Visitors are welcome to lay a blanket on the grass and picnic on the lawn. Please note, the South Island Park closes at 6pm daily. In 2003, the federal government sold the island to the City of New York for a (rather symbolic) $ 1 to transform it into a recreational area. Perfect for social distancing during pandemic, but I look forward to returning when everything is open. Click here to complete Governors Island's visitor survey. Enjoy the seven miles of car-free paths and amazing 360 -degree views of New York Harbor. The Trust for Governors Island is committed to maintaining an open, transparent and engaging social media presence. Please plan to park in one of the pay lots along South, Broad or Whitehall Streets. The best part is, Islands vendors will be open as well. The walk is long but scenic, and you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the harbor. Just be aware that pedestrian lanes, former residences of the US military, Castle Williams and Fort Jay are bicycle-free zones. Scroll down for schedules and tickets. , right across the street from the Governors Island Ferry Waiting Room.. , right across the street from the Governors Island Ferry Waiting Room. Governors Island is open to the public Sunday-Thursday from 7am-10pm and Friday-Saturday from 7am-11pm. Governors Island | Citi Bike NYC | Citi Bike NYC The Trust for Governors Island offers special waived ferry fares for non-profit community-based organizations, youth camps, and senior centers throughout New York City, subject to availability. Overall, I am so glad I took the time to visit. Reservations must be made 2 weeks or more in advance. There's a nice picnic area with great views of both the Statue of Liberty and the Verrazano Bridge on the southern part of the island. Governors Island (New York City) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Governors Island offers 7 miles of car free biking with incredible views! Composting all organics collected on the Island at Earth Matters. Now you are on northbound South Street and the Governors Island Ferry Terminal is the large green building on your right. There is really so much to do at such a beautiful park. Public art and free exhibitions have always been a vital part of the Trust for Governors Island's vision for the park, with long-term sculptural installations including the likes of Mark Handforth's whimsical oversized Yankee Hanger at Liggett Terrace, Rachel Whiteread's brooding Cabin near Picnic Point, and Shantell Martin's scrawled-upon Church at the base of the Parade Grounds. Cross Court Street and take Joralemon Street for 9 blocks / .5 mile / 10 minutes to the waterfront. But that changed in 2021 and the island is now open all year round - from Sunday to Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from Friday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. How to get there? Governors Island: The Perfect Summer Day Trip - Janessa and Colin And you can walk around the entire island easily, too--almost everything is a short distance from the ferry. Governors Island remains one of the city's greatest escapes and, sitting just 800 yards from the tip of Manhattan, also one of its closest. Its also a good idea to bring snacks or water as there are limited food options on the island. While you can ride in either direction, leaving . Table of Contents TRAVEL GUIDE: A DAY TRIP TO GOVERNORS ISLAND IN NYC The Ferry to Governors Island You cannot drive to Governors Island. Bikes are not allowed inside buildings on the island. The best is the spectacular views of downtown NYC, Statue of Liberty, World Trade Center, the East River, the boats, etc. Click here for NYC Ferry information, ticketing, and schedules. Biking is another fun and affordable way to get to Governors Island. steffen@loving-newyork.com, For any other questions please contact:hello@loving-newyork.com, About us |Imprint & Contact |Privacy Policy |Terms & Conditions |Cancellation Terms. My coffee latte and chocolate snack was very good, but I did not need travel, with my ice skates, family and friends to Governors Island's pathetic winter village. At the end of the survey, you will be given the option to provide your email address to be entered into a drawing for a $50 Amazon gift card. Thats why weve put together this ultimate guide to getting to Governors Island, complete with transportation options, tips, and tricks to make your journey a breeze. Your participation in this survey will help us learn about our visitors and their needs so we can continue to grow Governors Island as an accessible, dynamic public resource for all. Views from the island are great as well but the additional height of the hills makes quite a difference. passenger ferry service from Lower Manhattan from the Governors Island Ferry Waiting Room in the Battery Maritime Building, next door and to the left of the Staten Island Ferry Terminal at, . The bike trail offers stunning views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty. Copyright 2019Blazing Saddles. Trust for Governors Island-operated ferries travel from: Lower Manhattan (daily): The Battery Maritime Building, located at 10 South Street. The best ways to get to Governors Island are the ferry, biking, and walking. Hammock Grove Adventures at Governors Island We suggest purchasing a day pass, as opposed to a single ride, if you're interested in doing some sightseeing as you bike across Governors Island. Smoking of tobacco, e-cigarettes or other products that produce a vapor or smoke, Feeding any animals in the park, including birds or squirrels, Creating any disturbances, nuisances, or unsafe conditions, Trespassing and entering restricted areas, Consuming alcohol outside of designated areas. Liggett Terrace Food Court, King Avenue Food Court a other locations on Governors Island feature a variety of food truck and tent vendors that serve a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages. . Groups visiting Governors Island are encouraged to limit themselves to 40 individuals or fewer. You can now also take the ferry from Red Hooks Atlantic Basin. Service animals are permitted in accordance with New York State Law. We are unable to process refunds for any ticket reservation. Catch-and-release fishing is permitted for visitors over 16. Copyright 2022 Lyft, Inc. All rights reserved. Please plan to park in one of the pay lots along South, Broad or Whitehall Streets. The full schedule of the Governors Island Ferrycan be found here. Getting to Governors Island: Ferry service to Governors Island is offered daily from late May until late September. Bike Tour and Bike Rental on Governors Island NYC. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Have more questions before arriving? We recommend booking Governors Island tours ahead of time to secure your spot. Gitano Island commands 27,000 square feet of high ground located just to the east of the Manhattan ferry slip, and promises to be lush with greenery, atmospheric with the 350 tons of sand that will be shipped in, and hopping with DJs on the decks nightly. There are regular concerts, festivals, and parties with trendy DJs (Avicci, Laidback Luke and the Bingoplayers played here already). Unfortunately, the island became more and more neglected. You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Reduced fares are also available. Both the East River Ferry and free Governors Island ferries accommodate bikes, but you can also rent single and tandem bikes from kiosks on the island, plus they offer free one-hour. Grilling is permitted only in designated areas through the Trusts online reservation system. There is no charge for programs conducted by the National Park Service. You can still rent a bike on Governors Island and explore the area by bike. Don't go on a very hot summer day. Also check out my hotel finder for New York! Tickets for ferries operated by the Trust for Governors Island can be reserved below. How to Spend a Day & What to do on Governors Island This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. First off, no it's not a borough. Stay up to date on events, activities and all things Governors Island by subscribing to our newsletter. During the summer months, Visitor Guides are available at the Soissons Landing Welcome Center in English, Simplified Chinese, and Spanish. Really no food choices except a food truck with burgers and hotdogs. A Guide to Bike Rentals on Governors Island - Luxury Outdoor Hospitality On-street parking is scarce, limited to 1 hour and tickets are costly. Now we bring our bikes with us. Where: TPC Twin Cities in Blaine (Par 71, 7,431 yards). We left our bikes in front of the site and it seemed to be ok. Around Colonens Row you will find the most beautiful houses on the island. We want to hear from you! This method of transportation allowed us to see the whole island at a reasonable pace so wed highly recommend it. The buildings are a little tired and the infrastructure is in need of a little care and attention, however, on a day like we had(bright sunshine and clear blue skies) you could not pick a better place to see all the key views of a New York trip. All tickets are round-trip; you may depart on any ferry you choose. Once you arrive, head to one of the three Citi Bike Stations on the island and use your bike key or pre-purchased ride pass to begin. Subway The subway is an economical way to get to Governors Island but involves a bit of walking. Among the items worth your attention here: Fish and Chips, an intriguing Crawfish BLT, Wellfleets and Navy Points by the half dozen, one of the best lobster rolls in town (get it with a side of their equally great fries), and a dish called Big Pickle which is exactly that, served push-up style in a bag. A Guide to Bike Rentals on Governors Island - Luxury Outdoor Hospitality Featured Offers See Availability Collective Retreats Retreats What to Expect Experiences Culinary Meetings & Events Gallery Collective Journal Instagram Facebook FAQs Development Locations Spread the word The 10 Top Things To Do in the Hill Country of Texas Alternatively, take the free Downtown Connection bus to Battery Maritime Building, from where the ferry departs. Not many people know about this underrated island, so it isnt very crowded, even during busy times of the year like Memorial Day weekend and the Fourth of July weekend. We rented a bicycle driven cart that seated both of us and pedaled around the entire island. Established in 2003. These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. If youre taking the ferry to Governors Island, heres what you need to know: You can purchase ferry tickets online or at the ferry terminal. This must have been a beautiful fort back in the day. You should definitely visit! Governors Island Bike & Surrey Rentals Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals - open daily at 9am From Manhattan, take a 7-minute ferry ride to Governors Island, see ferry schedule at govisland.com . and Picnic Point. Visitors should follow all instructions from ferry staff, security, and emergency personnel while on the ferry, in any ferry waiting area, and while boarding the ferry. Bring you own bike (BYOB): Both the NYC Ferry and the Governors Island ferries allow for bikes, so this is a great option. Go New York Explorer Pass: My Review 2023 | Is It Worth it? If you go today you will see all of the preserved old houses, Fort Jay barracks, various schools, Castle Williams prison, a hospital, a church, and old supermarkets, as well as an old theater. Alternatively, you can take the free Downtown Connection bus to Battery Maritime Building, from where the ferry departs. Just avoid the worst crowds by going to the right or the left on the sand- unless you want to be in the middle of dense crowds. Trust for Governors Island-operated ferries depart from: Mandating that serviceware from all vendors and events on the Island is compostable. The island is busiest on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. There are now Governors Island-operated ferries leaving from three locations: the Battery Maritime Building in Lower Manhattan, which runs every day, year-round; and the seasonal, weekends-only Brooklyn boats, from Pier 6 at Brooklyn Bridge Park, and from Red Hook/Atlantic Basin. The majority of Governors Island is run by New York City's Trust for Governors Island, and the focus of the Trust is to provide recreational and educational activities for visitors.The recreational aspects include green spaces, playgrounds and sports fields, bike rentals, ice skating, picnic areas, glamping, concerts and art exhibitions, water fountains that kids can splash in, and food and . Users are subject to community guidelines. The drinks-and-dinner menu will feature mezcal cocktails and contemporary Mexican fare. 5 reasons why myNY will make creating your itinerary easy! . We recommend that all visitors, including those who are eligible for a free fare, reserve tickets in advance through the ticket reservation system. Log into myNY and start planning your New York trip. You can also get a view of the city along the Promenade. And with our recommendations, youll have a really good time in New York, too, and youll have plenty left for your next visit. We at Citi Bike strive to provide access to our services to all individuals, including through an accessible website. Cycling is a great way to see the island. From Brooklyn: Seasonal ferries operated by the Trust for Governors Island run Saturdays, Sundays, and Holiday Mondays from Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park and Red Hook/Atlantic Basin from May 27-October 29, 2023. This really is very unique that its even worth the visit alone. This year most events on Governors Island are canceled. The Hammock Grove Sheep are back again for another summer of eating away at invasive plant species. We have not gotten to the point of packing a picnic lunch, but there are some good food vendors on the island. Enjoy the seven miles of car-free paths and amazing 360 -degree views of New York Harbor. Dont forget to explore the island and beyond, using various modes of transportation and enjoying all that New York City has to offer. Hours are weather dependent and are subject to change. If you own a private boat, you can dock it at Governors Island for a fee. Pick up a pass through the mobile app and be on a bike within minutes! Governors Island: NYC's Newly-Renovated Urban Playground From the ferry to public transportation to biking, we cover all the options, along with tips and tricks for a smooth journey. The High Line is a public park built on a former railway track and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Visitor Info | Governors Island (en-US) 10004-1921, Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Governors Island is a 172-acre island, a 10-minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn in New, manages 22 acres, containing Fort Jay, Castle Williams, and Dock 102. Have you ever been to Governor's Island? : r/AskNYC - Reddit Visitors are also not permitted to swim in New York Harbor except by permit. In the event of an emergency, visitors must follow all directions from staff, security, and emergency personnel. Visitors may not bring alcohol onto the island but can purchase on-Island and consume it in designated areas. The South Island Park is open until 6pm daily. more, #169 of 1,429 things to do in New York City. We strongly recommend you bring water on your day trip outing. Whether you prefer biking, ferrying, or public transportation, there are plenty of options to suit your needs and budget. NYC Ferry tickets must be purchased in advance of boarding and are $4 each way. On weekdays, the first ferry departs at 10 a.m., and ferries leave about once every 40 minutes until 4:40 p.m. An Oasis in NYC: Your Complete Guide to Governors Island 2022 3. it is about 1.5-2 miles all round the edge so easily walked or cycled with many paths criss crossing through the middle. Plus, you cant beat the view though thats true of anywhere youre standing on the island. See more info here. Finally, for a fun (or romantic) adventure, spend the night glamping on the grounds with Collective Retreats, which offers three different sorts of tents, each with progressively more luxurious features. Fourth of July 2023 Governors Island is open from 7am to 10pm on Tuesday, July 4. Exception: Service animals with a State or New York City recognized service animal license are welcome. Thanks to its strategic position in the middle of New York Harbor, Governors Island . You can still rent a bike on Governors Island and explore the area by bike. 4. Please consult the South Brooklyn route ferry schedule for detailed information. New York, NY Children under 12 ride the ferry for free at all times. Governors Island NYC has routes specially designed for bike riders. Blazing Saddles is just a short walk from both ferry terminals and is the best way to have fun and explore everything the island has to offer. Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC! Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals | Governors Island (en-US) Governors Island Things To Do in 2023 | NYC's Best Day Trip February 3, 2023 New York Located in New York Harbor lays the 172 acre Governors Island. You may leave the Island on any ferry you choose, no reservation required. I would like to see Fort Jay renovated. During last years season ferries would run from Brooklyn Bridge Park. Exceptions Free rides for children under a certain age, IDNYC holders, military personnel, and select days/times for 2 of the ferry routes. The South Island Park is open until 6pm daily. It seems like a scary movie because everything is abandoned, but thats what makes it exciting. Wear a helmet and comfortable clothing. near The Battery. Ferries are available: Manhattan: Battery Maritime Building -10 South Street Brooklyn: Pier 6 - Brooklyn Bridge Park The most sad, pathetic Winter Village, ever. Boat Tour NYC Skyline, Statue of Liberty, Private Yacht Tour, Go City: New York Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 attractions, QC NY Luxury Wellness Spa on Governors Island, Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise, Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Neighborhood Tour - from Manhattan to Brooklyn, Underground Donut Tour - New York's Only Donut Tour, Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island, Private Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour, City Climb: The Ultimate Skyscraping Adventure at Edge, Grand Palisades Fall Foliage Cruise in New York, Official NYC Horse Carriage Rides in Central Park since 1979 , VIP Horse Carriage Ride through Central Park in NYC with Photo Stops. Governors Island National Monument - Yelp The M15 bus runs to South Ferry station, from where you can walk to the ferry terminal. Some nice lunch and drink spots. You can't really compare it to Roosevelt Island because it's not residential. The saddest, most non-existent winter village ever. An ice skating rink about the size of my NYC apartment. Don't miss the views from Outlook Hill (the best!) Governors Island, New York, NY 11231. NY It was considered a top-secret location, so therefore on older maps of New York, the island is not to be found. You are more than welcome to bring your bike to Governors Island. There are many eating establishments in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. You can also rent a bike while on the island: Blazing Saddles offers regular, kids, 2-seat, 4-seat, and 6-seat bikes. The first time we came we envied all those who brought their own bikes. The island is busiest in July and August, coinciding with summer vacation. The biggest opening so far this season is the QC NY Spa, a luxe Italian import that has completely taken over one of those brick buildings between the Manhattan ferry and Castle William on Andes Road. Boarding the ferry can be crowded, particularly during peak hours, so arrive early to secure a spot. Own or manage this property? Ensuring all recycling stations on the Island include a color-coded, clearly labeled compost bin. This will be done through a new ticket reservation system that you can find here. So get ready for food, coffee, ice cream and drinks by our friends from Island Oyster, Taco Vista, Fauzias Heavenly Delights, Kimchi Taco, Makina, Threes Brewing and the Meat Hook, Melt Bakery, Peoples Pops, Perros Y Vainas, Joe Coffee, Three Peaks Lodge, Little Evas, Sea Biscuit, Pizza Yard, Everything About Crepes, Wings Lovers, Terry & Yahi, and Wafels & Dinges. Hotels near USA Beauty School International, Inc. 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Read our. There are some really nice expansive green lawns for picnicking. Governors Island provides unparalleled recreational and educational opportunities right in the middle of New York Harbor. Ferries from Manhattan and Brooklyn provide access to the island. With no cars allowed, biking here is safe and fun for everyone. Whether you want to explore the island, visit the Statue of Liberty, or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge, our guide has got you covered. The entire island is only 2.5 miles in circumference and completely car-free, so ride around the whole thing and explore along the way! On Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day, ferry service is available from Brooklyn Bridge Park's Pier 6. . Located just a short walk from both ferry landings and open every day starting at 9 am, Blazing Saddles is a great way to have fun and explore everything the Island has to offer. Governors Island Directions and Ferry Schedule Read through these FAQs, or check out our Rules and Regulations. The NYC Ferry also has a stop on the island along the South Brooklyn route. All passengers ride free on Saturdays and Sundays before noon. Not only have I visited the city over 20 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. Because even as the non-profit Trust for Governors Island continues to develop the land and repurpose those beautiful old buildings--adding amenities and amusements, art exhibitions and eating options--the 172-acre island still has plenty of room to enjoy some solitude. For more information about Citi Bike pricing and pass options, please head here. Please note, if you travel to the Island on a Trust-operated ferry but want to leave on NYC Ferry, you will need to purchase an NYC Ferry ticket. Required fields are marked *. We finished off with a couple of rum pina colada's and a dish of nachos, which were greatly consumed after a few hours walking around . It was the week leading up to Halloween when we visited. You can pretty much have a picnic with an amazing view. The ferry is the most convenient and affordable way to get to Governors Island. The ferry ride is very short so this is a relatively easy destination if youre already near the terminal. But, it also has a wonderful view of the Statue of Liberty. New York City Passes What is the Best Attraction Pass for You in 2023? Please enter your email address to reset your password. You can also arrive on buses M15, M20, or M55. Getting there is a breeze, too. 1. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. 15 Reasons to Take a Governors Island Day Trip from Manhattan Taxis are a convenient way to get to the ferry terminals, but be aware that they can get stuck in traffic during peak hours. Drones Prohibited Activities Smoking of tobacco, e-cigarettes or other products that produce a vapor or smoke Commercial activity or solicitation Littering Picking flowers or plants Securing items to trees or buildings Feeding any animals in the park, including birds or squirrels Creating any disturbances, nuisances, or unsafe conditions Over in the Urban Farm, a pair of goats help out by eating weeds from the Teaching Garden, and a noisy brood of chickens are vital to the operation at the Compost Learning Center. The sleeper hit on the harbor, though, is Taco Vista, a super chill spot with beer, margaritas, monster burritos, a bunch of different tacos, and boats of simple but satisfying nachos. Top 8 Things to Do on Governors Island - TripSavvy Visitors are welcome to bring their own beverages to the island, with the exception of alcohol. Governors Island will reopen to the public on May 28th, 2016. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Trust for Governors Island-operated ferries travel from: NYC Ferry, the City's public ferry service, also serves Governors Island daily year-round. An 8 minute ferry ride takes you to this island with wide open green spaces and clean air (no cars and no smokers). And ice cream fans rejoice! Visitors are not guaranteed a spot on any ferry that is earlier or later than the departure time listed on their ticket. Portable restrooms are available at Colonels Row. Visitors may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to the Island. The Trust for Governors Island offers waived fares for non-profit community-based organizations, youth camps, and senior centers throughout New York City, subject to availability. The food here is just as fantastic as the cocktails. Very limited air conditioned indoor spots. Bike path around Governors Island that offers stunning views of the New York City skyline, harbor, and most famous landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, two historic 1812 era forts. First time visiting the island.we had a wonderful time.we will definitely be back to enjoy more of the island. Tokyo Drumstick, a new concept from the Kimchi Taco Truck team specializing in Asian fried chicken, joins the island's bustling food court over at Liggett Terrace, which, it must be said, offers one of the most pleasant settings for a picnic in town. Check Things To Do for information about Castle Williams, Fort Jay, and the National Historic Landmark District. Now heading northbound on South Street, the Governors Island Ferry Terminal is the large green building on your right, - Take the West Highway through the Battery Park Underpass. Governors Island National Monument | RECREATION They're open Wednesday-Sunday for visitor maps, Island information, free guided walking tours, Governors Island merch, and more. Please call 212-440-2200 for more information. You can rent a bike, or walk around. Ferries depart daily from Lower Manhattan, and there also is a Southern Brooklyn line running to the island. Pier 17- South Street Seaport. .WHICH CATER FOR MORE THAN TWO TYPES OF TOURISTS. To help you navigate the island, you can bring your own bike over on the ferry for no extra charge, or rent a bike or a charming pedal surrey from Blazing Saddles once you're there. Prohibiting plastic straws, plastic bags, and Styrofoam. Entrance to the QC NY Spa starts at $88 per person for a four-hour visit on weekdays, and run up to $375 on the weekends for an all-day (and night) pass with a 75-minute massage. Governors Island is accessible by ferry every day of the week. Push bikes are free to take on the ferry, and with 7 miles of rideable road, they provide a perfect method of car-free travel. Bicycles are only permitted to be locked at designated bicycle racks and may not be locked to fencing, benches, trees, or any other infrastructure or feature. Additionally, there are three Citi Bike docks on Governors Island, at strategic locations near both ferries and down at Picnic Point. It's nice to wander around and look at all the former mansions and military staff apartments. Theres plenty to see and do on Governors Island, but dont forget to explore beyond the island as well.