With the smell of grilled chorizo inviting even the most avid bicyclist to hit the brakes and stay awhile, the atmosphere at Riverbank State Park epitomizes uptown's energetic - and often overlooked - vibe as a hotbed of happiness. This is the place where parents can enjoy setting up their child's birthday party because they're getting one hell of a waterfront view. And it's a park that despite having plenty of amenities, the simple act of spending time with friends and family is what draws crowds here week in and week out.

With boomboxes blaring dance music and domino tables lined up to the left and right of the main drag, Riverbank State Park is a place for New Yorkers who enjoy leisure activities to let loose. On any given day throughout the year, you're able to find the athletes of New York roller skating, ice skating, running track, swimming laps, practicing field goals, or what you're likely most interested in, playing an NYC Footy league match on Wednesday night or Sunday afternoon. 

So what's the sell on why making the trek across the West Side Highway is worth the time? Because this pitch more than most will make you feel at home no matter how long you've been living in the Big Apple. Though it can be fun to get lost taking in that Hudson River view here, what you'll never lose sight of when playing at Riverbank is the joy of just playing the game.

If that sounds like the escape you’ve been looking on the island of Manhattan, here’s three tips you’ll want to pack with you to have the best park party at Riverbank State Park.

1. Break out the good camera

Located on the banks of the Hudson, you’ll get a gorgeous view of the George Washington Bridge to the north and the Manhattan’s west side skyline to the south when stopping for a photo opp.

2. Register for an event in advance at the Greenhouse and Education Center

Open seven days a week year round, the Greenhouse and Education Center at Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park offers a full calendar of programming. From their Sauté Sizzle Savor weekly cooking classes to meditative artmaking sessions, including an educational endeavor during your visit will leave you feeling more connected to the grass you’ll be sitting on for the rest of your stay.

3. Grab a sandwich nearby before entering the park and have a picnic

Just north of Riverbank State Park right on the main path by the Hudson, you’ll often find street food vendors like Rosie’s Bites set up with refreshments. Though there’s a snack bar on the park grounds as well as a full service restaurant, Sofrito, it’s best to pick up something from the neighboring community of Hamilton Heights and have a picnic in the park. Our pick: the cuban sandwich and tres leches cake from 5 Estrellas Bakery & Cafe.