John D. Rockefeller, Jr. began acquiring private parcels in 1917 as part of his vision of developing a beautiful park with majestic views of the Hudson River and Palisades for the public. He enlisted the Olmsted Brothers Firm, led by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., son of the architect of Central Park and his brother to develop a plan for the park in 1927. The Olmsted Brothers designed the park and oversaw its construction between 1931 and 1935. Rockefeller gifted the land to the City of New York in 1931, and construction began soon after, overseen by the Olmsted Brothers firm for Mr. Rockefeller. In 1935, Rockefeller and Robert Moses dedicated the park to the public for use. Here are some of the highlights:

Heather Garden – a very charming garden, with its 500 varieties of plants, trees, and shrubs. Throught the paths, you will see some benches to seat.

Billings Lawn – lawn that sits on one of the park’s highest points – which provides incredible views of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge.

Billings Mansion – down the Billings Lawn, you will find stone arches, which once served as an entrance way for the estate before it burned to the ground in 1925. The mansion was built by a wealthy horseman from Chicago named Cornelius K.G. Billings, who spent more than $2 million. The place was so impressive that it drew the attention of John D. Rockefeller Jr., who bought the mansion in 1917. Later, in 1925, a fire destroyed Billings Mansion and all that remains are the small frame and stucco gatehouse that we see today. It is so beautiful!

Linden Terrace – “terrace” with a privileged view of the Hudson River – is usually a place for weddings held in the park.