Completed in 1895, Morningside Park is a masterpiece of landscape architecture by Central Park’s team of Olmsted & Vaux, celebrating a dramatic glacial bluff that resisted Manhattan’s street grid. With scenic overlooks, meandering paths and hidden water sources along Harlem Valley, the park embodies a striking contrast between urban and natural beauty. It has witnessed neglect and conflict, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement, and faced an explosive Columbia University gym proposal.

Today, NYC Parks and a 44-year partnership with Friends of Morningside Park are leading a remarkable revitalization. Improved access routes, shepherded by Council Member Shaun Abreu, and a waterfall & pond restoration, supported by Columbia University, are underway.

Take a tour of the park and traverse the steep staircases and topography of Morningside Park at multiple locations. Note that this is a physically challenging 90-minute walk. Tours will be led by Brigham Keehner, AIA, Chair of the Board for Friends of Morningside Park.

This tour will be a physically challenging 90-minute walk, including multiple steep staircases. Participants should bring water and wear good walking shoes.

Children are welcome, accompanied by an adult. All persons attending, including children, must have a ticket.