Manhattan · New York County
Pier 55 / Little Island
Waterfront / Island Park
- Location
- Hudson River Park at West 13th Street, Meatpacking District
- Size
- 2.40 acres
- Hours
- Varies seasonally (free timed tickets may be required)
- Type
- Waterfront / Island Park
Pier 55, better known as Little Island, is a 2.4-acre park built on 132 sculptural concrete pots rising from the Hudson River at the site of former Pier 54, near West 13th Street. Opened in 2021, it is among the most architecturally ambitious public spaces ever constructed in New York City. (See Little Island entry for full details.)
The park's structure of tulip-shaped concrete columns creates an undulating topography with hills, valleys, walkways, and three performance venues. Designed by Thomas Heatherwick with landscape architecture by Signe Nielsen, the park was funded primarily by Barry Diller and Diane von Furstenberg.
Performance venues include The Amph, a 687-seat amphitheater; The Glade, an intimate clearing among trees; and a smaller stage for casual events. The park hosts a dense calendar of free and ticketed performances including music, dance, theater, and spoken word throughout the warmer months.
The park's landscaping features over 400 species of plants chosen to provide year-round visual interest and support local wildlife. From the island's highest point, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River, the Manhattan skyline, and the New Jersey waterfront.
Pier 55 / Little Island has quickly become one of New York City's most visited and photographed new attractions, demonstrating that innovative design and private philanthropy can create public spaces of extraordinary ambition and beauty.