Events at Pier 36, New York

About Pier 36

Pier 36 is a massive, multi-purpose event and sports facility on Manhattan’s Lower East Side (299 South Street at Montgomery). Occupying a renovated 70,000 sq. ft. waterfront warehouse (once a city maintenance shed), it seats roughly 5,000 people (pier36nyc.com). The venue is often branded “Basketball City at Pier 36” because it houses seven indoor basketball courts with locker rooms and a sports bar (basketballcity.com). It also includes a VIP mezzanine and a 15,000 sq. ft. outdoor deck with sweeping East River and Manhattan/Brooklyn bridge views (pier36nyc.com). Managed by NYC Economic Development Corp, the site opened in 2012 after a 26-year community campaign to keep it a public amenity (www.thelodownny.com). Now part of the South Street Seaport/Lower East Side entertainment scene, Pier 36 plays host to sports leagues (adult and youth), trade shows, concerts and corporate events. Its industrial character and riverfront deck make it a unique New York venue.

• Type: “State-of-the-art” sports and entertainment center (pier36nyc.com); originally an abandoned pier shed converted for basketball and events (cetraruddy.com) (www.thelodownny.com).
• Capacity & Size: Roughly 5,000-person capacity, about 125,000 sq. ft. total (pier36nyc.com). The basketball portion alone is 70,000 sq. ft. (pier36nyc.com).
• Features: Seven NBA-size hardwood courts, high ceilings, large LED video walls, a sports bar/gastropub, an outdoor riverside deck (with Statue of Liberty and bridge views), and fast multi-gigabit Wi-Fi throughout (pier36nyc.com).
• Ownership & History: Owned by NYC, managed by EDC. Opened 2012 as a community sports center and event space after decades of local effort (www.thelodownny.com). Today it draws ~700,000 visitors a year and hosts about 1,500 corporate and public events annually (pier36nyc.com).

Events and Programming

Pier 36 stages a wide array of events year-round. On the sports side, Basketball City runs adult and youth basketball leagues, clinics and summer camps, and even volleyball leagues (basketballcity.com). Court time is typically used for organized teams rather than pick-up games, and local schools get donated hours. But beyond sports, Pier 36’s large open-floor space can be reconfigured for concerts, festivals, trade shows, expos, industry conferences, fashion shows, and corporate gatherings.

In recent years the venue’s programming has included music festivals and club nights (often electronic, hip-hop, Latin or indie genres). For example, in late 2016 it hosted Pandora’s “Holiday Live” concert featuring Bastille, The 1975 and Bishop Briggs (pier36nyc.com). It has also held big party events like ESPN’s Super Bowl weekend celebration headlined by Robin Thicke and Kendrick Lamar (pier36nyc.com). Recurring summer events have included branded concert series (Heineken Red Star Access) and promotional tours. Weekends often see themed dance or boat-party nights (e.g. reggaeton/cumbia DJ events boarding right at the dock). Expect both daytime expos and nighttime music shows on the calendar.

• Concerts: A mix of national touring acts and local dance/nostalgia DJs. Past headliners include pop/rock names (Bastille, 1975, etc.) and hip-hop/R&B stars (e.g. Kendrick Lamar, Drake via award-show events) (pier36nyc.com) (pier36nyc.com). Electronic/club nights (often 21+) and tribute events also happen regularly.
• Sports & Youth: Basketball City runs corporate and community leagues year-round (basketballcity.com). Youth clinics and summer camps for the neighborhood are common. Community outreach has provided over $3M in local activity support (donated court time and youth scholarships) in recent years (basketballcity.com) (basketballcity.com).
• Expos & Conferences: Many national trade/promotional shows are held at Pier 36. Recent examples include the Hall of Flowers cannabis convention, Revelry cannabis festival, BuildingsNY (construction trade), CREtech (real-estate tech), Indie Beauty Expo (cosmetics/fashion), Lenovo’s tech showcase, and Nike innovation summits. The venue’s flat layout is ideal for exhibition halls and product demos (pier36nyc.com) (pier36nyc.com).
• Cultural & Misc. Events: Other unique events have included fundraising galas, art shows, fantasy football draft parties, boat cruise departures from its dock, and movie/TV shoots (its raw-industrial look is a popular backdrop). Sports award shows (e.g. NBA Awards afterparties) and community basketball tournaments also recur annually.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Pier 36 events are sold through official ticketing platforms or the event organizers (there is no permanent venue box office; most sales are handled online). Major concerts and club nights typically go on sale a few months in advance. Sign up for artist or promoter mailing lists and local event calendars to catch presales and announcements. Popular shows (especially electronic dance or hip-hop acts) can sell out quickly, so consider early purchase.

• Where to Buy: Authorized sellers and official event pages. No specific in-house box office; some events may open a temporary ticket window for door sales.
• Price Range: Varies by event type. Club/party tickets often range $20–$50. Mid-level concerts or expos may run $50–$80; blockbuster shows can exceed $100. Free or community events (youth clinics, street fairs) occur occasionally, but assume concerts/trade shows have fees.
• Booking Tips: For highly anticipated concerts or festivals, expect staggered release (general sale, VIP packages, presales for fan clubs/credit cards). Tickets sometimes sell out, so look for limited releases (e.g. previously cancelled event, special sequences). If a show allows it, door tickets may be available day-of (often at a higher price). Student, military, or early-bird discounts may apply for certain expos.
• Box Office & Will Call: Some events set up on-site will-call the day of. Check event details. Otherwise plan to arrive with digital or print tickets.

Seating and Layout

The interior of Pier 36 is a giant open hall divided into zones. There are no fixed theater seats for concerts – most events use general admission standing on the floor. The basketball courts become floor space; portable staging or risers can be added. For trade shows it may be fully open or lined with exhibitor booths. A VIP mezzanine level wraps around part of the space, which for some events is used for reserved tables and club seating with a bird’s-eye view. Upstairs, the mezzanine is typically elevated seating/standing with bar access. Outdoors, the east-facing deck (15,000 sq. ft.) at water level offers additional standing/spectating space, often used during bike expos or boat-party departures.

• General Admission: Most music concerts and parties are GA on the main floor. Stand near the center for the best sound and sightlines. The floor is flat (courts), so bring a portable light jacket to sit on if you need a break.
• VIP & Seated Areas: For some big events there are cordoned “VIP” sections upstairs or barrier-separated areas on the floor. These typically have table service and fewer people. Seats (folding chairs) may be added if an event explicitly says “reserved seating.”
• Mezzanine Level: The mezzanine overlooks the main floor. A section in the center provides a panoramic view; the sides have a more side-on perspective. For good acoustics and views, a spot above the center of the stage (if you can) is ideal.
• Areas to Avoid: Behind the main technical booth (usually at rear center) may have blocked sightlines. Near big pillars sometimes used for speakers or curtains might partially obstruct light views. If you’re attending a sports event, note some courts have bleachers on one side – those aren’t used for concert seating.
• Acoustics and Sightlines: Sound is generally loud and clear (the venue is designed for sports but the steel roof can echo). Avoid standing too close to the massive support columns. The stage or DJ booth is usually set on one end of the hall; front-center is loudest. Listening quality can also be good from the mezzanine “sound desk” spot up top, which sidesteps crowd density.

Getting There and Parking

Address: 299 South Street, New York, NY 10002 (intersection of Montgomery Street, near FDR Drive). By car, the venue is on the East River waterfront off the FDR highway. If driving north, take FDR to the Montgomery Street exit; if coming south, likewise exit at Montgomery/South. The on-site parking lot (approx 55,000 sq. ft.) is the easiest option during events, though it can fill up (pier36nyc.com). Parking is paid – rates vary (expect on the order of $20–$40 for a full day). Nearby private lots exist (e.g. Seward Park Garage at 240 E. Broadway) and street parking is very limited, so plan extra time. Rideshares and taxis should drop off directly at 299 South St (enter via Montgomery Street).

• Subway & Train: The closest subway station is East Broadway (F train) about 3 blocks north. Also within walking distance are Essex St (J/M/Z trains, ~10 min walk) and Grand St (B/D lines, ~15 min walk). The 6 train ends at Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall (then a ~10 min walk north on Park Row to Montgomery). For PATH commuters, exit at World Trade Center and take a quick cab/bus north along Bowery/Montgomery.
• Bus: M14A-SBS (14th St crosstown to South FDR), M15-SBS or M15 local (1st/2nd Av to Houston/Montgomery), M22 (12th St crosstown via Bowery) all stop within few blocks. The pit stop is southbound on Montgomery or East Broadway. Check MTA maps for the latest routes; Terminal Avenue and Delancey-Essex are key transfer points.
• Ferry: NYC Ferry’s Lower East Side (“Corlears Hook”) route stops at Montgomery Street & Houston, one block north of Pier 36. This is a convenient scenic option from Wall St/Pier 11 or east Midtown ($2.75 fare). Check NYC Ferry schedules for current stop times.
• Walking / Bicycling: Pier 36 is just north of the Brooklyn Bridge off ramps. If coming on foot from the Seaport or Chinatown, walk east along South or Water Street to Montgomery. Bike parking is available near the entrance for cyclists (East River Greenway bike paths run right alongside). Beware leaving bikes overnight; a sturdy lock is recommended.
• Accessibility: The main entrance is street-level on Montgomery. There are reserved handicap parking spots on site by request. The building is wheelchair-accessible (ramps/elevators connect to the mezzanine). Transit-accessible buses (M14A, M22, M15 SBS) stop near the entrance. (Confirm ADA details with event organizers if needed.)

Inside the Venue

Expect a spacious industrial hall environment. There are typically multiple entrances; most events have ticket scanning and security checkpoints (bag checks, metal detectors) at the main doors. Plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime. The large interior is mostly concrete floors and high steel beams – it can feel chilly or echoing, so layer your clothing. Food and Drink: A full-service sports bar/restaurant (often called “The Court”) is on site, offering pub food, beers and cocktails. During events you’ll also find concession stands and sometimes food trucks with quick snacks and drinks. Outside food is generally not allowed; okay items typically include sealed water bottles or small snacks (policies vary by promoter, so check event rules). Bathroom & Services: Restrooms line the perimeter (one near each main entrance and upstairs on the mezzanine). Large events usually have extra temporary restroom trailers set up. A coat check is often available (for a fee) in winter months or formal events. Merchandise & Amenities: Concerts and conferences usually have dedicated merch tables or exhibitor stands. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout (the venue uses a “Multi Gig Aruba” network (pier36nyc.com)), so you can stay connected. Cell reception is typically good (no dead zones reported). No lockers are available, so bags must stay with you or be checked. Plan to keep personal belongings guarded; it’s a busy festive atmosphere when events are underway.

• Entry/ID: If the event is 18+ or 21+, you’ll show valid ID. For 21+ shows, dress may be semi-casual– smart but no special attire is required. For youth sports events, athletic wear and sneakers are common. In general, there is no enforced dress code unless specified by the event (some corporate galas may require business attire, but most nightlife events are casual).
• Security: All guests go through security screening. Metal detectors and wand checks are common for concert nights. Small purses or bags are allowed but subject to inspection; large backpacks, weapons, outside alcohol, and illegal items are prohibited. Professional camera/video equipment usually requires press/media clearance; consumer cameras (no detachable lens) are often allowed (ask at the door).
• Rules & Regulations: Re-entry policies vary by event — some allow leaving and returning with a hand stamp, others do not. Smoking is not permitted inside the venue (use designated outdoor areas if allowed). No open flames or sparklers. Attendees must follow staff instructions; failure to comply can result in ejection. Age restrictions follow city and NYS laws (under-18s must be accompanied at mature-themed events). For sports leagues there may be separate waiver rules.
• Atmosphere: Inside, the vibe depends on the event. Sports leagues weekdays have a casual athletic energy. At concerts or parties the lighting can be very dim/heavy on effects, with loud music. The concrete floor means heels and dress shoes can be slippery – choose practical footwear. If you need cell service, note Wi-Fi is strong; however, crowd noise is loud, so use headphones or texting if calling.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available (search for “Pier 36 Events” network) thanks to its high-speed Aruba system (pier36nyc.com). Charging stations are not provided, so bring a power bank if needed. (Cell signal is generally fine, though in cramped crowds it may slow briefly during peak.)

Nearby Amenities

Dining: The pier is a block from South Street (St. James) and Montgomery–Cherry St. Here you’ll find casual spots like pizza parlors, delis and cafés. For nicer meals, the South Street Seaport (about 5–10 min north) has seafood restaurants (e.g. Delmonico’s Grille, Piriti) and bistros along the river. Chinatown/Lower East Side (west of World Trade Center) is a 10–15 minute walk and offers endless options: noodle shops, dim sum (e.g. Joe’s Shanghai), and trendy gastropubs. Budget-friendly eats like dollar-slice pizza, bagel shops, noodle bars and taquerias are plentiful on nearby Canal and Bowery streets. Many concertgoers grab a quick bite (pretzels, hotdogs, tacos) on South Street before or after shows.

• Bars & Nightlife: There are several bars and lounges within a few blocks. A popular choice is the rooftop bar at The Seaport Hotel (Piscine) with river views, just north. Downstairs near Delancey you’ll find dive bars and speakeasy-style lounges. After-midnight subway service on many lines means late-night rides home are generally available, but check schedules if leaving very late.
• Hotels: Many visitors stay in nearby Lower Manhattan or LES hotels. Options within a mile include the Ludlow Hotel (Lower East Side, ~1.0 mile north (www.concerthotels.com)), Hotel Richland LES (about 0.7 mi west (www.concerthotels.com)), and the Holiday Inn Lower East Side (~0.7 mi, near Delancey). The Club Quarters or Marriott in FiDi (Wall St area) is 1–2 miles away for more convention-style lodging. For ultra-budget, Chinatown has some hostels, and Battery Park City has several business hotels reachable by a short bus ride. Taxi/Uber from downtown hotels usually runs $10–$20 depending on distance and time.
• Transportation Hubs: Pier 36 is very close to the entrance of the FDR Drive (cars & buses), and under 10 min walk from the new East Broadway transit stations. World Trade Center PATH is just south (a short cab/long walk). The ferry landing (Corlears Hook NYC Ferry, 4 min walk) is convenient for a scenic commute.
• Timing Tips: Plan to arrive about 30–60 minutes before an event start. The South Street Seaport area is busy on weekend afternoons, so subways or buses may experience crowding. If dining nearby, make reservations if possible, especially for weekend dinners. After late concerts, select subway lines (F, J/M) run 24 hours (though with less frequency overnight), and MTA-era (main NYC rules still apply) Street/Seaport shuttles may be available.

What Makes This Venue Special

Pier 36’s charm comes from its hybrid nature and historic waterfront setting. Architecturally, it’s a classic New York industrial space – think high exposed steel ceilings, brick-and-glass walls and scoreboard gear. Moving a sports facility right onto the East River esplanade was an inspired reuse: players and fans have fresh air and skyline views rare for NYC courts. The 15,000 sq. ft. water-facing deck (once a fuel tank apron) offers iconic photo spots of Manhattan, the bridges and even the Statue of Liberty at sunset. Few city venues combine indoor athletics, entertainment tech, and true outdoor riverside ambience in one.

Culturally, Pier 36 stands out for bridging communities. It serves as a meeting point between downtown Manhattan’s commerce (corporate events) and the historically working-class Lower East Side. The 2012 opening was celebrated as a victory for local activists and kids after decades of advocacy (www.thelodownny.com). Since then, it has hosted memorable moments: from an army of young basketball hopefuls running drills, to huge expos bringing tens of thousands of people to the LES, to concerts that are carved into venue lore. Artists and attendees often praise its intimate-but-spacious feel – unlike huge stadiums or small clubs, Pier 36 can make 5,000 people feel like one crowd on the hardwood floor.

Finally, the operator’s community focus makes the venue special. Beyond ticketed events, Basketball City regularly donates thousands of court-hours to neighborhood schools and hundreds of sports scholarships (basketballcity.com). This blend of commercial and community use is rare – events at Pier 36 often benefit local charities or employ local youth. All told, Pier 36 is beloved not just for its size, but for its local roots: it’s a neighborhood multiplayer hub that nevertheless hosts citywide spectacles.

Visitor Tips and Information

Pier 36 is generally very accessible but here are some helpful tips:

• Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-friendly. Entrances are ground-level or have ramps. An elevator connects the floor and mezzanine. Accessible restrooms and seating spaces are available – staff can assist on request. If you need special accommodations, contact the event organizer ahead of time. (Wheelchair seating is typically at the front center of the mezzanine. Separate drop-off zones exist for vehicles.)
• What to Bring/Not Bring: Standard concert/sports attire is fine – comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if standing on the cement floor. Small clutch purses and camera phones are okay, but bulky backpacks are not. Earplugs can help for loud concerts. You may bring a sealed water bottle or refillable bottle (vendors often have water stations), but outside alcohol and large bags are prohibited. Check any event-specific rules (for example, conferences may limit liquids and large electronics). Dress in layers: the hall can be chilly before crowds arrive, but hot at peak showtime.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume street parking – it’s nearly impossible. Instead, either use the official lot early or take transit. Beware the FDR; if driving in, follow signs to Montgomery St carefully (don’t swerve on the highway). For sports events, note there’s no general pick-up play; only organized programs run. If attending a 21+ event, always have your ID at hand (they check at entrances). And give yourself plenty of time – after events the exit can bottleneck, and the FDR entrance ramps get busy.
• Age Restrictions and Dress Code: Most concerts or nightlife events are 18+ or 21+ (check the event). Family events or expos rarely have age limits. No strict dress policy exists – come casual. Spaces in the VIP mezzanine or some soirées may have a dressier vibe. If you plan to mingle in these areas, slightly nicer attire is fine (men’s button-down/shoes, women’s smart-casual). But jeans and sneakers are accepted everywhere.
• Photography: Personal photo/video (phone cameras) is usually allowed for non-commercial use at events, but flash photography or bulky tripods may be banned. Always follow on-site guidelines. For special broadcast or press passes, coordinate well in advance with the venue media contacts.
• Rain Policy: Pier 36 events (indoor) continue rain or shine. The outdoor deck is used only for certain events (like boat festivals). If the weather is nasty, the event stays inside; there is no need for rain gear once you’re inside, but bring an umbrella to walk to the venue.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi (SSID often “Pier36Events”) makes it easy to share photos or check emails. Note that streaming or heavy social apps may slow in a large crowd. If you need reliable mobile internet, consider tethering or a data plan – AT&T/Verizon/T-Mobile all have reception in this area.
• Crowd Behavior: Events can draw energetic crowds. If you’re sensitive to noise or crowds, the mezzanine back row or the very edge of the floor is slightly calmer. Security is usually tight, but keep track of your group since the hall is open, and exits can be crowded post-show. Use designated smoking areas outside (if any); smoking inside is illegal.
• Public Transit Fare: If taking the subway or bus, remember standard MetroCard fares apply ($2.90 adult ride as of 2025). NYC Ferry is $2.75 one-way (same as subway). Having a preloaded MetroCard or OMNY contactless card speeds entry. Bike share (Citi Bike stations) is available nearby, though parking a Citi Bike right at the Pier is limited; locking up on Montgomery is possible.
• Language and Customs: Street signage and announcements are in English. The staff and security speak English and Spanish commonly. Tipping bartenders/servers at the sports bar is customary (15–20%). In NYC general: “Stand right, walk left” on escalators, and be polite in line. No ticket/pass needed to stand on the deck to look around when events aren’t happening – it’s public space during off hours.