Elevated Acre, Financial District, Manhattan - Image 1
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Elevated Acre Financial District Manhattan

4.6
·664 reviews·New York, United States

A hidden rooftop oasis in Manhattan's Financial District, offering lush green space and breathtaking city and river views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
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Elevated Acre, Financial District, Manhattan - Image 1

Elevated Acre Financial District Manhattan

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hidden rooftop oasis in Manhattan's Financial District, offering lush green space and breathtaking city and river views.

4.6
(664 reviews)

"A beautiful garden area with lots of plants, benches, and picnic tables, offering nice views and a peaceful vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Find the Escalators

Look for the outdoor escalators at 55 Water Street to reach this hidden rooftop oasis. :arrow_up:

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring your own lunch to enjoy on the lawn or at the tables for a peaceful city meal.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Throughout the park

Soak in breathtaking vistas of the East River, Brooklyn, and Governors Island from this elevated vantage point.

Instagram+1
The Lush Green Lawn

The Lush Green Lawn

Central lawn area

Relax on the expansive artificial turf, perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the open space.

TikTokInstagram
Seasonal Beer Garden

Seasonal Beer Garden

Top of the building

Enjoy a refreshing drink with a view at the seasonal beer garden, a perfect spot to unwind.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Discover Your Urban Oasis

Escape the Manhattan hustle at Elevated Acre, a serene rooftop park offering stunning city and river views. It's a surprisingly peaceful spot, perfect for a quiet lunch or a moment of reflection amidst the skyscrapers. TikTokInstagram

Accessing This Hidden Gem

Finding Elevated Acre is part of the adventure! Look for the outdoor escalators at 55 Water Street. While an elevator is also an option, the escalators offer a unique approach to this elevated escape. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant weather, golden hour
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Elevated acre vibes #newyorkcity #nyc #nyctiktok #thingstodoinnyc #nycrecs
@thekatieromero
41.6K likes • 514.7K views

🎯 Find the Escalators

Look for the outdoor escalators at 55 Water Street to reach this hidden rooftop oasis. Instagram :arrow_up:

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring your own lunch to enjoy on the lawn or at the tables for a peaceful city meal. TikTokReddit

Have you checked out The Elevated Acre in The Financial District?         This is a wonderful green space that is exactly one acre in size. There are trees, tables, turf, and beautiful views of Brooklyn.        Head down to the FiDi to check out this hidden gem.         P.S. There is even a bar tucked away at the top!        #elevatedacre #financialdistrict #fidi #manhattan #hiddengem #greenspace ...
danielblatman
27 likes • 445 views
Un oasis escondido en #NY + exactamente en Financial District un lugar que pocos conocen. Como accedes? Subis unas escaleras mecánicas al aire libre en 55 Water st. y aparece este lugar maravilloso. Esto es “Elevated Acre” Mucho verde, un parque y vistas INCREÍBLES a Dumbo y a Governors Island. Es totalmente gratuito y los horarios son de 7 AM-10 PM de Mayo a fines de Sept. y 8 AM-8 PM de O...
chicasennewyork
1.9K likes • 38.4K views

🤫 It's a Hidden Gem

Don't be discouraged if it's hard to find; the reward is a quiet escape from the city bustle. InstagramReddit

🚰 No Public Restrooms

Plan accordingly as there are no public restrooms available on-site. Reddit

New York in late August? That’s tennis season. 🎾🗽 Here’s how to spend your U.S. Open days off-court: ☕ Breakfast in Brooklyn after walking the Brooklyn Bridge 🌿 A secret green escape at the Elevated Acre, a hidden garden high above the bustling streets of the Manhattan Financial District 🏙️ A rooftop thrill at Edge NYC — the highest outdoor skydeck in the Western Hemisphere 🚣‍♀️ Kayaking on the ...
visittheusa
0 likes • 12.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Find the Escalators

Look for the outdoor escalators at 55 Water Street to reach this hidden rooftop oasis. Instagram :arrow_up:

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring your own lunch to enjoy on the lawn or at the tables for a peaceful city meal. TikTokReddit

🤫 It's a Hidden Gem

Don't be discouraged if it's hard to find; the reward is a quiet escape from the city bustle. InstagramReddit

🚰 No Public Restrooms

Plan accordingly as there are no public restrooms available on-site. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning skyline and bridge views, especially during golden hour. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(664 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Elevated Acre as a surprisingly peaceful and beautiful rooftop park offering stunning city and river views. It's praised as a hidden gem perfect for quiet picnics and relaxation, though the lack of restrooms is a noted inconvenience. InstagramReddit

"This is such a beautiful garden area at 55 Water Street. I went up a set of escalators from the outside. Security did not let me inside to take an elevator, which I heard was an option.
There were lots of beautiful plants and flowers. Many benches and picnic tables.
I love this area and would love to go back and have lunch there.
There were some people there, but it wasn't too crowded on a Monday afternoon.
I recommend stopping by here."

Sharon Olson

"Nice park to chill and hang out. Nice views. Seems not busy most times"

Justin Delossantos

"First time here after walking by the escalators for years not realising there's a park up there. There is an elevator behind the escalators and steps. The park is well looked after and clean. Plenty of colourful tables and chairs. Some shaded areas, trees, shrubs and flowers. Large artificial grass area. Views across the east river, and helipad."

stephen davis

What People Like

Beautiful city views
Peaceful atmosphere
Free admission

What People Dislike

No public restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to access the Elevated Acre is by taking the outdoor escalators located at 55 Water Street in the Financial District. Some visitors have also noted an elevator option behind the escalators. Instagram

While there isn't dedicated parking for the Elevated Acre itself, there are several parking garages in the Financial District. However, public transportation is often recommended for easier access. TikTok

Several subway lines serve the Financial District, including the 2, 3, 4, 5, J, and Z trains. The closest stations to 55 Water Street are Wall Street, Broad Street, and Whitehall Street. TikTok

It's considered a hidden gem, so it might take a little searching. Look for the escalators at 55 Water Street; the park is located on top of the building. InstagramReddit

Yes, if you're exploring Lower Manhattan, you can walk to the Elevated Acre from attractions like the Charging Bull, Wall Street, or the Staten Island Ferry terminal. It's a pleasant walk through the Financial District. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Elevated Acre is completely free to enter and enjoy. It's a public park space open to everyone. Instagram

The park is generally open from 7 AM to 10 PM daily, offering ample time to visit during daylight or evening hours. Instagram

There is no admission fee. The Elevated Acre is a free public park, making it an accessible and enjoyable spot for all visitors. Instagram

Yes, an elevator is available as an alternative to the escalators. Some visitors have reported using it for access. Reddit

Security is present to manage access, but visitors generally find it a safe and welcoming environment. Security personnel may guide you on entry procedures. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo spots offer panoramic views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline. The lawn area and the edges of the park provide excellent vantage points. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The Elevated Acre offers beautiful sunset views over the city and the river, making it a prime location for golden hour photography. Instagram

Yes, you can bring professional cameras. The park is a popular spot for photographers looking to capture unique cityscapes. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. TikTok

You can capture wide-angle shots of the cityscape, detailed views of the bridges, and serene moments of the park itself. It's a versatile location for urban photography. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a full-service restaurant directly within the park, there is a seasonal beer garden offering drinks and snacks. Instagram

Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. It's a popular spot for enjoying a meal with a view. TikTokReddit

The Financial District offers numerous dining options, from quick-service delis and cafes to sit-down restaurants, all within walking distance of the park. Reddit

Yes, you'll find many delis, cafes, and fast-casual eateries in the surrounding blocks of the Financial District where you can purchase food to bring to the park. Reddit

The beer garden typically offers a selection of beverages and light snacks. Specific offerings can vary seasonally. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The Elevated Acre is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, offering a quiet escape from the busy streets below. It's a great place to relax and unwind. TikTokReddit

It's often described as not too crowded, especially on weekday afternoons, making it ideal for those seeking a tranquil experience. Reddit

The park features ample seating, picnic tables, benches, trees, shrubs, flowers, and a large artificial grass area. There's also a seasonal beer garden. InstagramReddit

With both escalators and an elevator available, the Elevated Acre is generally accessible. The park itself is flat and easy to navigate. Reddit

You can relax, have a picnic, enjoy the views, read a book, or simply take a break from the city's energy. It's a versatile space for leisure. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Elevated Acre offers a safe and relatively quiet space for families to enjoy a break from the city's intensity. The artificial turf lawn is a great spot for kids to run around or have a picnic. While there are no dedicated play structures, the open space and the novelty of being high above the streets can be exciting for children. TikTokReddit

Parents should be aware that there are no public restrooms on-site, so planning bathroom breaks beforehand is essential. Bringing snacks and drinks is highly recommended, as dining options are limited to a seasonal beer garden. The views of the river and bridges can also be a fun educational element for younger visitors. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Elevated Acre is a fantastic find. It's completely free to enter and offers a high-value experience with its stunning views and relaxing atmosphere. Instagram

Instead of spending money on expensive observation decks, you can bring your own picnic lunch and enjoy it with a million-dollar view. This makes it an ideal spot for a cost-effective and memorable New York City experience. TikTokReddit

couples

The Elevated Acre provides a romantic and serene setting for couples looking for a peaceful escape. Enjoy a quiet picnic together on the lawn or share a drink at the seasonal beer garden while taking in the beautiful city and river views. InstagramReddit

It's a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon stroll or a moment of quiet conversation away from the usual tourist crowds. The picturesque backdrop makes it ideal for capturing memorable photos together. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Elevated Acre: An Urban Sanctuary

The Elevated Acre is a unique urban park situated atop a building in Manhattan's Financial District. It offers a surprising amount of green space, including a large artificial lawn, trees, and seating areas, all designed to provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city below. Visitors often describe it as a hidden gem, a place where they can relax, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the impressive views. TikTokInstagramReddit

Accessing this elevated oasis is part of its charm. The primary entrance is via a set of outdoor escalators at 55 Water Street, which ascend to the park level. For those who prefer, an elevator is also available. This unique approach contributes to the feeling of discovering a secret spot. Instagram

Beyond its green spaces, the Elevated Acre boasts spectacular panoramic views of the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Governors Island. During warmer months, a seasonal beer garden adds to the appeal, offering a place to enjoy a drink with a backdrop of the iconic New York skyline. Instagram+1

Navigating Access and Amenities

Finding your way to the Elevated Acre is an adventure in itself. The most frequently mentioned access point is the outdoor escalators at 55 Water Street. While some visitors have noted the presence of an elevator, the escalators provide a distinctive entry experience. InstagramReddit

Once inside, the park offers a range of amenities designed for relaxation and enjoyment. You'll find plenty of benches and picnic tables, a large area of artificial grass perfect for lounging, and well-maintained trees and shrubs that provide a touch of nature. Reddit

It's important to note that while the Elevated Acre is a wonderful place to unwind, it lacks public restrooms. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly and use facilities before or after their visit. Reddit

Capturing the Views: Photography at Elevated Acre

The Elevated Acre is a photographer's delight, offering a unique perspective on the New York City landscape. The park's elevated position provides stunning panoramic views of the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the sprawling Manhattan skyline. TikTokInstagram+1

Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, the opportunities for capturing memorable shots are abundant. The golden hour, particularly during sunset, bathes the city in a warm light, creating dramatic and beautiful photographic moments. Instagram

Beyond the grand vistas, the park itself offers charming details. The combination of urban architecture and carefully curated greenery provides a visually interesting contrast, making it a versatile location for various types of photography, from sweeping cityscapes to intimate urban nature shots. TikTok