Bush Terminal Piers Park Brooklyn
A serene waterfront park in Brooklyn offering stunning Manhattan skyline views, iconic swings, and natural wetlands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour & sunset views
Bush Terminal Piers Park Brooklyn
Best Time
Golden hour & sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene waterfront park in Brooklyn offering stunning Manhattan skyline views, iconic swings, and natural wetlands.
"Spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic swings make this a must-visit Brooklyn gem."
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
One entrance is under construction, so it can be tricky to find. Look for signs and be prepared for a slight detour.
🌅 Sunset Swing Strategy
Arrive 15-20 mins before sunset to snag a spot on the viral swings and capture the best light.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Waterfront Swings
Pier 35
Experience breathtaking sunset views of the Manhattan skyline from these famous, oversized swings.
Manhattan Skyline Views
Waterfront Esplanade
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, offering a stunning contrast to the park's natural beauty.
Tidal Pools and Wetlands
Nature Preserve Area
Explore the restored wetlands and tidal pools, offering a glimpse into Brooklyn's wild side and diverse birdlife.
Sports Fields
Soccer and Baseball Fields
Spacious fields perfect for a game of soccer or baseball, set against a backdrop of industrial and natural scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Industrial Past, Natural Present
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
One entrance is under construction, so it can be tricky to find. Look for signs and be prepared for a slight detour.
🌅 Sunset Swing Strategy
Arrive 15-20 mins before sunset to snag a spot on the viral swings and capture the best light.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the piers and natural areas.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The Manhattan skyline views are spectacular, especially during golden hour. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
One entrance is under construction, so it can be tricky to find. Look for signs and be prepared for a slight detour.
🌅 Sunset Swing Strategy
Arrive 15-20 mins before sunset to snag a spot on the viral swings and capture the best light.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the piers and natural areas.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The Manhattan skyline views are spectacular, especially during golden hour. Don't forget your camera!
🌊 Relax by the Water
Sit on the rocks at the water's edge and enjoy the calming sounds of the waves.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bush Terminal Piers Park for its stunning Manhattan skyline views and the unique experience of its iconic waterfront swings. It's lauded as a peaceful natural escape within an industrial zone, offering opportunities for recreation and wildlife observation. Some minor drawbacks include ongoing construction affecting access and distant views of the Statue of Liberty.
"The park offers a far walk into the pier to get closer to Manhattan view as well as Statue of Liberty. It offers soccer fields and baseball fields, hills to climb, nature with a bit of forest feel.
A quiet natural space in the industrial section of Sunset Park, Bush Terminal Piers Park is a lovely waterfront park with spectacular views of the area’s tidal pools and the Bay Ridge Channel. This site, once a port complex, was cleaned up and opened as a public park in 2014.
The park is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Visitors to the park can enter at 43rd Street, and walk along the waterfront esplanade past the tide ponds and restored wetlands. Visitors will find two multi-purpose soccer and baseball fields as well as a nature preserve that allows a fun glimpse into Brooklyn’s wild side."
Buster Got it
"The entrance area is under construction, so many areas/ buildings are closed off. The main road is fairly well maintained.
The pier next to the park is completely broken and there is a bit of trash inside the trees area.
The view to the statue of Liberty is somewhat far, but is clearly visible"
Andrew Lam
"It truly one of the nicest parks in Brooklyn!"
Ismael Aguilar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by public transportation. You can take the subway to nearby stations and then walk or take a bus. Driving is also an option, but parking availability can vary.
Parking information can be inconsistent due to ongoing construction. It's advisable to check local parking apps or consider public transport for a smoother experience.
Yes, biking is a great way to access the park, especially with its waterfront paths. There are often bike racks available.
You can walk along the waterfront esplanade to reach the piers. Some areas might be under construction, so check for signage.
Several subway lines serve the Sunset Park area, offering access to the park. Research the closest station to your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bush Terminal Piers Park is a public park and is free to enter.
The park is typically open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily. Always check for any seasonal or event-related changes.
While the park is primarily for public use, specific areas might be available for private events. Inquire with the NYC Parks Department for details.
Standard park rules apply. Be mindful of designated areas, especially those under construction or marked as nature preserves.
The famous swings are part of the public park and do not require a ticket. They are first-come, first-served.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy stunning skyline views, relax on the iconic swings, explore tidal pools and wetlands, or use the sports fields.
Restroom availability can vary, especially with ongoing construction. It's a good idea to use facilities before arriving if possible.
Absolutely! The waterfront esplanade is perfect for leisurely walks and runs, offering scenic views along the way.
Generally, dogs are allowed in NYC parks on a leash. Always check specific park regulations for any breed or area restrictions.
The restored wetlands attract various bird species, and you might see Canadian geese swimming in the water.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The swings with the Manhattan skyline in the background are a must. Also, capture the tidal pools and the industrial architecture.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for skyline and swing photos.
Drone usage in NYC parks is subject to strict regulations. It's best to check with the NYC Parks Department for current rules and permits.
Yes, the western-facing piers and waterfront areas provide excellent vantage points for capturing stunning sunsets over the water.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline and park views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park is generally safe, keep a close eye on children near the water and piers, especially if any areas are under construction. The iconic swings, though popular, might have age or height restrictions, so check signage. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as amenities can be limited.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Beyond the swings, explore the tidal pools and restored wetlands for unique nature photography. The juxtaposition of industrial structures with natural elements also offers interesting compositions. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive cityscapes and a telephoto lens for capturing details across the water.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers and Peace Seekers
Find a quiet spot along the waterfront, perhaps on the rocks by the water's edge, and simply enjoy the calming sounds of the waves and the expansive views. The nature preserve area offers a peaceful immersion in a more natural setting. It's a perfect place to read, reflect, or simply unwind.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfront and Piers
These piers were once part of a massive industrial port complex, and remnants of that history can still be felt. The transformation into a public park in 2014 has brought a much-needed green space to this industrial section of Sunset Park. The park's design incorporates natural elements like tidal pools and restored wetlands, creating a habitat for local wildlife and offering educational opportunities for visitors interested in urban ecology.
When exploring the piers, be mindful of any posted signs regarding safety and access. The views from the piers are particularly striking during sunrise and sunset, offering photographers and nature enthusiasts a chance to capture the dynamic interplay of light and water.
Nature and Wildlife Encounters
The 'nature preserve' area within the park offers a more rugged, wilder experience, allowing a glimpse into Brooklyn's natural side. This section is ideal for those seeking a quiet escape and an opportunity to observe local flora and fauna. The contrast between the industrial backdrop and the thriving natural environment is one of the park's most compelling features.
While the park is not a dedicated wildlife sanctuary, its ecological restoration efforts have made it a valuable habitat. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find the park a pleasant surprise, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Remember to tread lightly and respect the natural environment during your visit.
The Famous Viral Swings
Many visitors recommend arriving about 15 to 20 minutes before sunset to secure a spot on the swings and experience the breathtaking golden hour light. The experience is often described as magical, with the gentle sway of the swings and the stunning panoramic views creating a memorable moment.
Be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak sunset times and on weekends, as these swings are a major draw. Despite the popularity, the sheer beauty of the location and the unique photo opportunity make the swings a must-visit attraction for many.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit