Want to do something really special this summer in NYC? Then kayaking in New York’s rivers is probably just the right thing for you – and best of all, it’s free!
Renting a kayak in New York City
There are several providers in New York where you can rent a kayak. Most of them are located on the Hudson River on the west side of Manhattan. However, you can also rent a kayak in Brooklyn to explore the East River. What makes it even better: you can rent the kayaks for free.
For us, this is one of the best free activities in New York in summer. Be sure to give it a try!
Where can you rent kayaks?
Manhattan Community Boathouse Pier 96 Hudson River Park
The Manhattan Community Boathouse at Pier 96 is not far from Central Park. 59 St-Columbus Circle is the nearest subway station, which you can reach with lines .
When?
- May 24 to October 12: Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- June 2 to August 26: Mondays and Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Downtown Boathouse Pier 26 in Manhattan
The Downtown Boathouse is located at Pier 26 in downtown Manhattan, not far from the Ghostbusters Headquarters. The nearest subway station is Canal St, which is served by lines , , , and .
When?
- May 24 to October 5: Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closed on August 10)
- June 17 to August 14: Tuesday & Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- August 19 to 28: Tuesday & Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse Pier 4 Beach
The Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse is easy to find: It is located at Pier 4 of the Brooklyn Bridge Park. The nearest subway stations are Clark St or Borough Hall, both of which can be reached with lines and .
When?
- Last Wednesday in May until the end of August: every Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday
- in September only on Saturdays
New York in summer
You can find even more tips for summer in New York in our summer special!
