Little Island | New York

Little Island is an innovative and visually striking public park located on Manhattan’s west side, in the Hudson River at Pier 55, between West 13th and West 14th Streets. It opened to the public in May 2021 and quickly became one of New York City’s most unique green spaces and cultural destinations.

Location and Concept

Address: Pier 55, Hudson River Park, Manhattan, NYC

Neighborhood: Meatpacking District / Chelsea waterfront

Setting: Unlike typical parks on land, Little Island is a floating park built on the Hudson River itself, creating an extraordinary landscape experience over the water.

Developer: The park was a private-public partnership project led by the Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation with support from the city and state.

Design and Architecture

Unique Structure: Little Island is supported by 132 concrete “tulip-shaped” pilings, also called “pots,” which rise from the riverbed and support the park’s soil and landscaping above the water. These pots vary in height, giving the park a distinctive rolling, hilly terrain, unlike any other park in NYC.

Size: The park covers about 2.4 acres suspended above the river.

Architects: Designed by Heatherwick Studio (UK) in collaboration with landscape architects Mathews Nielsen and engineering firm Arup.

Landscape and Features

Plantings: Over 350 species of plants, including 35 tree species, 65 shrub species, and 270 varieties of perennials and grasses, are thoughtfully arranged to provide seasonal color, texture, and wildlife habitat.

Topography: The park’s elevation ranges create a series of hills, pathways, and open spaces with dramatic views of the Manhattan skyline and river.

Paths & Walkways: Curving pathways wind throughout the park, guiding visitors through a variety of garden settings and seating areas.

Public Art: The park includes integrated artworks and sculptural elements enhancing the visitor experience.

Performance Spaces

Amphitheater: Little Island includes a 687-seat amphitheater designed for outdoor performances. It hosts a wide range of cultural programming including concerts, dance, theater, and family events.

Event Lawn and Stage: A smaller, intimate performance area offers flexible space for various events and gatherings.

Programming: Many events are free or low-cost, though some ticketed performances require advance reservation. The park’s programming aims to engage a diverse community.

Visitor Information

Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

Admission: Free entry for the park itself. Ticketed events may have fees or require advance registration.

Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible, with ramps, elevators, and smooth pathways allowing visitors of all mobility levels to enjoy the park.

Amenities: Benches, seating areas, restrooms nearby (though the park itself has limited facilities), and wayfinding signage.

Getting There

Subway:

A, C, E, L trains to 14th Street / 8th Avenue (about a 5-minute walk)

1, 2, 3 trains to 14th Street / 7th Avenue

F, M trains to 14th Street / 6th Avenue

Bus: M11, M12, M14D SBS along 14th Street or 10th Avenue.

Bike: Bike racks available outside the park on the Hudson River Park Esplanade. Bikes are not permitted inside the park. Citi Bike stations are nearby.

Walking: Accessible via the Hudson River Park walkway, which runs along the waterfront and connects to other parks and neighborhoods.

Nearby Attractions

The High Line: An elevated park on a historic rail line, featuring gardens, art, and views — a short walk south.

Chelsea Market: A famous food hall and shopping destination near 15th Street.

Whitney Museum of American Art: Located just a few blocks away in the Meatpacking District.

Hudson River Park: Extends along Manhattan’s west side offering miles of waterfront green space, piers, and recreational facilities.

Experience and Highlights

Little Island offers a rare blend of natural beauty, urban design innovation, and cultural programming.

Its location provides spectacular views of the Hudson River, New Jersey skyline, and the Manhattan skyline, including landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Freedom Tower from different vantage points.

The rolling hills and landscaping create a playful, immersive environment inviting visitors to explore, relax, picnic, and enjoy outdoor performances.

Little Island is a pioneering model of how urban parks can integrate architecture, landscape, and culture in a dynamic, waterfront setting — a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a fresh way to experience New York City.