Hudson Heights is a historic neighborhood in northern Manhattan, New York City. Located above the banks of the Hudson River, this hilly district includes some of the city’s best waterfront parks. The George Washington Bridge and Cloisters at Fort Tryon Park are some notable landmarks in Hudson Heights.
Attractions and Sightseeing
Situated in the heart of Hudson Heights, Bennett Park is one of the most unique green spaces in Manhattan. This small park is perched on top of a hill that’s more than 260 feet above sea level. Therefore, Bennett Park marks the tallest natural point in the borough. A historic marker in the park is set up over the original site of Fort Washington, which was used by the Continental Army. Despite its elevated geography, Bennett Park doesn’t offer clear views of the surroundings because of the tall residential buildings that dominate the neighborhood.
Fort Washington Park is another popular destination for recreation in Hudson Heights. Located along the banks of the Hudson River, this green space has trails and other sports facilities for kids and adults. Tennis World NYC, a tennis academy with more than 10 courts, is included in the park.
As you stroll the walkways of Fort Washington Park, you’ll notice the American Redoubt Marker that explains the area’s significance during the American Revolution. Additionally, the park offers great views of the historic George Washington Bridge. Featuring two decks, this suspension bridge is one of the busiest in the world. One of the main towers of the bridge stands above the Little Red Lighthouse.
Having a design that’s inspired by temples of ancient Greece, Inspiration Point is another interesting site in Hudson Heights. This outdoor terrace offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and New Jersey’s Palisades Cliffs.
The trails that run past Inspiration Point also lead to Fort Tryon Park, which is home to the Cloisters of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This attraction includes Medieval artwork in authentic gardens and other structures that have been transported from France and Spain. The galleries at the Cloisters include canvas paintings, tapestries, sculptures, manuscripts, etchings, and other precious artifacts from various parts of Europe.
History
Having an elevated terrain near the Hudson River, Hudson Heights was heavily used by the Continental Army during the American Revolution. George Washington and his troops set up several posts and forts to fight British forces throughout this extensive military campaign. By the late 1800s, the district was lined with elegant mansions and other residential properties in popular architectural styles, such as Tudor Revival and Gothic. Italian and Jewish immigrants dominated the demographics of the area in the early 20th century.
Location and Transportation
Hudson Heights occupies dozens of blocks on the northern tip of Manhattan. This primarily residential neighborhood is bound by Broadway on the east. Having a naturally hilly geography, the district overlooks the Hudson River. However, steep cliffs and other vertical drops make it difficult to go between some of the streets and the waterfront promenades.
The famous George Washington Bridge runs through the heart of Hudson Heights. Carrying traffic between Manhattan and New Jersey on more than 10 lanes, this bridge charges hefty tolls. Interstate 95 and the Henry Hudson Parkway merge on the NYC side of the bridge. You can also get to the neighborhood by taking the New York City Subway to underground stations on 175th, 181st, and 190th streets. The George Washington Bridge Bus Station is conveniently located in Hudson Heights. This busy terminal is served by buses that link Manhattan with the northern suburbs and NJ.