If you work in Manhattan, but find that you don't want to live there, then you should look at the outer boroughs. Areas in The Bronx, Brooklyn, and even Staten Island are perfect for people who want to be around lots of green space. This particular article will cover areas where you can find an apartment, not just a house. For instance, some areas in Queens and Staten Island are lush with trees and parks, but they are mainly private homes. Here are two spots, one in The Bronx, the other in Brooklyn.
Woodlawn, The Bronx
This is a quiet community located in the north Bronx. It's sandwiched between Riveradale and Kingsbridge to the west and Eastchester to the east. The beautiful thing about Woodlawn is that it is bordered by the enormous Van Cortland park. This provides a huge amount of greenery, and a natural barrier that keeps the area quiet. While the area is traditionally made up of single family homes, there are quite a few small apartment buildings, particularly if you head up towards Mclean Avenue on the edge of the border with Yonkers.
The neighborhood used to be predominately an Irish-American enclave, and as such there are plenty of Irish bars, small cafes, and family-run shops. It's also super easy to get into Manhattan. There is a subway (the #4 train) that goes right into Manhattan and makes stops along the east side. You can also take the Metro North and ride into Grand Central.
On the weekends, you can take your family to Van Cortland park and enjoy the horse stables, the pool, or just picnic on the great field. There are also great running trails in the hills.
Park Slope, Brooklyn
If you prefer Brooklyn, then Park Slope is the obvious choice. The name alone testifies to the greenery of the area. You will be steps from Prospect Park, and the famed Brooklyn Zoo. The area also is home to Greenwood cemetery, which provides a great barrier to urban sprawl. Park Slope is a very cool area with very old housing stock. You can ask your real estate agent to look for a studio apartment in one of the old Brownstones that have been converted into single apartments, or you can choose one of the more modern apartment buildings. The newer buildings area around 8th street and 7th street.
The area is close to Manhattan, and while you need to take two trains, the ride is actually short. There are also express buses for people who prefer not to transfer subways at Atlantic Ave.
Your kids will love the area because Prospect Park has a big lake, a zoo with fun animals, as well as a museum. Plus, the Brooklyn Academy of Music is close by, so there are plenty of cultural experiences to be had.
For more information about these and other areas that offer lots of green space, talk to a realtor near you.
