NYC is a wonderful place to get in tune with nature, and if you're skeptical, look no further than Brooklyn Bridge Park.
The waterfront venue boasts a plethora of outdoor fun—sports fields, roller rinks, spray parks and even the opportunity to kayak in the East River. Nothing beats the backdrop of lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge while you paddle. Where else are you going to get such a spectacular view?
Now that the warm weather is approaching and New Yorkers are ready to ditch indoor activities, a wet adventure is obviously in order. To celebrate the occasion, Brooklyn Bridge Parks is extending its free kayaking services to three days a week. There's no excuse not to make your way to Pier 2 this season.
Photograph: Courtesy Etienne Frossard
Those families who are ready to embark on a Brooklyn adventure can head over to the park on Thursdays from 5:30–6:45pm (the newest day to hit the schedule), Saturdays from 10am–3pm and Sundays for Kayak Polo from 11am–3pm (the kids' session for those 11 and up takes place from 12:30–1:30pm). Mark your calendars: The season will kick off on May 31, and you're definitely going to want to arrive as early as possible.
Before making a trip, make sure to prepare yourself with the necessary garments and familiarize yourself with the boathouse rules. Attendees 14–17 years-old can kayak by themselves, as long as a guardian is present. Any child younger than 14 must be accompanied by a guardian in the same double kayak. For parents with a big crew, be ready to take turns kayaking with each child.
See you on the East River!
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Looking for more things to do outside? Don't worry—we will keep your itinerary booked. Make your way to the best kids' playgrounds, hit the water parks near NYC or take a day trip to fill your bellies with the best strawberry picking in New York.