You Can't Hide From Me, I'm Everywhere: A Guide to NYC's Wet Stuff
Ah, New York City. The city that never sleeps, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of... and apparently, a place where folks get confused about what's surrounding them? Because let's be honest, for a city nicknamed "The Big Apple," you'd think everyone would know what kind of fruit it's bobbing around in.
That's right, we're talking about bodies of water, folks! And yes, NYC has more H2O companions than a mermaid convention.
What Body Of Water Is Near New York City |
The Big Kahuna: The Atlantic Ocean
Let's start with the granddaddy of them all, the vast and mighty Atlantic Ocean. This salty giant laps up against the southern shores of Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, providing stunning views (and sometimes, depending on the day, a rather pungent aroma thanks to nearby sewage treatment plants, but hey, you can't have everything!).
Fun Fact: Did you know that the Atlantic Ocean is actually getting wider? Continents are slowly drifting apart, which means your great-great-great-grandkids might need a bigger boat for that Coney Island trip.
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
A Tale of Two Bays: Upper New York Bay and Lower New York Bay
Now, things get a little more interesting. Nestled between the city and the Atlantic are these two intricate bays, Upper and Lower. Think of them as the Atlantic Ocean's VIP lounge, where only the coolest ships and ferries get to hang out. The Upper New York Bay is where you'll find Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty - basically, history buffs' paradise.
The Lower New York Bay, on the other hand, is all business. This is where the big cargo ships come in to unload their treasures (think fancy Italian shoes and questionable tourist souvenirs).
The Other Wet Players: The Hudson River, East River, and Long Island Sound
We can't forget about these other watery characters! The Hudson River, a historic waterway that winds its way down from upstate New York, forms the western border of Manhattan and provides a dramatic backdrop to the city skyline.
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
The East River, sandwiched between Manhattan and Queens, isn't quite a river, but more of a tidal strait that connects the Long Island Sound to the Upper New York Bay. Fun fact: The East River is actually saltwater, not freshwater!
And then there's Long Island Sound, a north-south body of water that separates Long Island from the mainland. Think of it as a watery highway for all sorts of boats, from kayaks to cruise ships.
So, there you have it! A crash course in NYC's aquatic neighborhood. Now you can impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of the Big Apple's watery companions.
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How To Frequently Asked Questions:
How to Befriend a Body of Water in NYC? Easy! Take a ferry ride, enjoy a waterfront stroll, or just have a picnic by the water.
How to Avoid Getting Lost at Sea in NYC? Stick to the designated swimming areas (beaches and public pools) and leave the high seas adventures to the professionals.
How to Tell the Difference Between a Bay and an Ocean? Think of a bay as a cozy cove tucked away within a larger body of water like the ocean.
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
How to Appreciate the NYC Waterfront Without Getting Soaked? There are plenty of waterfront restaurants and bars with stunning views. Sip a drink and enjoy the scenery!
How to Prove You're a True New Yorker? Be able to identify at least three different bodies of water surrounding the city. Now you're one of us!
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