23 Jun Pier 57’s Discovery Tank at Hudson River Park

Pier 57’s Discovery Tank at Hudson River Park is a vibrant, interactive learning hub perfect for curious kids and families in NYC. Located in the heart of Chelsea at 25 11th Avenue, it’s free and open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

What is the Discovery Tank?

A technology-powered gallery and classroom featuring interactive digital walls, tactile exhibits, and touch tables where children can engage with fascinating elements of the Hudson River ecosystem – from fish and oysters to plankton and river plants.

Designed to ignite wonder, it makes STEM learning hands-on and playful with immersive games that illustrate real-world environmental science.

Year-Round Programs

Guided Gallery hours led by Hudson River Park’s knowledgeable River Project team. These are typically on Wednesdays–Fridays (3–6 p.m.) and Saturdays (11 a.m.–5 p.m.), with occasional extended sessions.

Themes rotate monthly – covering topics like birds, plankton, biodiversity, and more – so every visit reveals new wonders beneath the river’s surface.

Available for field trips too: camps, schools, and after-school groups can book free or low-cost STEM workshops right in the tank.

Why Families Love It

Completely free: Open to the public at no cost – a rare gem in NYC’s attraction landscape.

Always fresh content: With rotating themes and hands-on demos, each visit fuels curiosity and learning.

Perfect all seasons: Indoor and climate-controlled, making it a reliable go-to place year-round.

Highlights You Can’t Miss

Digital underwater gallery: Kids love watching fish, invertebrates, and submerged pilings come to life on giant screens, then touching the installations to reveal facts about oyster toadfish, American eel, and more.

Interactive touch tables: Designed for inquisitive hands, they enable activities like water testing, species ID, and microscopy that make science tangible.

River Project guidance: Friendly staff lead discussions, demonstrate experiments, and answer questions – making each visit engaging and educational.

• Wed–Fri 3–6 p.m., Sat 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (check calendar for changes)
• Cost
• Free for all ages
• No registration needed for drop-in visits.
• Ideal for ages 4 and up, though even toddlers will love the visuals and hands-on elements.
• Nearby amenities include Market 57 for snacks and the scenic rooftop park – great for a post-visit picnic.

The Discovery Tank is where science meets play – children get to touch, explore, and ask questions about their local environment. It’s a fun, educational outing that fosters curiosity, environmental stewardship, and confidence in budding scientists.

If you’re looking for a free, engaging, educational adventure to share with kids, this is a must-visit. Be sure to check Hudson River Park’s calendar online before you go, and start planning your next family STEM adventure!

Location:

Pier 57
25 11th Ave
Manhattan

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