West St, Battery Park City

To many, the West Side Highway signifies cheesy strip joints, blaring car horns, and the smog and smoke of traffic. But those who still think this end of Hell's Kitchen is as downmarket as it was twenty years ago would be well-placed to take a good look at the redeveloped West Side Highway as it is today. A long row of trees and shrubs separates the lengthy bike path (which goes all the way down to Battery Park, with a few reroutes) from the cars, creating a pleasant and less-polluted track for aspiring athletes that is arguably one of the best bike trails in the city. Likewise, the park offers a whole host of dining and activity options, from the peaceful riverside cafes (the Boat Basin up on 79nd Street is one such option - there are many more drink stands and eateries further south) to the sports facilities (such as the basketball courts under the overpass near 72nd Street) and pleasant green paths. While Central Park can feel sometimes like a hamster wheel, with its circular track, those looking for a longer and more engaging athletic ride would be advised to check out one of the city's most interesting green spaces.

West Street runs along the Hudson River. It extends from Battery Park to W 14th St. Its southern tip hosts the downtown famous skyscrapers. It borders the memorial of Ground Zero and The World Financial Center. The last one is an interesting building. Inside there are many shops and restaurants, but the part I like the most is the winter garden, with its beautiful glass ceiling and high palm trees. This garden was severely damaged after 09/11, but it has now reopened and offers great live performances.