To get away without going too far.
It is just not that easy with Manhattan.
Just the mere thought of New York City gives one a mental image of yellow cabs driving though Times Square – good luck hailing one of those. People squeezing into the subway, like sardines in a can. Grand Central Station is never empty, with tourists alone that visit every day.
New York is, after all, the hustle-and-bustle capital of America. Usually, getting away means going out of town. And I don’t mean Jersey, as lovely as that might sound.
Poconos, anyone? Or farther… Maryland? Maybe Westchester county is ‘far’ enough, or the other way south towards a place like Jones Beach.
But as it turns out, all you would need is a ride on the 7 train to Flushing, and get off at Vernon-Jackson, one stop away from Grand Central.
Walk towards the water. And, voilà!
Untapped, unspoiled by the business of the Big Apple and its tourists, THIS is the place to decompress, to take in the views, and to just sit and relax.
It’s damn perfect.
Gantry Plaza State Park is about 12 acres long, first opening in 1998 and recently expanding in 2009. It once housed a Pepsi factory, hence the iconic sign on the northern end of the park.
These days, it is a gorgeous getaway in Long Island City, Queens, with a great view of the water and Manhattan. Everywhere in the park, you can find a nice spot to just sit and take in the scenery. There’s lounges built in, strewn around the area. You’re also more than welcome to bring your blanket.
The view is majestic.
Right across the river was the mighty Manhattan skyline. To the right, an awesome view of the bridge.
I sat by the water, right on the rocks. You could hear nothing but the splash of the soft waves, a nice breeze accompanying the sunset.
For that moment, I was able to get away.
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