with the historic structures and cultural landscapes, you’ll find green spaces and beaches.

3. Fire Island National Seashore (Patchogue, NY)

   Fire Island National Seashore gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in history as well as coastal life. It offers an amazing ecosystem where you’ll find a wide array of plants, animals, and people. Visit this place for spiritual renewal, camaraderie, and solitude.

4. Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River (Pike and Wayne (PA) and Delaware, Orange and Sullivan (NY) counties along the Delaware River, NY, PA)

   Enjoy the clean water of the Delaware River, flowing through the rolling hills and riverfront villages in the northeastern part of the US. Canoe through it and get marveled to see the scenery change as you move through the rapids and quiet pools. This is the last major undammed river in the eastern US and supports a healthy ecosystem. It offers a tranquil and exciting environment to enjoy and recoil.