Governors Island is just 800 yards from Lower Manhattan and 400 yards from Brooklyn. Yet, it feels like a world away. This 172-acre island was once a military base in the Revolutionary War and War of 1812. Now, it’s a place for fun and events, with beautiful lawns, art, and paths for biking.
It’s open all year, but some spots like the Winter Village, farm, and Island Oyster restaurant are only here in certain seasons. So, it’s a good idea to check the events page before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Governors Island offers 172 acres of recreational space just minutes from downtown NYC.
- The island features historic military sites, public art installations, and seasonal events and activities.
- Visitors can explore the island by bike, take in panoramic views from The Hills, and enjoy dining and glamping options.
- Educational programs and an urban farm provide learning opportunities for all ages.
- Accessibility and transportation options make Governors Island an easy day trip from Manhattan and Brooklyn.
But what secrets lie within the abandoned buildings and hidden corners of this unique New York City oasis? Discover the must-see sights and top things to do on Governors Island as you uncover its rich history and natural beauty.
An Oasis in New York Harbor
A Brief History of Governors Island
Governors Island has a long history that goes back centuries. Before 1637, the Lenape Native American tribe called the island “Pagganck,” meaning “Nut Island.” This name came from the many chestnut, hickory, and oak trees there. In 1637, Dutch settler Wouter Van Twiller bought the island, but the Dutch government took it back a year later.
The island changed owners many times in the next decade. It ended up under British control. They renamed it “Governor’s Island” and used it during the American Revolution. The Americans tried to defend it with 40 cannons and earthworks, but the British won in August 1776 after the Battle of Brooklyn.
For the 19th and 20th centuries, Governors Island was a key military base. It was crucial in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. It also became a popular spot for fun and events, making it a special place in New York Harbor.
“Governors Island has a rich and storied history, serving as a military base, recreational hub, and oasis in the heart of New York Harbor for centuries.”
Getting to Governors Island
Governors Island is a 172-acre oasis in New York Harbor. It’s easy to get to by ferry from Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn. The ferry leaves daily, all year, from the Battery Maritime Building in Manhattan. It takes less than 10 minutes to get there.
On weekends in spring and summer, you can also take the NYC Ferry from Wall Street at Pier 11. This ferry adds more options for getting to the island.
It’s a good idea to book your ferry tickets before you go. This helps because the ferries can get full. Once you’re on the island, you’ll find 7 miles of roads without cars. These are perfect for biking. There are also many things to see and do.
| Ferry Departure Location | Frequency | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Maritime Building (Manhattan) | Daily, year-round | Less than 10 minutes |
| Atlantic Basin or Pier 6 (Brooklyn) | Spring and summer weekends only | Less than 10 minutes |
| Wall Street at Pier 11 (NYC Ferry) | Spring and summer weekends only | Less than 10 minutes |
Governors Island is a great place to visit, with easy ways to get there and lots to do. Whether you want adventure, culture, or just a break from the city, you’ll find it here.
Exploring the Island by Bike
Governors Island is a car-free oasis, perfect for bike lovers. You can bring your own or rent one on the island. Biking is a great way to see the scenic paths and hidden spots of this urban escape.
Blazing Saddles, the island’s go-to bike rental, has over 1,000 bikes. They offer cruisers, high-performance models, quadracycles, and surreys for up to six people. Rentals start at $20 for 2 hours, and you can rent for a full day for $30. On weekdays (except holidays), get a free 1-hour cruiser bike rental from 9 am to 12 pm.
The island has over 7 miles of car-free roads. You can ride at your own pace without worrying about traffic. Enjoy the views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty as you ride. Make sure to stop and check out the art, urban farm, and other spots along the way.
| Bike Rental Details | Cost |
|---|---|
| 2-hour bike rental | $20 |
| Full-day bike rental | $30 |
| Free 1-hour cruiser bike rental (weekdays, excluding holidays) | $0 |
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just starting out, biking on Governors Island is a great way to enjoy your visit. With lots of bike paths, beautiful views, and things to see, it’s easy to see why biking here is so popular.
Governors Island, New York: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Visiting Governors Island is like stepping into a 172-acre oasis in New York Harbor. It’s full of attractions and activities for everyone. Whether you want to explore history, enjoy the outdoors, or dive into art, there’s something here for you.
Don’t miss the Castle Williams and Fort Jay, both from the early 19th century. They tell the island’s military story. For amazing views, head to Outlook Hill. You’ll see the city skyline and the harbor from there.
For those who love thrills, the 57-foot slide on Slide Hill is a must. It’s the longest slide in New York City. The Yard is another hit with families and kids, offering lots of fun activities.
Biking is a great way to see the island. It has seven miles of roads just for bikes. You can rent bikes for free for an hour on weekdays.
The island’s art scene is vibrant, with over 20 free exhibits and activities in spring, summer, and fall. The urban farm on the south side teaches about sustainability through programs.
Governors Island welcomes visitors all year, with longer hours in the warmer months. It’s perfect for adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery. This place promises an unforgettable visit.
| Top Attractions | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Castle Williams and Fort Jay | Historic 19th-century military fortifications |
| Outlook Hill | Panoramic views of the New York City skyline and harbor |
| Slide Hill | 57-foot slide, the longest in New York City |
| The Yard | 50,000-square-foot adventure playground |
| Biking | Seven miles of paved roads reserved for cyclists, with free bike rentals available |
| Art Exhibits and Activities | Over 20 free exhibits and activities throughout the spring, summer, and autumn seasons |
| Urban Farm | Educational programs showcasing sustainability |
Panoramic Views and The Hills
Governors Island is a peaceful oasis in New York Harbor. It lets visitors escape the city and enjoy amazing landscapes. The island’s hills rise up to 70 feet, offering Governors Island views that are truly stunning.
Outlook Hill and Slide Hill
Outlook Hill is the highlight of the island’s hills. It gives visitors the best view of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. For fun, don’t miss the Slide Hill, with its 57-foot slide, the longest in New York City.
The hills on Governors Island are more than just for views. They offer fun activities too. Grassy Hill is perfect for relaxing, and Discovery Hill is great for easy walks. Whether you want amazing landscapes or an exciting slide, the hills have it all.
“The Hills on Governors Island offer a unique and breathtaking escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The panoramic views from Outlook Hill are simply unparalleled.”
When you visit Governors Island, make sure to check out the hills. They show off the island’s beautiful nature. From the stunning Governors Island views to the fun Slide Hill, this place will leave a lasting impression.
Art and Culture on the Island
Governors Island is a place full of culture, showing off public art and hosting events all year. It has big sculptures and installations that let artists express themselves in a unique way.
The Governors Island Artist Residency Program is a big deal here. It helps new and known artists share their work. In spring, summer, and fall, the program has free art shows and activities in historic spots. This lets visitors dive into the island’s creative vibe.
There are amazing works to see, like Mark Handforth’s Yankee Hanger and Rachel Whiteread’s Cabin on Discovery Hill. Mark Dion’s The Field Station of the Melancholy Marine Biologist is another highlight. These pieces make the island more interesting and start deep conversations about art, nature, and us.
But there’s more than just permanent art. Governors Island has many cultural events and shows all year. The Whitney Biennial, a top art show in the U.S., has shown work by 71 artists here. It’s a showcase of the latest in American art.
If you love art or just want to enjoy the island’s culture, Governors Island has a lot to offer. It’s full of Governors Island art, cultural experiences, installations, and exhibitions that will amaze and inspire you.
Outdoor Adventures and Recreation
Governors Island is a 172-acre car-free oasis in New York Harbor. It offers many outdoor activities and fun things to do. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, climbing, playgrounds, and stunning views.
Kayaking, Climbing, and Playgrounds
In the summer, the Downtown Boathouse runs a FREE kayaking program on Governors Island. This lets visitors paddle on calm waters. The island also has a Community Climbing Boulder on the Western Promenade. It has routes for all skill levels.
The Yard in Nolan Park is a playground just for kids. It’s a place where kids can be creative and build things. Open on weekends until November, it’s a huge 50,000 square feet. It’s perfect for family-friendly fun outdoors.
Governors Island also has car-free roads and pathways for biking, walking, and enjoying the views. You can see the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor. It’s a peaceful place with lots of outdoor adventures for a break from the city.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Kayaking | Free kayaking program operated by the Downtown Boathouse during the summer season |
| Climbing | Community Climbing Boulder on the Western Promenade with routes for all skill levels |
| Playgrounds | The Yard in Nolan Park, a 50,000 sq ft kids-only playground open on weekends |
| Cycling | 6 miles of flat, car-free roads perfect for cycling and exploring the island |
Urban Farm and Educational Programs
Governors Island is in the heart of New York Harbor. It has a vibrant urban farm on its southern side. This place lets visitors learn about sustainable living from May to January.
At the Governors Island urban farm, you can see how composting works at the compost learning center. You can also check out the teaching garden with its many plants and crops. Plus, there’s a bee sanctuary where you can learn about bees and their importance.
There’s also the MicroFactory, a solar-powered place near the lavender field. It shows how sustainable technology can help us. Here, you can learn about the latest in renewable energy and sustainable design.
- Explore the vibrant Governors Island urban farm and learn about sustainable practices
- Discover the captivating compost learning center and witness the art of composting
- Visit the enchanting bee sanctuary and learn about the vital role of pollinators
- Dive into the innovative MicroFactory and explore sustainable technology
Governors Island is a special place for learning and caring for the planet. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with nature and learn about green living. It shows how city life and taking care of the environment can go hand in hand.
Glamping and Luxury Accommodations
If you’re looking for a special experience on Governors Island, New York, try the luxury glamping at Collective Retreats. Stay in a rustic-chic tent or a special shelter with amazing views and top-notch amenities.
At Governors Island, you can choose from the Journey+ Tent, the Summit Tent, or the Outlook Shelter. The Outlook Shelter is a luxury option with a private bathroom and a soaker bathtub.
Collective Retreats offers a private water taxi from Pier 25 in Manhattan. It runs every 30 minutes from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Once you arrive, your tent or shelter will have electricity, air conditioning, and comfy beds with hypoallergenic linens.
Your stay comes with private waterfront decks for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty. The bathrooms have private stalls with hot water and spa-quality products. You’ll also enjoy a free breakfast each morning and dining at Fire & Water restaurant.
There’s more to do than just relax. Enjoy outdoor yoga, meditation, and campfire gatherings for s’mores. You can also take culinary classes for a fee to learn about the island’s food scene.
Looking for a romantic escape or a unique adventure? The Governors Island glamping by Collective Retreats is perfect. Experience the island’s beauty and enjoy the best in luxury camping.
| Accommodation Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Journey+ Tent | Shared private bathroom facilities |
| Summit Tent | Full attached restroom and shower |
| Outlook Shelter | Luxurious shipping container-based shelter with private bathroom and soaker tub |
Dining and Special Events
Governors Island is a place with many dining choices and fun events all year. You can enjoy food from the Island Oyster restaurant or try different foods like pizza, tacos, burgers, and oysters from food trucks at Liggett Terrace on weekends. If you want to cook your own food, there are grilling stations open from May to November.
There’s more than just food on Governors Island. It’s a place for concerts, outdoor movies, and festivals. Events like the Jazz Age Lawn Party in June and August let you see the island’s culture and beautiful views.
- Seasonal Island Oyster restaurant
- Weekend food trucks at Liggett Terrace
- Grilling stations available May to November
- Concerts, outdoor movies, and festivals throughout the year
- Popular Jazz Age Lawn Party in June and August
Looking for a tasty meal or an event you won’t forget? Governors Island has it all. Check out the island’s food scene and dive into the special events that make it a standout spot in New York City.
Guided Tours and Abandoned Buildings
Governors Island is a 172-acre oasis just 800 yards from Manhattan’s tip. It’s a place to explore history and architecture. Join the free one-hour walking tours, offered often during the busy season.
These tours highlight the island’s efforts in preserving history, design, and nature. You’ll learn about the island’s past, including its military forts, Castle Williams and Fort Jay. These forts are open on weekends from May to November.
There’s more to see than just the tours. You can explore abandoned buildings like a historic theater, hospital, and chapel. These places show the island’s past and the work to make it a green space again.
| Guided Tours | Abandoned Buildings |
|---|---|
|
|
Whether you join a guided tour or explore on your own, Governors Island is fascinating. Its abandoned buildings and historic sites offer a unique experience. You’ll leave with a deeper love for this special place.
Conclusion
As you’ve learned, Governors Island in New York Harbor is a hidden gem. It offers a wide range of activities for everyone. From historical sites to art installations, outdoor adventures to luxury camping, there’s something for all.
Looking to bike, hike, or just chill? Governors Island is perfect for anyone visiting New York City. Don’t miss out as it closes on September 27th. Plan your trip now to enjoy this unique urban escape.
As you leave Governors Island, think about all the ways it connects you to nature and culture. With the House Fest coming up in 2024, there’s always something new to discover. This special place in New York Harbor is waiting for you.
