Riverside Park, a green oasis stretching along the Hudson River on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, holds many delightful secrets. But perhaps none are as enchanting as the 91st Street Garden. For those in the know, this verdant space between 90th and 91st Streets is a constant source of surprise and beauty, especially as summer unfolds. What was already beautiful in past seasons has transformed into an even more breathtaking spectacle, overflowing with lush greenery and a vibrant tapestry of multicolored flowers.
Each visit to the 91st Street Garden feels like stepping into a more vibrant and colorful world. The garden seems to evolve daily, becoming more exquisite with each passing sunrise. This little slice of paradise on the Upper West Side is meticulously cared for by the dedicated volunteers known as The Garden People.
The Legacy of The Garden People at 91st Street
The story of the 91st Street Garden is one of community resilience and dedication. In 1981, when their previous garden at 96th Street was displaced by new construction, a group of passionate volunteers relocated and began planting in this area of Riverside Park. Their efforts were pivotal in revitalizing Riverside Park, which had fallen into disrepair during the 1970s and 80s. The Garden People brought life and color back to the park, nurturing it back to its former glory. By the late 1990s, Riverside Park was not only thriving but also ready for its close-up.
91st Street Garden: A Star in “You’ve Got Mail”
Riverside Park, and specifically the 91st Street Garden, gained cinematic fame when it played a key role in the beloved romantic comedy, You’ve Got Mail, starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. The 91st Street Garden served as the iconic backdrop for the film’s final, heartwarming scene. It’s in this charming garden where Joe Fox (NY 152) finally meets his online love, Kathleen Kelly (Shopgirl), bringing their virtual connection into the real world amidst the beauty of Riverside Park. For those who haven’t experienced this classic Nora Ephron film, we won’t spoil the ending, but suffice it to say, the 91st Street Garden is where movie magic truly happens.
Experience the Community Spirit at the 91st Street Garden Today
Today, the spirit of community continues to flourish at the 91st Street Garden. Over 40 local residents dedicate their time and energy to maintain and enhance this special section of Riverside Park. These passionate gardeners cultivate their individual plots with care, regularly planting, raking, weeding, and nurturing this urban oasis. Witnessing their dedication firsthand is truly inspiring. The 91st Street Garden has become one of the most magnificent community gardens in New York City, a testament to the power of collective effort and love for nature.
While Central Park often draws the crowds uptown, Riverside Park, and especially the 91st Street Garden, deserves equal attention. Make sure to include the 91st Street Garden in your next NYC itinerary. Strolling through this enchanting space, you too will feel transported into a Nora Ephron movie, surrounded by beauty and the magic of New York City.
We extend our sincere gratitude to The Garden People for their unwavering dedication to the 91st Street Garden!
