No matter where you live in New York, all of our residents can agree that we love to boast about our waterfalls. To us, there's nothing better than sneaking off to one of our favorite serene getaways and enjoying the relaxing gift Mother Nature gave us. Often we forget that within our state lies some truly hidden gems. Why you might ask? These incredible waterfalls tend to go unnoticed because they're man-made! Refreshing and unique, here are 9 enchanting urban waterfalls in our state that you MUST visit if you're wondering, "where are the best waterfalls near me?"
1. New Croton Dam, Croton-On-Hudson
Part of New York City's water supply system, this incredibly scenic waterway stretches across the Croton River! Technically this "waterfall" is half man-made and half natural, but either way, this was too remarkable to not make our list. With a spillway that stretches across a thousand feet, this place is really somewhere you'll want to spend a day exploring for yourself!
If you like hiking trails with waterfalls in New York, you'll love the dam too!
Read more about New Croten Dam.
2. The 9/11 Memorial, New York City
Created to honor all the loved ones who were lost in the attacks on 9/11 and the 1993 bombing at the World Trade Center, the two pools are now where the towers once remained. Each one acre in size, these pools are the largest man-made waterfalls in all of the United States.
Learn more about the 9/11 Memorial.
3. 50th Street Commons, New York City
One of the most unique urban waterfalls on our list, this 2,400 square-foot park not only has a glass waterfall but it also changes colors! When life in the city gets too chaotic and you need a place to put yourself in time out, come and check out this peaceful park between East 50th Street and Madison Avenue.
See more about 50th Street Commons.
4. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, Buffalo
The focal point of the Ancient Rainforest exhibit, this beautiful waterfall can be found surrounded by koi fish, incredible greenery and even banana plants. Although it's not technically a hike, you might want to add it to your list of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in New York anyway!
Learn more about Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens.
5. Paley Park, New York City
Another one of New York's hidden pocket parks, this gorgeous sight before your eyes opened back in 1967! Known to be one of New York's absolute favorite urban parks, this stunning waterfall will ease the pain of any bad day.
6. Greenacre Park, New York City
This 25-foot high waterfall will give you a relaxing mist and was created in 1971. Your favorite part about visiting this waterfall will be that it completely drowns out the loud noises of the city!
See more about Greenacre Park.
7. Businessman's Lunch AKA Wells Falls, Ithaca
Flowing next to an old power plant, this waterfall is a sort of strange sight to see! While this picturesque waterfall may look like the perfect place to take a dive, the creek the falls flows into is actually off limits for swimming!
Learn more about Businessman's Lunch/Wells Falls.
8. Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn
This beautiful and historic garden, which began its creation back in the early 1900s, is more than worth the visit. With a mission to bring the relationship people and plants have closer together, you'll love taking a stroll by this urban waterfall. This might beat even the best waterfall hikes in New York!
Read more about Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
9. The Chelsea Market Waterfall, New York City
Once you lay your eyes on this simple but mesmerizing waterfall inside New York's Chelsea Market, you won't be able to take your eyes off of it! Pouring out of a considerable size pipe and into the ground with color changing lights set behind it, this waterfall can be found surrounded by tourists all year long. Add the Chelsea Market Waterfall in New York to your must-see list!
Learn more about the Chelsea Market.
Have you ever taken the time to unwind by one of these urban waterfalls? Share with us your favorite man-made waterfalls hiding around New York!
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