The island off of an island is breathing new life into the city, just in time for summer.
Little Island on Manhattan's West Side is now open
It’s been seven years in the making. Now, Little Island — a free public park and green space is finally open to the public.
Built on what was formerly Pier 54 on West 13th street along New York’s Hudson River, Little Park is one the first public green spaces to open in the city since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The park will not only provide a sense of refuge for New Yorkers and visitors, but will also serve as a new performance venue and cultural space. Of course, the views don’t hurt either.
Among a few of the highlights visitors can expect inside the 2.5 acre park are a 687-seat amphitheater, a central plaza with seating that serves food and beverages called ‘The Play Ground,’ an intimate stage and lawn space called ‘The Glade’ and of course spectacular views over New York City.
Designed by Thomas Heatherwick of Heatherwick Studio and funded in large part by The Diller von Furstenberg Family Foundation, the opening of Little Island comes at a time when New York City prepares for the summer season. After more than a year of restrictions and closures, the timing couldn’t be better.
Opened on May 21 nearly seven years after plans were unveiled, Little Island is now open to the ... [+]
“I hope Little Island will serve as a whimsical oasis for everyone who visits, a place to wander around and be happily surprised at every turn, to lounge and graze the landscape, and to be entertained, educated and stimulated by our programming,” Barry Diller said in a statement.
With its own independent arts programming set to begin in June, Little Island will host hundreds of local artists and performers, and offer free programming for visitors of all ages.
Little Park is completely free of charge to visit and now open daily with timed reservations required between the hours of 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm. You can arrange a time to visit online at www.LittleIsland.org.
