The Downtown Boathouse at Pier 26 — Attraction in New York

The Downtown Boathouse at Pier 26 is a hidden gem for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers in the heart of the city. Located on the picturesque Hudson River, this boathouse offers a unique and exhilarating experience for both locals and tourists.

The facilities at the Downtown Boathouse are top-notch. The rental equipment, including kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, is well-maintained and readily available. The staff is knowledgeable and provides thorough safety instructions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure on the water. They are also friendly and eager to assist, making the experience even more pleasant.

Pier 26 itself is a beautiful and well-designed space. The boathouse is situated in a prime location, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding skyline. The pier has ample seating areas and picnic spots, perfect for relaxing before or after your water activities. The serene ambiance adds to the overall charm of the place.

What sets the Downtown Boathouse apart is the accessibility and affordability it offers. Unlike many other water sports facilities, they provide free kayaking and paddleboarding sessions to the public. This inclusivity makes it a popular spot for families, friends, and individuals looking to try their hand at these exciting water sports without breaking the bank.

The only minor downside is that during peak times, there may be a wait for equipment, especially on weekends. However, the staff efficiently manages the flow and ensures everyone gets a chance to enjoy their time on the water.

In conclusion, the Downtown Boathouse at Pier 26 is a fantastic destination for water sports enthusiasts. With its excellent facilities, breathtaking views, and affordable offerings, it provides an exceptional experience for individuals of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner looking for an adventure, the Downtown Boathouse is a must-visit spot that promises a memorable time on the...

The free kayaking experience that they offer during summer was so fun! Me and my friends came on a Tuesday, 30 minutes after they opened. It took almost an hour from when we lined up until we started kayaking. However, we didn't feel that the wait was long since the line kept on moving and there are things to do. The first thing would be to sign a waiver. They will also offer a lock and key for a locker so you can put your belongings. There are 2 changing rooms next to the locker. Next, you pick up a paddle and a life jacket. Then you line up to get a kayak. They have plenty of kayak, so the line moved pretty quickly. After they give us quick instruction on how to kayak, we got around 20 minutes to play. You can either do solo or pair up with someone else. The staff, which I believe are volunteers, were helpful and friendly. I had a great experience and would do it again! Just remember to stay within the boundary. No paddling...

While my first paddling trip was in 1973 or '74 on the Little Tennessee River before Tellico Dam was finished, my New York City paddling career started here, in the old, original boathouse building and nub of a pier back in the year 2000. It was the city's first boathouse of its kind, at least in modern times, and was a font of knowledge. By that year there were already many thousands of people a year participating in their free kayaking program. And it was here that I had my first paddle in a kayak and began learning the ways of the river, its physics and folklore, and the history of what was here before. I also got to meet pioneers of NYC kayaking like Ralph Diaz who introduced me to the folding sea kayak (I now own three). These days you are more likely to see me atop an orange paddle board, often with my SUP pup Pepper, but I still remember Pier 26 and the DTBH...