Question 1

Where is Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Pier 35 is on Manhattan's Lower East Side along the East River Esplanade, near FDR Drive, Jefferson Street, and Clinton Street.

Question 2

Is Pier 35 free to visit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pier 35 is a free outdoor public waterfront park and does not require admission.

Question 3

What is the best time to photograph Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Clear mornings and golden hour are usually best for Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, and East River skyline photos.

Question 4

Is Pier 35 a park or a working pier?

Accepted Answer

Pier 35 is a public pier park with seating, lawns, swings, and ecological features. Visitors should still stay aware near the waterfront edge and active esplanade paths.

Question 5

What are the nearest subway stations?

Accepted Answer

Common approaches include East Broadway, Delancey St-Essex St, Grand St, or walking east from Chinatown and the Lower East Side.

Question 6

Who designed Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Pier 35 was designed by SHoP Architects with landscape architecture by Ken Smith Workshop as part of the East River Waterfront Esplanade.

Question 7

When did Pier 35 open?

Accepted Answer

Pier 35 opened to the public in 2019 as a major piece of the East River Waterfront redevelopment.

Question 8

How big is Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

The pier is commonly described as a 60,000-square-foot public space with a green wall more than 300 feet long.

Question 9

What is Mussel Beach?

Accepted Answer

Mussel Beach is a designed tidal habitat at Pier 35 that uses textured concrete, boulders, and changing water levels to support and reveal river ecology.

Question 10

What should I visit near Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Nearby pairings include Chinatown, the Lower East Side, Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge views, Pier 17, DUMBO, and the East River Esplanade.

Question 11

How long should I plan for Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Most visitors should plan 20 to 60 minutes depending on swing waits, photo goals, and whether they study Mussel Beach and the green wall.

Question 12

Are there restrooms at Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Pier 35 is primarily an outdoor waterfront stop. Check nearby parks, food halls, or mapped public restroom listings before arriving if restroom access is important.

Question 13

Can adults use the Pier 35 swings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The porch swings are a public feature, but visitors should share time during busy periods and avoid crowding the platform.

Question 14

Can I fly a drone at Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Do not assume drone flight is allowed. New York City airspace and park rules are restrictive; use official city and FAA guidance before any drone operation.

Question 15

Do I need a permit for commercial photography at Pier 35?

Accepted Answer

Casual visitor photography is generally fine. Commercial productions, equipment-heavy shoots, or disruptive filming may require permits from the relevant city offices.

Question 16

Is Pier 35 wheelchair accessible?

Accepted Answer

The East River Esplanade and main pier paths are designed for public access, though visitors should check current conditions after storms or construction changes.

Everything you need to know.

Common Questions

Visit Basics

Design & Ecology

Route Planning

Rules & Etiquette