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Things To Do Along The Water In NYC

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While New York City is surrounded by water, most people do not go to the city to hangout around the waterfront. Most people like to wander the streets, go to Central Park, check out museums, and explore the food scene. However, there is so much to see and do along the waterfront. It’s definitely worth venturing out of the city to explore it.

Circle Line Sightseeing Tours

A white passenger ferry named "Circle Line XVII" is docked at a pier on a sunny day, with buildings and trees visible in the background.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Circle Line Sightseeing Tours offers a classic way to see New York City from the water, with unbeatable views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline. With multiple cruise options and expert narration, it’s a convenient and memorable experience for both tourists and locals. Whether you’re new to the city or showing guests around, Circle Line delivers iconic views and a smooth ride.

Pebble Beach

View of the Brooklyn Bridge spanning over the East River with Manhattan skyline in the background, seen from a rocky shoreline and greenery in the foreground.
Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele.

Pebble Beach in Brooklyn offers a quiet waterfront spot in DUMBO with incredible views of the Manhattan Bridge and skyline. Located along the East River, it’s a great place to relax, snap photos, or enjoy the sunset. Whether you’re exploring Brooklyn Bridge Park or just passing through, Pebble Beach is a scenic stop worth visiting.

Grand Ferry Park

Two empty benches face a river with the Williamsburg Bridge and New York City skyline in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele.

Grand Ferry Park is a small but peaceful waterfront park in Williamsburg with clear views of the Manhattan skyline and East River. It’s a quiet spot to relax on a bench, enjoy the breeze, or take in the sunset away from the crowds. Whether you’re on a walk or looking for a moment of calm, Grand Ferry Park offers a simple, scenic escape.

Little Island

Outdoor wooden amphitheater seating overlooks a river with a few people relaxing, city buildings visible across the water under a clear sky—one of the best things to do along the water in NYC.
Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele.

Little Island is a one-of-a-kind public park built on the Hudson River, offering a blend of nature, art, and design. With elevated pathways, performance spaces, and landscaped gardens, it’s a standout destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re here for a show or a stroll, Little Island delivers a fresh take on the NYC park experience.

Pier 57

A modern park with elevated platforms and greenery sits over the water, with the New York City skyline visible in the background.
Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele.

Pier 57 is a revitalized waterfront destination in Hudson River Park that combines rooftop views, local food vendors, and public gathering spaces. With its spacious rooftop park and access to the James Beard Market Hall, it’s a go-to spot for relaxing, dining, and taking in the city skyline. Whether you’re visiting for lunch or sunset views, Pier 57 offers a modern take on New York’s historic piers.

North 5th Street Pier and Park

A paved waterfront pier with benches extends toward the New York City skyline under a partly cloudy sky. A few people are seated or walking along the pier.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

North 5th Street Pier and Park is a peaceful waterfront escape in Williamsburg with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The park offers a mix of open space, shaded seating, and a scenic pier perfect for strolling or relaxing by the water. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, take photos, or catch the sunset in the heart of Brooklyn.

Bushwick Inlet Park

View of Manhattan skyline across the East River, seen from a rocky shoreline and cobblestone path on the Brooklyn side under a partly cloudy sky.
Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele.

Bushwick Inlet Park is a modern green space on the Williamsburg waterfront that blends recreation, sustainability, and skyline views. Featuring sports fields, native plant gardens, and eco-friendly design, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re here to play, relax, or explore, this park delivers a refreshing escape in the heart of Brooklyn.

Marsha P. Johnson State Park

Rocky shoreline in the foreground with the East River and New York City skyline, including the Empire State Building, in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele.

Marsha P. Johnson State Park is a vibrant waterfront destination in Brooklyn that honors the legacy of LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson. With scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, open green spaces, and community-centered art installations, it’s a unique spot for relaxation and reflection. Whether you’re planning a weekend picnic or exploring local history, this park offers a meaningful and memorable experience.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

A large gray aircraft carrier is docked at a city waterfront, with modern high-rise buildings in the background under a clear blue sky.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction located on a historic aircraft carrier docked on the Hudson River. Featuring real fighter jets, the space shuttle Enterprise, and hands-on exhibits, it offers an up-close look at military and aviation history. Whether you’re a history buff or visiting with family, the Intrepid delivers a powerful and educational experience.

Walk Over The Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge at night, illuminated with lights, with a few people walking along the pedestrian pathway and city buildings visible in the background.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Walking over the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do New York City experience, offering sweeping views of the skyline, Statue of Liberty, and East River. The iconic span connects Manhattan and Brooklyn with a dedicated pedestrian path perfect for sightseeing and photos. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, this walk always delivers a classic NYC moment.

Visit Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, surrounded by water with city buildings visible in the background.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Visiting Ellis Island offers a powerful glimpse into America’s immigrant history at the iconic gateway to the United States. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration features compelling exhibits and preserved facilities that tell the stories of millions who passed through. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, Ellis Island delivers an unforgettable and educational experience.

Visit Roosevelt Island

A stone lighthouse stands by the water with a city skyline and buildings in the background under an overcast sky.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Visiting Roosevelt Island offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Manhattan and the East River. Easily accessible by tram or subway, the island features parks, walking paths, and unique landmarks like the historic Smallpox Hospital ruins and a lighthouse. Whether you’re looking to explore or unwind, Roosevelt Island provides a quiet escape from the city’s hustle.

Rockefeller Park

View of a city skyline across a river with modern skyscrapers, a cloudy sky, tree branches above, and a black metal fence and streetlamp in the foreground.
Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele.

Rockefeller Park is a vibrant green space in Battery Park City offering waterfront views, walking paths, and public art installations. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing stroll, outdoor exercise, or enjoying the city skyline. Whether you’re a local or visitor, Rockefeller Park provides a peaceful urban oasis in Lower Manhattan.

Domino Park

A large brick industrial building with a tall smokestack and a modern glass rooftop addition, featuring a "Domino Sugar" sign, stands among city structures.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Domino Park is a lively waterfront park in Williamsburg that combines history, green space, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Featuring unique playgrounds, a waterfront promenade, and remnants of the old Domino Sugar Factory, it’s a must-visit spot for relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying a solo stroll, Domino Park offers a fresh perspective on Brooklyn’s waterfront.

Take The Ferry To Staten Island

A bright orange Staten Island Ferry crosses the river with the Manhattan skyline visible in the background on a clear day.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Taking the Staten Island Ferry is a free and iconic way to see the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan skyline from the water. The ferry runs frequently between Staten Island and Manhattan, offering stunning views without the cost of a tour. Whether you’re commuting or sightseeing, the Staten Island Ferry is a must-do New York experience.

Little Red Lighthouse

A small red lighthouse stands near a rusted metal bridge structure, surrounded by trees and fenced off from the public.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Visiting the Little Red Lighthouse offers a charming and historic stop beneath the George Washington Bridge. This small, iconic lighthouse is a unique piece of New York City’s maritime history and a great spot for photos and quiet reflection. Whether you’re exploring the Fort Washington Park or just passing by, the Little Red Lighthouse is a hidden gem worth seeing.

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A person with long hair and glasses holds a camera, smiling while wearing a dark green sweater.

Kailey was born and raised in Connecticut. She grew up in Southeastern Connecticut close to the shoreline. She enjoys spending time going to local areas and parks with my family and friends.

In her free time, Kailey enjoys hiking, exploring New England, photographing wildlife, crafting, and playing guitar and piano.

Kailey posts most of her photographs from her travels on her Facebook page. You can also follow her on Instagram. Be sure to follow to see her travel and wildlife photographs!

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4 Comments

  1. This is the perfect list of places of where to see the beautiful Manhattan skyline along the waterfront. Wishing I knew to visit Rockefeller Park on my last trip to NYC. Sounds so nice!

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