Dive in, it’s time to celebrate City of Water Day on Saturday July 25!
Event Details
Add to CalendarDid 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 during annual event is organized by the Waterfront Alliance, NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program.
City of Water Day brings together many partners across our region to offer inspiring events that share the importance of a resilient and equitably shared waterfront.
Please note that the information below is subject to change. For the most up to date information on programs and hours, please visit each program’s website directly.
Right here in Hudson River Park, you will find a wide range of free events including kayaking, sailing, fishing, 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.
Schedule of Events
Lilac Preservation Project: Poets Afloat Tribeca Reading
4:00–5:00 PM
Pier 25 at N Moore St.
Maybe you’ve been to a poetry reading, but have you been to one on board a ship? Since 2019 Poets Afloat has been pairing poets with historic vessels in mini-residencies. This reading will feature poets who have composed verses aboard New York’s fleet of historic ships.
Downtown Boathouse: Free Public Kayaking
10:00 AM–4:30 PM
Pier 26 at Laight Street
Have you ever wanted to kayak on the Hudson River? Join the Downtown Boathouse for a free, welcoming public kayaking experience and see New York City from the water. Guests will receive basic paddling and safety instruction, be fitted with a PFD, and paddle in a protected area with trained volunteers nearby. No experience is needed, and children are welcome with a parent or guardian.
Hudson River Park’s River Project: Wetlab Look-ins
11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Pier 40 at W Houston Street
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.
Hudson River Park’s River Project: Big City Fishing
11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Pier 51 at W 12 St.
Over 200 species of fish are found in the Hudson River, including more than 85 species in Hudson River Park’s Estuarine Sanctuary waters.
Anglers ages 5 and up are invited to participate in Big City Fishing, with parental supervision required. All the necessary equipment is provided and an on-site fishing tutorial. Participation is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Beginners and experts alike are encouraged to join for a relaxing and educational experience at the water’s edge.
Hudson River Park’s River Project: Discovery Tank Guided Gallery
11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Pier 57 at W 15 St.
Explore local wildlife and waterways at the Pier 57 Discovery Tank! The Park’s Discovery Tank is an interactive technology-powered gallery and classroom at Pier 57 that is free for the public to enjoy. Budding scientists of all ages can dive into hands-on STEM activities focused on monthly themes to learn about the environment from our knowledgeable River Project team.
Hudson River Community Sailing: Free Sailing Community Day
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Pier 66 at W 26 St.
Have you always wanted to give sailing a try? This is the perfect opportunity. Hudson River Community Sailing is offering free one-hour sails on City of Water Day! Under the guidance of an HRCS Skipper, you can learn how to steer and control the sails while enjoying spectacular views of the city. Open to participants 5 years old and up (under 18 with a parent or guardian). All participants must wear an HRCS-provided PFD. No swimming or sailing experience required.
Manhattan Community Boathouse: Free Public Kayaking
1:00–6:00 PM
Pier 96 at W 55 Street
Manhattan Community Boathouse will be providing the equipment, instruction and oversight you need to experience a safe, fun and free afternoon of kayaking on the Hudson River. The program is beginner-friendly and no prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or guardian) and know how to swim. Come dressed to get wet! Lockers and locks will be provided to keep valuables dry and on-site changing rooms will be available for use.
Visit cityofwaterday.org for more details on how you can take part in this year’s City of Water Day!
