Tucked away along the East River, NYC’s Lower East Side is home to a set of oversized wooden swings, and they’re one of NYC’s most peaceful hidden gems. Perfect for breezy summer afternoons, golden hour hangs, and skyline views you’ll want to come back for again and again.
If you thought swings were just for kids, think again. Located on Pier 35–the future site of NYC’s long await floating Plus Pool–with entrances at Jefferson Street and Clinton Street, these massive, sculptural swings are built for lounging and swaying with a view, framed by the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges and cooled by the waterfront breeze.
Though the swings have been around since 2019, they remain one of NYC’s best-kept secrets, and they’re the perfect excuse to spend a sunny day by the water.
The four oversized wooden swings hang beneath a sleek canopy on a raised platform, just steps from the East River. Surrounded by native grasses and minimalist seating, the swings sit within a landscaped park–tucked underneath the FDR highway–that’s designed for both calm and community.
🌿 What else is at Pier 35?
The remainder of Pier 35 features:
- A dog run
- A basketball and handball court
- A skate zone
- Fitness equipment
- A unique ecological zone called “Mussel Beach,” which supports mussel habitat restoration along the riverbank
Designed by SHoP Architects in partnership with NYC Parks, Pier 35 is part of a larger mission to transform the Lower Manhattan waterfront into an accessible, eco-friendly public space. With its combination of waterfront vibes, open air, and hidden-gem status, this is certainly one of those places that makes you fall in love with NYC all over again.
Whether you’re looking to relax with a book, catch a quiet sunset, or just enjoy a moment of stillness in the city, these swings offer one of the best views in town.
🌇 Know Before You Go:
- Location – Pier 35, South Street & Jefferson Street
- Hours – Open daily from dawn to dusk
- Cost – Free
- Best Time to Visit – Sunset or weekday afternoons for fewer crowds
✨ Looking for more hidden waterfront gems?
- This 3.5-acre downtown waterfront park just reopened after two years, boasting views of the New York Harbor and Statue of Liberty
- Freedom Plaza is another favorite–5 acres of green space with harbor views, lawns, and public art