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Choose your color and square off in a game of giant Connect Four at Pier 57's indoor play space. 

What We Loved About Pier 57’s New Indoor Park

Pier 57 is part of Hudson River Park, so it’s FREE and open to the public. The space is small but lively, with two large wooden swings, a couple of lawn games, and lots of comfortable chairs for lounging.

My 4-year-old daughter and I enjoyed playing giant Connect Four and corn hole. The swings were lots of fun, and we also found a cozy corner to read a book together.

The floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Little Island and New York Harbor are what make this space such a delight. We all need more sunshine during the darkest days of the year, and this place delivers. A nursing mom and a handful of other parents were relaxing in Adirondack chairs facing the windows while their kids ran around and played. Tables and chairs are a few steps away, as well as a raised area with steps for seating (or climbing, although this was more of a quiet space where adults had laptops out).

The nearby Market 57 is a bright and airy indoor food hall with more than a dozen vendors. Kids can order a hot dog from Glizzy’s or tacos from Mijo, which also carries delicious gourmet popsicles by La Newyorkina. There’s a Korean bibimbap bar, a coffee shop, a Sahadi’s outpost serving up Mediterranean dishes, and several other yummy options.

A Few Things We Didn’t Love About Our Visit

The space wasn’t too crowded when we visited, but it could easily become chaotic on a Saturday, simply because it’s not very big. Since there are only a handful of activities for kids, we were bummed that one of the two giant Connect Four games was broken and unusable.

We also weren’t thrilled about the decision to allow leashed dogs in the playground space. A barking dog was hanging out right in the middle of the play area. It intimidated my daughter and made it hard to relax. We usually enjoy friendly, leashed dogs, but the space is just too small to accommodate both animals and humans, and the fake green turf material that covers the floor is bound to collect allergens.

Also, parents of little ones should keep a close eye on their babies and toddlers, especially near the wooden swings. Some older kids managed to get those bulky bench seats flying impressively fast and high. There were some close calls with toddlers, who could easily be knocked out if they get too close.

Pier 57's indoor space offers riverfront views and climate-controlled temps. 

Know Before You Go to Pier 57

• Pier 57 is open daily from 6am-1am. Market 57 is open from 11:30am-7pm daily.
• The indoor playground is a winter installation that's scheduled to be open through March 31, 2026.
• The space is wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly, and there are bathrooms on-site.
• Pier 57 also has an underrated rooftop park that’s great to visit when the weather is warmer.
• Mommy Poppins hosts free events at Pier 57 a few times a year. You can find our next free events on our Eventbrite page or search our calendar. 

What Other Attractions Are Nearby?

Pier 57 is in the middle of Hudson River Park, so there are tons of things to do nearby, including the playground at Pier 51. Little Island is right next door, and The High Line and Chelsea Piers are also in the neighborhood.

For more indoor activities, check out Chelsea Market or the Whitney Museum.

READ NEXT: 39 Free Places to Play Indoors in NYC

All photos by the author