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 13 during City of Water Day.
This annual event is organized by the Waterfront Alliance and NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program brings together 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 events that get you on the water including kayaking, outrigger canoeing, Hudson River wildlife tours, catch & release fishing workshops and more! Read on to plan a perfect day on the water in Hudson River Park, and check out this map of City of Water Day events throughout New York and New Jersey.
Pier 40: Hudson River Park’s River Project Wetlab
Wetlab Look-in
11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Meet Hudson River wildlife at the Wetlab, our research aquarium that is free and open to the public!
The Park’s Wetlab aquarium features Hudson River wildlife and provides guided tours for visitors of all ages. During Wetlab Look-ins, you can join a drop-in tour led by our River Project team to learn more about fascinating local wildlife including oyster toadfish, lined seahorses and blue crabs.
Pier 51: Big City Fishing
11:00 AM–2:00 PM
Drop a line during this free catch & release fishing program all summer long.
More than 200 species of fish are found in the Hudson River and its tributaries, with over 85 species in HRPK’s Estuarine Sanctuary waters. Join us on Pier 51 to make a fish wish — you might just get a bite.
Pier 57: Hudson River Park’s River Project Discovery Tank
Guided Gallery
11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Explore local wildlife and waterways at the Pier 57 Discovery Tank!
The Park’s Discovery Tank is an interactive technology-powered gallery and classroom that is free for the public to enjoy, with weekly Guided Gallery hours led by our River Project team.
Join us in the Discovery Tank to explore beneath the surface of the Hudson River through immersive games and meet the fascinating critters who call our local waterways home.
Pier 66: Community Sailing Day
Time to be announced
Get out on the Hudson River in an hour-long sail! All are welcome and invited to sail with HRCS in Chelsea.
Participants will go out with a certified instructor or volunteer, learn basic maneuvers and get hands-on, and see the city from a new perspective! Life jackets are provided and required. No swimming or sailing experience necessary. Participants must be at least 5 and weigh 50 lbs, and all children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Pier 96: Manhattan Community Boathouse
Public Kayaking
1:00–6:00 PM
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.
Outrigger Canoe Paddling and Standup Paddle Boarding
11:00 AM–12:00 PM
New York Outrigger will host free outrigger paddling and stand-up paddle boarding at Pier 96 at Hudson River Park. Guests will participate in land training to learn about paddling technique and safety, followed by an on-the-water session.
Event Details
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM