East River Esplanade imagery

East River Esplanade

A waterfront esplanade and commercial center from The Battery to Pier 42 on Manhattan's East Side

THINGS TO DO

Strolling and views, cycling, dining, shopping, maritime history.

For all ages; handicapped-accessible

The East River Esplanade is a two-mile-long, public open space connecting the Whitehall Ferry Terminal and Peter Minuit Plaza to the south to East River Park to the north. In the coming years, as part of the continuing effort by the City of New York to revitalize Lower Manhattan, new sections of the esplanade will be built and several piers will be renovated and redeveloped to improve waterfront access, enhance pedestrian connectivity, and create amenities for public use and enjoyment. The new Esplanade will contribute greatly to improved quality of life for local residents, workers and visitors alike.

Portions of the Esplanade are currently open to the public, as is the South Street Seaport, a major dining and retail destination at Fulton Street and Pier 17, and the South Street Seaport Museum. Construction of the remainder of the Esplanade is planned to begin in 2008 and be completed by 2010.

When completed, the Esplanade will include:

  • Open space amenities for communities currently underserved by the City’s parks
  • Basic infrastructure improvements to support new waterfront and community activities
  • Piers 15, 35, 42 designed for public use
  • Space under the FDR Drive for community, cultural, and limited commercial development
  • Access to and around the Battery Maritime Building
  • Continuous bikeway/walkway along the waterfront connecting to the Manhattan Greenway