Beauty By the Water: Randall's Island, art show & and Upper Far East Side

First we'll walk across the RFK (formerly Triborough) Bridge from E. 126th St. to Randall's Island, where we'll explore the gardens, meadows, wetlands, woodlands and riverside paths; we may see Monarch butterfliies in a garden planted for them, since this is migration season. After lunch (bring your own) overlooking the river, we'll return to Manhattan via the graceful 102nd St. pedestrian bridge. We'll walk along East River Esplanade, take a brief detour due to construction, get a glimpse of old Gracie Mansion, and wander through lovely Carl Schurz Park, where we will view an outdoor art show. Then we'll tour Henderson Pl. and Cherokee Pl, two obscure enclaves with elegant architecture. Next we'll visit John Jay Park overlooking the water, and finally walk to the Q train at 72nd St or the 6 train at 68th St.

DISTANCE: About 5 miles

FINISH AT: Around 5 PM, though you can leave earlier of course.

LUNCH: Bring your own. You can't buy food on our route at Randall's Island, though you can probably find something at 125th St where we're meeting. We'll start our late lunch at around 2:30 PM.

TRANSPORTATION: 4,5,6 train to 125th St. and Lexington. Or metro north to 125th and Park Ave. Please google MTA planned service changes for alterations on your subway lines.