Carl Schurz Park sits on the Upper East Side along the East River — 14.9 acres in the Yorkville neighborhood, with the John Finley Walk running along the water and views of the Triborough and Queensborough Bridges. It’s one of my favorite lesser-known portrait locations in Manhattan.
Most couples think Central Park for engagement sessions on the Upper East Side. Carl Schurz is quieter, less trafficked, and the waterfront light is extraordinary. The promenade along the East River faces west, which means late afternoon light comes in warm and direct across the water. The Gracie Mansion grounds provide formal garden backdrops. The varying levels of the park give you different perspectives within a short walk.
The 25th Hour fight scene was filmed here. If you know the film, you know what the light looks like.
It’s a good park for an engagement session at any time of year — fall for foliage, summer for the river light, winter for the clean stripped-back landscape. If you want something that photographs like New York without looking like every other Central Park session, Carl Schurz is worth considering.
