Did you know that New York City has 520 miles of coastline? Join us as we celebrate our city’s countless ways to connect with local waterways on Saturday July 16 during City of Water Day. This annual event is organized by the Waterfront Alliance, NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program and many other partners across our region offering inspiring events that share the importance of a resilient and equitably shared waterfront.
Right here in Hudson River Park, you will find a wide range of free events including kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, historic vessel tours, Hudson River wildlife and more! Read on to plan a perfect day on the water in Hudson River Park, and check out this map to explore City of Water Day events throughout New York and New Jersey.
Please note that the information below is subject to change. For the most up to date information on programs and hours, please visit each boathouse’s website directly.
Manhattan Community Boathouse
Public Kayaking (FREE)
Saturday July 16
12:00 – 6:00 PM
Pier 96 Boathouse at W. 57 St.
Join Manhattan Community Boathouse for an afternoon of free paddling. Be sure to allow time for waiting in line when planning your visit, and please note that you may not get a chance to kayak if you arrive less than an hour before they close.
Manhattan Kayak Company
Kayaking for Kids (FREE)
Saturday July 16
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Pier 84 Boathouse at W 44 St.
Sign up
During this session, kids three and up will learn on easy kayaks in the calm water along the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum. Adults are required to accompany kids ages three to 14. Lesson and equipment included.
Summer Splash for Dogs (FREE)
Saturday July 16
5:00 – 6:00 PM
Pier 84 Boathouse at W 44 St.
Sign up
Visit the Manhattan Kayak Company to take your dog kayaking or paddle boarding. No experience needed. Get outfitted and learn basic strokes, then, paddle for 30 minutes with your dog. Dog lifejacket included.
John J. Harvey Fireboat
Public Trip (FREE)
Saturday July 16
12:00 PM & 2:00 PM
Pier 66 Maritime at W 26 St.
Sign up
Hop aboard the John J. Harvey, a fireboat moored at Hudson River Park’s Pier 66a. During this free tour, you can take in magnificent harbor views and learn about the vessel’s fascinating history.
New York Outrigger
Outrigger Canoe Paddling at Pier 66 (FREE)
Saturday July 16
11:15 AM & 12:15 PM
Pier 66 at W 26 St.
Sign up
The novice session will involve a 20-minute introductory land training to familiarize you with the technique, commands and safety protocols of the canoe. This is then followed by a 20 minute session on the water. This free activity is appropriate for age 14 and up and is available on a first-come first-served basis. Please arrive on time to join in.
Stand-up Paddleboarding at Pier 40 (FREE)
Saturday July 16
11:30 AM & 12:30 PM
Pier 40 at W Houston St.
Sign up
The novice session will involve a 20-minute introductory land training to familiarize you with dock safety and paddling technique. This is then followed by a 20 minute session on the water. Please arrive on time to participate in land training before you are able to paddle on the water.
Hudson River Park’s River Project
Wetlab Look-in (FREE)
Saturday July 16
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Pier 40 Wetlab at W Houston Street
Meet Hudson River wildlife in the Wetlab, our research aquarium that is free and open to the public. This flow-through aquarium houses dozens of species of fish and invertebrates all caught within the Park as part of an ongoing ecological survey. The Wetlab is a rotating live exhibit as animals are released throughout the season to ensure that their behaviors are minimally impacted. Celebrate City of Water Day by joining our River Project staff for a tour of this unique space between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to answer all your questions about local wildlife.
Lilac Preservation Project
Open Tours & Exhibition (FREE)
Saturday July 16
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Pier 25 at N Moore St.
Visit Lilac, America’s oldest and most intact Lighthouse Tender, to learn this fascinating vessel’s unique history and explore the175-foot ship’s deck and its inner workings. Tours offer a unique look into the story and mechanics of this historic vessel which was built in 1933. During a visit, you can also see the current exhibition on display: Graciela Cassel: River Dreams.