Kayak for One.

Thankfully, the beautiful days of June are still upon us and it's time for another NYC outdoor activity. While the New York Botanical Garden was scenic and relaxing, it's $25 admission charge was a bit steep. How about this time we try an outdoor adventure that's free? Yea, I thought you might enjoy the sound of that.

Hudson River Park along Manhattan's West Side (59th Street to Battery Park) has become the go-to summer hangout for tourists and residents alike. The array of amenities the park offers draw a great mix of people: singles, couples, and families. From bike paths to grassy knolls for sunbathing, the park will definitely keep your feet busy and shoulders tan. But if you're looking for a more rigorous activity, check out my favorite part of the park, the complimentary kayak attraction.

Kayaking, the ultimate "adventure for one", is fun on almost any body of water but, on the Hudson it is truly a can't-miss experience. Hudson River Park offers weekday and weekend kayak service at numerous locations. The free services, offered throughout city-run nonprofits, can be found at Piers 96 & 40. How many people can say they kayaked in New York Harbor? Probably not many. If only they knew how easy (and free!) it is.

After a quick Wikipedia search, I discovered that the page for Hudson River Park briefly mentioned the kayak services offered. The original entry (listed under "Amenities") is below:

The largest sporting complex in Hudson River Park is the Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex, which holds a variety of athletic spaces. Chelsea Piers sports a batting cage, bowling lanes, playing fields, a driving range, an ice skating rink, rock climbing facilities, and gymnastics space, among other exercise and fitness related spaces. Along with these indoor recreational facilities, Chelsea Piers offers boating activities and several restaurants on premises.

In keeping with the maritime heritage of the park, Hudson River Park has opportunities for outrigger canoeing on Pier 66 at West 26th Street, rowing and sailing on Piers 40 and 66, and free kayaking on Piers 96, 66, and 40.

Sure, the page mentions "free kayaking" but, not enough detail is provided for those who may be more interested. I changed the page's entry to read as follows:

In keeping with the maritime heritage of the park, Hudson River Park has opportunities for outrigger canoeing on Pier 66 at West 26th Street, rowing and sailing on Piers 40 and 66, and free kayaking on Piers 96, 66, and 40. 

The free kayaking attraction, run by NYC-based nonprofit organizations and volunteers, allows visitors to ride along the Hudson River while appreciating the view of downtown Manhattan. Open five days a week, including Saturdays and Sunday, free kayaking serves as an affordable activity for tourists and resident New Yorkers alike. After signing a waiver, and choosing a life vest, one can step in a kayak and enjoy a relaxing ride with friends family, or even alone.

Many people, like myself, look to Wikipedia for all sources of knowledge and information. The more detailed a page is, the better it is for the reader. As Wikipedia has shown us, sometimes the best things in life are free, like kayaking on the Hudson! Don't let these summer days pass you by. Get out there and paddle to your next adventure.