If you’re exploring Manhattan’s Hudson River waterfront, Little Island New York is one of the city’s most unusual parks. Rising from the river beside the West Village and Meatpacking District, this remarkable public space appears to float above the water. Supported by 280 tulip-shaped concrete columns of varying heights that create a gently undulating landscape of hills and pathways.
Little Island opened in 2021, quickly becoming one of New York’s most talked-about new attractions. Today, you can simply walk across the footbridge and explore the park without a reservation. This makes it an easy and memorable addition to a stroll along the Hudson River.
Before you cross one of the two wooden footbridges onto Little Island, take a moment to discover what makes this extraordinary waterfront park so special. There’s more to explore here than meets the eye. From its striking architecture and winding pathways to its gardens, views and cultural events.
The history of NYC’s Little Island
If you haven’t been to New York for a while, the west side of Manhattan looks a lot different. The strip of land between the Westside Highway and the Hudson used to be a no-go zone. A barren swath of land dominated by industrial warehouses and chain link fences. Thankfully, the area has been totally revamped. Now, there is a verdant park here along with several piers. The place now offers recreation and sports facilities, great views, and even a sandy beach.
In the space where Little Island sits (or floats) now, was the historic pier 54. Famously, Little Island New York was the docking point for the R.M.S. Carpathia, which brought survivors of the Titanic to land in 1912.
But the pier’s history goes far beyond its maritime past. From the 1970s onwards, Pier 54 became an important gathering place for New York’s LGBTQ+ community. It offered a space where people could socialise openly at a time when that wasn’t always easy elsewhere. From 1986, it also hosted Dance on the Pier, a hugely popular event that became part of New York’s annual Pride celebrations for more than two decades.
A different kind of public space
The pier was damaged beyond repair by Hurricane Sandy in November 2012. A year later, Barry Diller (founder of AIC Media and husband of fashion designer Diane von Furstenburg) proposed a new pier. However, this new pier would be something wildly different. It involved a total reimagining of public space; something the world had not yet seen.
Diller put up the funding and the went to work. He hired British designer Thomas Heatherwick (famous for creating the “Vessel” at Hudson Yards) and the landscape architecture firm MNL. Together, they came up with something astounding.
When it opened in May 2021, the island of more than 2 acres was eye candy for anyone who set their sights on it and smile-inducing for those who stepped foot on it. The island, after all, is so much more than a space dotted with maples, dogwoods, and honey locust trees.
Highlights of Little Island New York
The Gardens
Don’t make the mistake of treating Little Island as simply an architectural landmark. Much of its charm comes from the landscape itself. Follow the winding paths through gardens, lawns and planted areas. The elevation changes dramatically as you move around the island. There are quiet corners for sitting and plenty of opportunities to simply wander without following a particular route.
360º views
The pathways also provide spectacular Hudson River views and lead visitors to viewing platforms that offer a 360º panoramic view of the city and its iconic skyline.
Ampitheater – The Amph
Little Island’s 687-seat Amph is much more than a pretty performance space. Built into the landscape and facing the Hudson, the river and New Jersey skyline provide a spectacular backdrop. It hosts an eclectic programme of music, theatre, dance, opera and other performances. Some performances are ticketed, while other events around the park are free, so it’s worth checking the current programme before your visit.
The Glade
The Glade is Little Island’s smaller, more intimate performance space, tucked into the landscape at the base of a sloping lawn. It hosts a wonderfully varied programme of free performances, talks, storytelling, family events and other creative happenings. Unlike the Amph, many Glade events don’t require tickets. Therefore it is worth checking the website’s event page even if you haven’t planned your visit around a particular show.
Traveler’s tip: Headed to NYC for the first time and stumped on what to bring? Check out our Ultimate Packing List for New York City.
Where to eat on Little Island
Restaurants and Pop-ups
If you fancy a bite while exploring Little Island, you don’t need to leave the park. The island offers a curated selection of food, snacks and drinks from New York-based food businesses. You’ll find everything from casual bites and sweet treats to beer, wine and cocktails. The line-up changes throughout the season. Plus, a series of special food pop-ups add something new to the menu at selected events.
Pier 57
For an even bigger choice of food, cross over to Pier 57, directly beside Little Island. Its Market 57 food hall features a rotating collection of New York food vendors and the pier is also home to several restaurants and bars. Discover a range of everything from Japanese and Mexican to Mediterranean and classic American fare.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave without heading upstairs. Pier 57’s nearly two-acre rooftop park is open to the public and offers spectacular views of Little Island, the Hudson River and Lower Manhattan. It’s one of the best places to photograph the island from above, and a great spot to linger around sunset.
Planning your visit
Little Island is free to visit and normally doesn’t require a reservation. It opens from 6am throughout the year. Closing times vary by season and the park may close temporarily because of severe weather. Check the official website before setting out, particularly if you’re planning to attend a performance or visit during poor weather
For a deeper dive into the site’s fascinating past, download Little Island’s history audio tour. It explores everything from the area’s Indigenous history and maritime heritage to its important LGBTQ+ legacy. It’s an easy way to discover the stories behind the waterfront while you explore.
FAQs – Little Island New York
Is Little Island suitable for picnics?
Yes. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy in the park, making Little Island a great place for a casual picnic with views of the Hudson. Outside alcohol isn’t permitted, but you can purchase beer, wine and other drinks on the island. Keep in mind that seating can be limited during busy periods, so you may want to arrive early if you’re hoping to find a particularly good spot.
Are dogs allowed on Little Island?
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on Little Island, with the exception of working service dogs. If you’re exploring the Hudson River waterfront with your four-legged friend, you’ll need to enjoy Little Island from outside the park and explore the surrounding Hudson River Park instead.
Is there parking near Little Island?
There is no dedicated parking at Little Island, and driving isn’t the easiest way to visit. If you do decide to drive, you’ll need to use one of the nearby public parking garages in the Meatpacking District or Chelsea. For most visitors, walking, cycling or public transport is a much more convenient option. This is due to the fact that Little Island sits directly on Manhattan’s Hudson River Greenway.
How do we get to Little Island by Public Transport?
Getting to Little Island by public transport is easy. Several subway lines stop around 14th Street, including the A, C, E and L at 8th Avenue, the 1, 2 and 3 at 7th Avenue, and the F and M at 6th Avenue. From there, simply walk west towards the Hudson River. Alternatively, the M11, M12 and M14D-SBS buses stop at 14th Street and 10th Avenue, just a short walk from the park.
Have we woken your desire to discover more of New York City’s best-kept secrets?
Check out our small-group walking tours of NYC, with experiences ranging from touring the Statue of Liberty to exploring the hidden corners and fascinating history of Grand Central Terminal. Discover even more of the city’s hidden gems, and take a look at our New York City walking tours.
