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Running in New York City

The city that never sleeps has a running scene to match. From Central Park to the Brooklyn waterfront, NYC offers world-class urban running.

Temp Range

15°F to 100°F throughout year

Crowd Level

High - run early for space

Best Season

April-May & September-November

Seasonal Gear Guide

Winter (Dec-Feb)

25-40°F

Cold, occasional snow, icy paths

What to wear:

Thermal layersWind-proof jacketInsulated tightsReflective gearGrip soles for ice

💡 Central Park paths are cleared quickly after snow. The reservoir track stays runnable year-round.

Spring (Mar-May)

45-70°F

Variable, rainy, warming up

What to wear:

Light layersRain jacketArm sleevesTransition shoes

💡 Cherry blossoms in Central Park make for beautiful runs in April. Great marathon training weather.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

70-95°F

Hot, humid, occasional thunderstorms

What to wear:

Lightweight singletSplit shortsSunscreenHandheld water bottleElectrolytes

💡 Run before 7am to beat the heat AND the crowds. Hudson River Greenway has a nice breeze.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

50-70°F

Perfect running weather, NYC Marathon season

What to wear:

Long sleeve or short sleeveLight tights or shortsRace day outfit

💡 NYC Marathon is first Sunday in November. The city buzzes with running energy all fall!

Popular Running Routes

Central Park Loop

6 mi

The classic NYC running route with rolling hills and iconic views

Hudson River Greenway

11 mi

Flat waterfront path from Battery Park to George Washington Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge Loop

3.4 mi

Cross the bridge, run the Brooklyn promenade, return via Manhattan Bridge

Prospect Park

3.4 mi

Brooklyn's answer to Central Park with similar rolling terrain

NYC Running Tips

  • •Beat the Crowds: Central Park is packed on weekends. Run before 7am or use the reservoir track (1.58mi) for uninterrupted running.
  • •Summer Heat: The concrete jungle gets brutal in July-August. Carry water, run at dawn, and stick to shaded park paths.
  • •Safety First: Stick to well-lit paths, run counter-clockwise in Central Park (with traffic), and stay alert with headphones.
  • •Running Clubs: NYC has amazing running communities. Check out NYRR, Black Men Run, or Brooklyn Track Club for group runs.

NYC Essential Gear

Lightweight Running Vest

$80-150

Bone Conduction Headphones

$100-180

Reflective Running Gear

$30-60

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