I took my first trip to Governors Island this August and haven’t stopped raving about it since. It was a gorgeous, sunny day that ended in me finishing up some summer reading in a hammock while I snacked on a watermelon snow cone. I’ve composed this list because I believe everyone should visit this gorgeous oasis unlike any other part of the city. I guarantee you’ll fall in love with it just as quickly as I did!
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It’s FREE! If you take the ferry before noon, the ferry is free of charge! But even if you decide to sleep in, it’s only $3 for the rest of the day! Plus, ferries back to Manhattan are always free.
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The ferry has beyond incredible view of both the Statue of Liberty and the Lower Manhattan Skyline.
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Speaking of the Statue of Liberty… If you decide to make a side trip to our Lady Liberty, the ferry leaves out of the same port!
4. There’s an adventure for everyone, from zip lining to hiking to mini golfing to biking! Biking is my personal favorite; there’s nothing like feeling the breeze from the Hudson in your hair as you whiz by cruise ships and the Statue of Liberty.
5. For those who prefer to take it slow, there’s a whole hammock park.
6. They have outdoor ice skating -– in the summer!
7. If you decide to extend your trip and want to live like the queen that you are, there’s glamping! This is glamorous camping, complete with air conditioning, luxurious beds, and lighting. Imagine waking up in an air-conditioned tent to a view of Manhattan.
8. History buffs will love the tour of Fort Jay, a fort built to defend New York during the American Revolution.
9. The Snapchats and Instagram pics alone will be worth the trip.
10. Those who prefer art to outdoor adventure will love wandering around and viewing the Governors Island Art Fair, a donation based fair full of work by a variety of artists.
11. Kayaking and play-water fountains will keep you cool during hotter days.
12. “Slide Hill” and “GroundNYC Playground” will allow you to embrace your inner child.
13. If you’re watching your wallet, you can pack a picnic lunch and set up camp on one of the many lawns.
14. If you’re more of an adventurous foodie, food trucks on the island serve everything from crepes, to wings, to oysters at Island Oyster Bar right along the water.
15. With 172 acres to explore, you’ll never be bored!
Are you running for the island yet? The work that the Parks and Historical departments of NYC have done on the island is truly incredible, and we should all support their efforts. Now grab your favorite book and hop on the next ferry!