Picnicing & Grilling
While you can enjoy a picnic lunch most anywhere in the park, grilling is restricted to the four riverfront picnic areas listed on this page. Picnic tables are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and while some grills are provided, visitors may also bring their own. No grills or tables may be reserved.
All four riverfront picnic areas are accessible from Henry Hudson Drive.
The park’s riverfront areas are NOT served by public transportation — visitors may need to consider rideshare or similar services.
Palisades Picnic Areas:
Our largest picnic area juts into the river just north of the George Washington Bridge, with a large playground and lots of open space. But it’s also our busiest park area — plan to come early in the day if you can!
Spread along almost half a mile of Hudson shoreline with a small playground and access to the old Bloomer’s Beach area at the north end, this one tends to fill up right after Ross does — again, plan ahead!
A hidden gem for those who like a more rustic setting. You won't find drinking fountains or restrooms here, but there are plenty of shady spaces and some neat old ruins by the old bathing beach along the river.
Miles north of the other picnic areas, Alpine can feel more remote, but with unique features like the Alpine Pavilion and the historic Kearney House, it too will fill on a nice weekend afternoon.
Picnic Area FAQs
If you have a question that is not addressed here, please call Park Headquarters at: 201-768-1360