The Best Waterfalls in NYC and Nearby Places to Visit

New York City is a bustling metropolis that offers endless attractions, entertainment and culture, But did you know that the city also has some beautiful waterfalls that you can enjoy? Whether you are looking for a refreshing escape from the urban jungle, a romantic spot to admire the scenery or a fun adventure to explore nature you can find it at one of these amazing waterfalls in New York City and the surrounding areas.

Waterfalls in New York City

You don't have to travel far to see some stunning waterfalls in New York City, Here are some of the best ones that you can visit within the city limits:

Ravine at Central Park

Central Park is a green oasis in the heart of Manhattan and it is home to several waterfalls that cascade along the streams and ponds, One of the most scenic ones is the Ravine located in the North Woods section of the park, The Ravine is a naturalistic landscape that features a series of waterfalls, bridges and trails that create a tranquil and picturesque setting, You can access the Ravine from the West Drive at 102nd Street or the East Drive at 106th Street. 

Morningside Falls

Morningside Falls is a hidden gem in Harlem, tucked away in Morningside Park, This waterfall is created by a dam on the Harlem Meer, a small lake that feeds into the Harlem River, The waterfall is about 25 feet high and 40 feet wide and it creates a soothing sound that contrasts with the busy streets nearby. You can view the waterfall from the park's upper level or walk down to the lower level and cross a stone bridge to get closer to the water. 

Passaic Falls

Passaic Falls also known as Paterson Great Falls is a spectacular waterfall on the Passaic River located in Paterson, New Jersey about 20 miles from New York City, The waterfall is one of the largest and most powerful in the eastern United States, with a height of 77 feet and a width of 260 feet, The waterfall is also a National Historical Park as it was the site of the first planned industrial city in America founded by Alexander Hamilton in 1792, You can learn about the history and culture of Paterson at the park's visitor center or enjoy the views of the waterfall from several overlooks and trails.

Nearby Places to Visit

If you want to see more waterfalls and explore other attractions you can take a day trip or a weekend getaway to some of the best places near New York City, Here are some of the most popular destinations that you can visit:

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous and awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world and it is only a short flight or a six-hour drive from New York City, The falls are composed of three sections: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls and the Horseshoe Falls which span the border between the United States and Canada, You can experience the falls from different perspectives such as taking a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist, walking behind the falls at the Journey Behind the Falls or soaring above the falls on a helicopter tour, You can also enjoy the attractions, entertainment and nightlife on both sides of the border.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a historic and cultural city that is only a two-hour drive from New York City, Philadelphia is home to many landmarks and museums that showcase the nation's history, Philadelphia also has a vibrant arts and food scene with attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Reading terminal Market, the Philadelphia Zoo and the Rocky Steps, Philadelphia also has some beautiful waterfalls that you can visit, such as the Wissahickon Falls, the Cresheim Creek Falls and the Schuylkill River Falls.

Catskills

The Catskills are a mountain range and a natural paradise that is about a three-hour drive from New York City, The Catskills are known for their scenic beauty, outdoor recreation and artistic heritage, You can hike, bike, ski, fish or golf in the Catskills or visit the charming towns and villages that dot the region, The Catskills also have some of the most stunning waterfalls in the state such as the Kaaterskill Falls, the Plattekill Falls, the Vernooy Kill Falls and the Pratt Rock Falls.