Though these swings have been on the Lower East Side since spring 2019, they’re still just a little under-the-radar. And now that the weather is finally warming up there’s no better place to spend a sunny spring day!
Located along the East River on Pier 35–with entrances at Jefferson Street and Clinton Street–the enormous swings are part of the redevelopment of the East River Waterfront Esplanade.
The area is a two-mile-long, city-owned public open space offering community programming, recreation, and unparalleled NYC waterfront views.
The park area is tucked underneath the FDR highway and hangs right over the East River.
The four giant Pier 35 swings (that offer the perfect spot for viewing the sunset right over the water!) are on a raised platform and hang from a canopy.
There is also a dog run, exercise features, a ball court, skateboard area, and plenty of other seating options for kicking back and relaxing.
Since 2004, architecture firm SHoP has been designing and developing projects to reclaim and reinvigorate this long-neglected stretch of Lower Manhattan riverfront.
Along with the NYC Parks Department they also created an innovative habitat restoration component, known as Mussel Beach, which provides an ideal location for mussel restoration.
📍 Pier 35 – South Street & Jefferson Street
Written by Claire Leaden and Brianna Perry