The uptown stretch of Riverside Park is wide, green and far quieter than the sections below 96th Street, which makes it the best place in Manhattan to do a mat class outdoors without an audience. Summer on the Hudson runs the sessions free and drop-in, with instructors leading from the lawn and the river a few metres west. If you have been meaning to start a practice, a free evening class on grass is the least intimidating way in.
What to expect
Expect an instructor-led mat session on an open lawn, participants spread out in rows, and the Hudson River path and cyclists passing just beyond. Bring your own mat or towel; the grass is soft but uneven in places. Sessions are drop-in, so latecomers can slot in at the back without disrupting anything.
Good to know
- Riverside Park's north lawns are reachable from the 1 at 145th Street, then a walk west toward the river.
- Free and drop-in — bring your own mat or a thick towel.
- Suitable for beginners; instructors pitch these public sessions to mixed levels.
- Wear layers — the riverfront gets breezy in the evening.
- Paved paths lead to the lawn edge for stroller and wheelchair access.
- Bring water; there are fountains in the park but none on the lawn itself.
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Common questions
Do I need to bring a mat?
Yes — bring your own mat or a thick towel for the grass.
Is it free?
Yes, Summer on the Hudson fitness sessions are free and drop-in.
Where exactly is it?
On the Riverside Park lawn west of 145th Street in Manhattan.
Also in Manhattan
