Hudson River Park

The Basics

Hudson River Park is expansive, running from Chambers Street in Lower Manhattan to West 59th Street, off Columbus Circle. The park offers recreational areas, bike paths, sports facilities, and dog parks. Because of its size, many guided neighborhood tours pass by or through it. Bike (or e-bike) tours are ideal, since you can cover the park's waterfront quickly on protected cycling paths.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Hudson River Park is the longest riverfront park in the US, and includes a greenway—a dedicated area for walking and biking.

• Kids enjoy the playground at Waterside Park on 24th Street.

• Sports fans should check out Chelsea Piers to try skating or hitting balls at the batting cages.

• Glimpse the park from the water on a Hudson River cruise; tours are typically offered throughout the day, and some provide drinks and dinner.

How to Get There

Hudson River Park covers a long swath of Manhattan, from Greenwich Village to Midtown West. Through you can pop in at several locations, your best bet is starting near the south end. Arrive at 40 Hudson River Greenway via subway. Take the 1 or 2 train to Houston Street. Alternatively, you can take the A, B, C, D, E, or F trains to West 4 Street-Washington Square.

When to Get There

Most public areas of the park close daily at 1am, and playgrounds close at dusk, but the bike path remains open to cyclists 24 hours a day. The park is an ideal place to soak up the sun in June, July, and August. In winter, expect winds blowing off the Hudson, so dress for cold weather. To avoid the crowds, come during the week—the park is busiest on Saturday and Sunday.

Where to View Public Art

Find numerous sculptures on display in Hudson River Park. Highlights include a monument to the LGBTQ community, located on 12th Street, andLong Time, a working water wheel at 26th Street. For a taste of history, check out the 1960s ceramic mural inside Pier 40, created by artist Frank Nix, which calls back to the era when Holland-America line ships departed the terminal.

Ways to explore

The tranquil setting of Hudson River Park provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan’s streets. The park has more than a dozen public piers, including Pier 40, which has athletic fields; Pier 45 (Christopher Street Pier), a popular sunbathing spot; and Pier 86, home of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Because of its size, many guided neighborhood tours pass by or through Hudson River Park. Bike or e-bike tours are ideal, since you can easily follow the park’s long waterfront stretch on an adjacent bike path.

Accessibility

Hudson River Park is wheelchair accessible. Accessible restrooms are throughout the park.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, blanket, refillable water bottle (water fountains are available in spring and summer)

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, sunscreen, light layer in summer (it can get cool by the water)

Not allowed

Alcohol, barbecuing, smoking, drones, cycling on pedestrian paths

Amenities

Restrooms, bike rentals (Pier 84), water fountains

Address

Hudson River Park runs from 59th Street in the north to Battery Park in the south of Manhattan. It has various entry points, all of which are easily accessible via subway or bus.

Driving

Paid parking garages in Hudson River Park are located at Pier 40 and Pier 83. Otherwise, skip the stress of NYC traffic by hailing a cab or booking a rideshare service.

Public transportation

Given its size, you can access Hudson River Park at various points. For the south end, take the 1 or 2 train to Houston Street (a 10-minute walk) or the A, B, C, D, E, or F train to West 4th Street-Washington Square (15 minutes). The SIM7 and SIM9 buses stop at West Houston Street/Washington Street, which is a 5-minute walk.

Best times to visit

Visit early in the morning for the most tranquil experience.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends.

Best months to visit

June, July, and August offer the best weather to soak up the sun on the lawns

Special events

The park hosts an array of events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Blues BBQ Festival, which brings live music, smoked meat, and games to the park every August.