New York's newest attraction has opened and it's a real beauty.
Called Little Island it is as the name suggests a little island - built in the Hudson River on Pier 55, off the west side of Manhattan. It is officially part of Hudson River Park.
The New York Times called it "charming" and I have to agree.
It is a pretty little jewel, emphasis on the little. At 2.4 acres it is roughly the size of half a city block. So of course it was packed.
But you really can't beat the angles and the views. To the north you can see The Empire State Building and Hudson Yards.
To the south - The World Trade Center.
The plantings are stunning. It seems like each planter has a different variety. Just like I would have done it! But I was struck by the thought that it looked very expensive.
In fact, it cost $260 million to build, funded by Barry Diller, who says that he will cover maintenance costs for the next 20 years. After that they're on their own.
I've seen some lovely photos of the island at sunset and am sure that the amphitheater will be a great place for concerts.
But despite the magicians and snacks it isn't really a hang out kind of place. More like a nice place for a one hour stroll if you can handle the stairs. And be sure to bring a camera. ;-)
Here's the article from the Times...
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/20/arts/little-island-barry-diller.html
Cheers!
PJ
(c) 2021 PJ Lehrer
