Frequently asked questions

What time do you shut down the Piers? What about the Park in general?
Most areas of the park, including the piers, close at 1 AM. The bike path is open 24 hours-a-day, and several areas (such as playgrounds) close at dusk. Some special areas of the park may close earlier.

When do the park's playgrounds close?
The playgrounds close at dusk.

What time do the restrooms close?
All park bathrooms close at dusk, except as otherwise posted, or unless, at the discretion of the Trust, a specific event necessitates bathroom access after dusk.

Does my dog have to be on a leash at all times?
Dogs in the park are required to be on a leash not longer than 6 feet. There are three dog runs in the park – one in the Village at Leroy St, one at 22nd Street and 11th Avenue and one on Pier 84 at W.44th St. Dogs may run free, without leashes, in the dog runs.

What time do the dog runs close?
Dog runs close at 1 am, like the rest of the Park.

Why can't I drink from the display fountains? Can my dog go in the fountains?
Hudson River Park Rule 751.6(s) Unhygienic Use of Fountains, Pools, and Water states: “It is illegal for any person to use, or permit any animal under his or her control to use any water fountain, drinking fountain, pool, sprinklers or any other water contained in the park for the purpose of washing or cleaning himself or herself, his or her clothing or other personal belongings. This subdivision does not apply to those areas within the Park which are specifically designated as water fountains for use by animals, or which are specifically designated for personal hygiene purposes (i.e., bathroom, shower room, etc.) provided, however, it is illegal for any person to wash his or her clothes or personal belongings in such areas.” Moreover, the water purification system for the fountain is adequate for display use, but is not designed for consumption. There are drinking fountains for consumption throughout the park, and the dog runs are also equipped with water for animals' consumption.

Is there a mooring field? Why isn't it downtown by Pier 25?
Hudson River Park's mooring field is in the area immediately south of Pier 40. Due to the current construction schedule for Tribeca, the Trust will maintain the mooring field at its current location until completion of Pier 25.
Moorings at Pier 40

Can I use my jet ski in Hudson River Park waters?
No, park rules prohibit use of jet skis in the park.
Boating in the sanctuary

Why do I need a permit to distribute flyers or other written material in the Park?
Not all distribution of written material requires a permit. However, Section 751.6(t) of our park rules prohibits the distribution or posting of signs, leaflets or other printed materials for a commercial purpose without a permit. Also, while the Trust in no way intends to impede any 1st Amendment rights, unlimited or unrestricted distribution of print materials in the park can create health and safety hazards. The Trust therefore must have discretion to insure the health and safety of its park patrons.

Why can't I ride my bike on the esplanade?
The esplanade is designed for use by pedestrians. The bikeway is merely a few feet away and provides approximately five miles of dedicated paths for bicyclists, un-motorized scooters and rollerbladers. The Trust requires that bicyclists who wish to enjoy the esplanade dismount their bikes and walk them through the esplanade area, thereby allowing pedestrians to enjoy the Park without fear of being struck by bikers. Rollerbladers may keep their rollerblades on in the esplanade area, but are required to maintain a walking pace. Anything faster necessitates use of the bike path.

Can I go to use the playgrounds if I don't have a child with me?
No, you need to have a child to enter the playground areas. Like other NYC-area playgrounds, Hudson River Park restricts use of children’s playgrounds to children under the age of 12 and the adults who accompany them.

Can I use the ballfields without a permit?
All groups using the Pier 40 Recreation Fields or the Chelsea Waterside Park Field must obtain a written permit from Hudson River Park Trust unless otherwise posted. Call the Permit office at 212-627-2020 or review the permits section of this website for more information.
Obtain a permit