Check it out! If you’re driving the FDR on the Lower East Side you will get a peak of a bright and exciting-looking new playground, Pier 42 Upland Park. And while it may not be easy to get here, you may want to check it out.
For big kids there is a tall structure that can be accessed by stairs, a bridge, and various vertical challenges. From high on top of the platform there are great views across, up and down the East River. There is a very tall tube slide and a triple-wide slightly shorter slide to get you back down. There’s a separate medium-height spider web climber and also wall with rock climbing footholds.
A turf hill, swings (two baby swings and one for big kids), and a water play area come next. The water sprays feature sea lions basking in the sun and other metal sea creatures on the rocks.
For little kids there is a smaller play structure to climb over, through, and slide down, plus an igloo-like structure to play inside and a spinning seat.
Pier 42 is a great addition for families who live nearby. It’s not very convenient for visitors, however, because it is somewhat isolated from transportation and other services. It’s’ a 10 min walk from the nearest bus stop, however you can commute to the playground via ferry! (Corlears Hook stop on the East River Ferry). There are bathrooms with changing tables on site.
Snack Time/Coffee Break: There are no shops or cafes close by. And while there are benches, there is no tree cover or shade.
Visibility/Safety: The playground is gated. The play area is long and narrow with multiple levels so it is not possible to keep track of multiple kids in different areas at the same time.
What’s More: What had been an industrial warehouse and parking lot became this playground and multi-use recreation area, built up on a platform over the East River and completed in 2024. There’s a turf soccer field, tennis courts, basketball half courts, and fitness equipment. It’s about a 15 minute walk to another featured playground, Sol Lain Playground.
Gianna Abruzzo is a Brooklyn-born mom who has raised 3 girls on the playgrounds of Lower Manhattan. To celebrate and support parks, she created a collection of embroidered, iron-on patches to wear with pride. Shop here, and follow her on Instagram.
