Little Island Visitors Guide: What to See, When to Go & How to Get the Best Views on a Jet Ski Tour
Little Island is one of New York City’s most creative public spaces—a floating park perched on whimsical, tulip-shaped concrete pillars. Crowds flock to its gardens, live shows, and interactive art installations, all tucked into this lively patch of green. Anchored off Pier 55 in Hudson River Park, it’s an urban gem you’ll definitely want to explore.
Most visitors explore it on foot, but there’s another way to take it all in—by jet ski! Sea the City’s guided tours pass right by Little Island and other gorgeous scenic points, giving you a front-row view from the Hudson that you simply can’t get on land.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to see, when to go, and how to get the most unique views of Little Island from the water.
What Is Little Island and Why Is It So Unique?
Whether you approach Little Island by land or from the water, its design immediately stands out. Rising above the Hudson River, this manmade park rests on 132 sculptural concrete columns shaped like tulips.
These striking supports hold massive planter-like pots filled with ornamental grasses, shrubs, and trees. All of it sits atop what was once a deteriorating pier at the edge of Manhattan.
Opened in 2021, Little Island was built as both a relaxing retreat and a creative gathering place in the far west side of Manhattan. Its sculptural layout, seasonal events, and riverfront setting have quickly made it one of New York City’s most distinctive and photographed destinations.
Best Things to Do at Little Island
Little Island Park’s 2.4-acre (0.97-hectare) footprint may be compact, but the design makes full use of every inch. Winding paths lead through multiple elevations, open-air stages, and lookout points that make the space feel much larger than it is.
Here’s more about the best things to do at the park.
Wander the Paths and Take in the Views
Stepping onto the park reveals it’s built for exploration. A mix of gently sloped paths, stairs, and winding trails guides you through changing elevations and quiet nooks.
These varied routes reveal scenic overlooks, playful features, and quiet spots to pause. You’ll find something new whether you’re walking solo or out with friends.
Additionally, the plantings at Little Island are arranged like a living canvas, with more than 350 species of trees, grasses, and shrubs designed to shift with the seasons. The result is a landscape that evolves throughout the year and looks different with each visit.
And if you’re looking to unwind, the park offers plenty of peaceful corners to read, stretch, or simply take in the surroundings.
Enjoy Live Performances
Enjoying live performances at the Amph or Glade venues is one of the most popular things to do at Little Island NYC. The Amph is an open-air venue with a thrust stage, wooden bench seating, and a clear sightline to the Hudson River. With space for up to 700 guests, it joins the smaller Glade venue in hosting pop-up performances throughout the year.
From June through September, you can catch music, art collectives, spoken word, dance, and seasonal galas. Tickets aren’t more than $25, and many events are completely free.
Grab a Snack or Bring Your Own
Little Island offers plenty of tasty options if you’re in the mood to snack. The food kiosks serve everything from hot dogs and ice cream to hand-shaken lemonade and social cocktails. On weekends starting at 3 p.m., you’ll find raw oysters with specialty toppings and chilled shrimp cocktail. Also, visitors can enjoy food and drinks throughout the park.
Want to bring your own bites? Picnics are welcome. Spread out on the lawn or grab a table in the playground area. The park’s tranquil river setting and stilted design make it an ideal place to relax with your own packed goodies.
Snap a Few Skyline Photos
Little Island offers some of the best views on the west side. From its elevated lookout points, you can see the Hudson River, the New Jersey skyline, and much of Hudson River Park. Turn toward Manhattan and you’ll spot iconic skyscrapers like One World Trade Center and the Empire State Building towering above the city. Some spots also reveal far-off bridges, depending on the vantage point and time of day.
Discover Interactive Installations and Rotating Cultural Events
Interactive installations like dance chimes, boulder scrambles, spinning discs, and outdoor musical instruments abound in the park. These features are integrated into the walkways to invite movement, exploration, and play. Little Island also presents rotating cultural performances throughout the season.
Notable past performers include:
- Grammy-winning artist Meshell Ndegeocello in No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin
- Playwright Suzan-Lori Parks with her musical project SLP & The Joyful Noise
- Sarah Gancher’s bluegrass-inspired adaptation of Eugene Onegin, directed by Rachel Chavkin.
Best Times to Visit Little Island
Little Island offers something different depending on the time of day. Some visits are about stillness and light, while others center on performances or seasonal color. Plan your visit based on what you most want to experience:
- Morning calm: Early in the day, the park feels open and unhurried. It’s a good time for a quiet walk, a solo coffee on a bench, or just enjoying the view without distraction.
- Golden hour: Late afternoon brings warm light and long shadows. This is when the plantings catch the sun just right and skyline views really pop—ideal for photos or a relaxed wander before dinner.
- Evening energy: After dark, the park takes on a more social feel. City lights reflect off the Hudson, and performances often take place in The Amph or The Glade. Even without a show, the atmosphere is worth a good lingering about.
- Seasonal tip: Spring and fall offer the most striking garden scenes. You’ll catch fresh blooms in the warmer months and rich colors and textures as the weather starts to cool.
See Little Island from the Water – On a Jet Ski Tour
One of the most exciting and up-close ways to experience Little Island and the surrounding skyline is from the water on the back of a jet ski. It’s equal parts Hudson River sightseeing and thrilling one-of-a-kind jet ski experience.
NYC jet ski tours with Sea the City depart from Jersey City, with easy access to Manhattan. As you ride out, the skyline rises in front of you, and the river opens wide.
You’ll cruise right past Little Island, close enough to wave at people walking along its paths. Look for the sculptural base beneath the park and the wooden pilings from the old Pier 54 out front, with the city skyline stretching behind it.
The launch point is easy to reach from the city, and once you’re on the water, it’s a nonstop sightseeing ride. You’ll get a rare, unobstructed view from below of Little Island’s tulip-shaped support columns rising out of the river. This angle makes the structure feel more dramatic than it ever could on land!
There’s no crowds, no waiting—just the breeze, the water, and the adrenaline rush of sightseeing while skimming along the Hudson.
There’s time to slow down and snap wide-angle shots with the skyline in perfect view. The tour also includes photo stops in front of Little Island and nearby landmarks, so you’ll have plenty of chances to capture the moment.
Landmarks You’ll Pass on Your Jet Ski Tour
Sea the City’s route along the Hudson is more than just thrilling—you’ll jet ski past NYC landmarks and take in unforgettable views along the way. During the Little Island jet ski tour, you get to feast your eyes on the following and more:
- Little Island: The highlight of the Hudson River tour! You’ll jet right past its sculptural columns rising from the water, topped with layered gardens and skyline views.
- The High Line: This elevated park runs adjacent to the river, cutting through Manhattan’s west side with greenery, art, and repurposed rail lines.
- Hudson Yards & The Edge: Watch for the sharp lines of The Edge, a glass platform extending from one of the city’s newest towers.
- One World Trade Center: The spire-topped tower dominates the Lower Manhattan skyline, standing as the tallest building in the U.S.
- Statue of Liberty: From the water, you’ll get a distant but striking view of Lady Liberty across New York Harbor.
- Empire State Building: Mid-river, you can spot its classic silhouette rising behind the Midtown skyline.
- Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges: Toward the southern end of the route, both bridges span the East River with views back toward the city.
Why Jet Skiing Past Little Island is a Must-Do
When plans for Little Island were first unveiled, many doubted whether its tulip-shaped columns could even be built. But the design proved not only possible—it became one of the most talked-about architectural feats on the Hudson.
Seeing it from the water reveals just how bold and unexpected the structure really is. Jet skiing gives you an unmatched vantage point of its sculptural base and the surrounding skyline, combining adventure and sightseeing in one high-energy ride.
The Little Island Jet Ski Tour is perfect for thrill-seekers, couples, and content creators who want something dynamic and visually striking. It’s also a great complement to exploring the park on foot—see it up close, then pull back for the full picture.
Who Should Take a Jet Ski in NYC Tour?
Now you’re ready to hop on the water—but is this experience really for you? If you’re looking for more than the usual ferry photo or skyline walk, Sea the City’s NYC jet ski tour delivers something truly unique.
Here’s who it’s great for: tourists who want next-level views of New York from the Hudson, couples planning a fun and romantic date, and families with older teens looking for an activity that’s a little more adventurous.
Photographers and influencers will also find endless content along the route. From sweeping skyline shots to up-close architectural wonders, the visuals are constantly changing and never ordinary. Even locals who think they’ve seen it all will be surprised by the fresh perspective from the water.
And for adventurers who love jet skiing, Sea the City runs a new fleet of Yamaha EX Waverunners—fast, stable, and easy to handle even for first-time riders.
So if you’re ready to ride a jet ski in NYC and want the best view of Little Island…
Book Your NYC Jet Ski Tour with Sea the City Today!
Take a Jet Ski Tour for The Best Views of Little Island
As you can see from this Little Island NYC visitors guide, it’s one of the city’s most inventive and visually striking public spaces. It’s equal parts art, nature, and architecture. But if you really want to take in all its beauty, don’t just walk it.
Ride past it on a true Hudson River adventure.
Sea the City’s jet ski tours give you a front-row seat to this floating marvel—plus unbeatable views of the NYC skyline from the water!
Get your camera ready and your heart racing. Book your tour today.
FAQ Section:
Can you see Little Island from a jet ski tour?
Yes! Sea the City’s tours ride right past Little Island, offering clear views from the water.
Do I need experience to jet ski in NYC?
Not at all—your tour includes full instruction, safety gear, and a guide to lead the way.
Where do Sea the City Jet Ski Tours start?
All tours launch from Jersey City, NJ—easily accessible from Manhattan via PATH or ferry.
Is a jet ski tour safe for beginners?
Absolutely. All tours are beginner-friendly and safety-focused.
Can I take photos of Little Island from the water?
Yes! You’ll have photo stops along the way with clear views of Little Island from the water and more.
Is a jet ski tour safe for beginners?
Definitely. These tours are designed with first-time riders in mind and follow clear safety guidelines to keep everyone comfortable and confident on the water.
Can I take photos of Little Island from the water?
Of course. You’ll have fantastic views of Little Island and other landmarks you’ll want to snap pics of to see and share later.