Pier 84

Pier 84 is a significant public space within Hudson River Park, located on the west side of Manhattan in New York City. Stretching almost 1,000 feet into the Hudson River, this pier covers nearly 100,000 square feet, making it one of the largest piers on the Manhattan waterfront.

The pier is situated between two major attractions: the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and the Circle Line sightseeing cruises. Its central location near 42nd Street places it in the heart of Manhattan, making it easily accessible to both locals and tourists.

One of Pier 84's most distinctive features is its interactive fountain, which greets visitors as they enter the pier. This water feature is particularly popular during warm weather, attracting children and even some adults to cool off and play.

The pier offers various recreational opportunities. It houses a boathouse operated by Manhattan Kayak Company, which provides kayak and paddleboard rentals, lessons, and guided tours for visitors interested in exploring the Hudson River. There's also a dog run for pet owners and a community garden maintained by local residents.

For those seeking relaxation, Pier 84 features a gently sloping lawn area suitable for picnics and sunbathing. The pier also offers dining options, with a restaurant concession providing refreshments to visitors.

Pier 84 serves an educational purpose as well. It contains an environmental classroom where Hudson River Park's River Project conducts year-round programming focused on the Hudson River environment, covering topics such as water pollution and climate change.

Historically, the original Pier 84, built in 1924, played a significant role as an arrival point for various groups, including Olympic athletes, foreign dignitaries, and returning World War II soldiers. For many immigrants, it served as their first stop in America before being ferried to Ellis Island.