Governors Island, New York City

Interesting and worth the trip over. We went towards the end of December, so it was cold and windy, so be prepared for that if you go in Winter. It was still a nice escape from Manhattan. The buildings were cool to look at and the views were great. There was an art exhibit that had already closed for the season, but it would've been cool to see. There was also a holiday setup with a small ice rink (be good for small kids) and a handful of food trucks, but since we went during the week and early in the day, it wasn't open. We still enjoyed walking and looking around. There were so few people at the time we went that it felt like we had the whole island to ourselves. It's an easy and cheap ferry ride over from Manhattan. Probably would be good to research what's going on on the island before going so you know what activities to expect, especially if you have kids that might not appreciate the historical aspect. Otherwise, I'd say just be ready to walk and prepare for whatever the weather is (hot or cold). There's not really anywhere to go inside, except for a restroom and if there's anything going on at the exhibit location. For reference, the picture with the closer view of the Statue of Liberty is zoomed in pretty far, but you still get a great view of the statue from the south end of the island. This is a good alternative for seeing the Statue of Liberty if you don't want to take the other tours or go to the pedestal. $4 ferry trip from lower Manhattan and some walking will get you this view.

First time here, but definately it's worth coming back and exploring this interesting island a bit more. A quiet and peaceful place to be. It has beautiful views (NJ, Statue of Liberty, Downtown Manhattan). Well preserved buildings, paths and structures. A little bit plain, w/o activities during a winter season, but depends what are you looking for. One of those places where you are able to connect with a nature. City bikes available, public restrooms as well. Wending machines only, no stores or caffeterias. There is a picnic area, useful during spring/summer season I would say. NYC Ferry runs every hour ($2.75 per diem, $3.75 if you carry your bicycle). The whole island you can walk around in around half an hour. A perfect place if you want to escape from urban environment!

love coming here. It's a total escape from the hustle and bustle if NYC within NYC. Go on aweekday and avoid the crowds. Plenty of picnic spots and you can even rent grills to BBQ. The veering views of NYC are amazing..head to outlook hill and get one of the best views of the Manhattan skyline. There is a lot of history on this island and worth a stroll. Check for events throughout the year . You can bike..bring your own or rent. You can rent bike carts,wherewl the whole family can rise There are food carts on weekends. There's a spa now and soon Gitano the lounge is opening. Walking through the old barracks makes you feel the sense of history that was present here.

Governors Island is just off the southern tip of Manhattan and is accessible by ferry from next to the Whitehall Terminal. It's certainly worth the $2.75 ticket. We went on a weekday morning/afternoon in Nov and it was super quiet. Rented a surrey for free using our New York Pass, which I'd certainly recommend. There's a hammock grove at the top of the island, which I imagine would be perfect in the summer. Saw a sports field too. The highlight for me was the view over to Manhattan, Brooklyn and NJ, especially from the outlook hill. So many open green spaces that are beautifully maintained. Toilets are available on the island too.

A nice Island with an interesting history. I really like the hammock Grove. The island has a play area, splash pad, a dog park, a picnic area, plenty of benches, but very few garbage cans