What actually is the Highline? When we come to New York in a few weeks, if I have time for an extended walk on a summer weekend, should I visit the Highline or simply go to Central Park?

Visiting the Highline is high on my list of things to do this summer; but I haven't been yet so I can't speak from personal experience. The Times has given the opening of this park a lot of attention. See:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/10/ar...gn/10high.html
http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/200...HOW_index.html

Have you been to New York before? I think that would probably skew recommendations based on whether this was a first or second visit or if you've been several times.

The Highline is a narrow, long elevated area near the Hudson part of which has been developed into a parklike space. Google it for info.

Can't imagine why to go there - unless youlive right nearby - versus Central Park, which is enormous and has a whole host of activties (biking, rowing on the lake, Carousel), tours and sights (zoo, Strawberry Fields).

Here are some shots from the High Line's past. The best images are at the bottom:

http://www.forgotten-ny.com/SUBWAYS/...e/newhigh.html

Thanks for the link Anon -- While I am a major fan if Central Park - If the OP has the time and is in the neighborhood the Highline is well worth a visit.

Thanks for the information. I live in Chicago but was born and raised in New York. I've been reading in New York Magazine about the Highline but didn't know if it was really something special. If I do go there, any thoughts as to where I should eat?

I actually went this weekend--I really enjoyed it--but you have to prepare yourself to not be alone. I think if you're into photography it's particularly worth a visit as there are so many cool vantage point from which to take photos. I went when it looked like it might rain thinking there would be no one there. The crowds weren't as crazy as I've heard they've been but it is still a pretty narrow walkway considering the flow of people. If I manage to get some of my photos up tonight I'll post a link.

Can't really recommend any restaurant nearby. I started at the 20th street entrance and left at the other end at Gansevoort and then walked to the West Village (lots of good restaurants there).

If taking guests from out of town, I'd probably do the walk in the opposite direction and leave at 20th street---I'd then walk over to 9th avenue, walk down, and grab a bit at Chelsea Market at 16th street and then onto the Apple store at 14th (for some reason when I have friends visit they always seem to want to stop at the Apple store).

For a top restaurant in the High Line area - Del Posto. Main dining room is somewhat on the expensive side - but they also serve great cuisine in their bar area - so if you reserve (and you must) ask for that area - also a great piano player.