9. Riverside Park South

Benches with stunning views of the Hudson River stretch endlessly down the Upper West Side. A particularly notable stopping point is the refurbished Riverside Park South. The park is situated along a strip of shoreline that stretches from 72nd Street to 59th Street; the area was formerly the rail yards of the Penn Central railroad company. In redesigning the landscape, architects saw an opportunity to create innovative and unique designs— even with the seating! Read more about the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway.

8. Federal Plaza (Demolished)

For a period of time, these fun benches sat in front of Federal Plaza, where the Jacob K. Javits Federal Office Building and Court of International Trade is. These benches by Martha Schwartz were based upon the classic design of the Central Park benches, but they take on a much more whimsical shape. From above, the plaza looks almost alien. [Update: Unfortunately, this installation has been demolished]