Escape to Governors Island: A Tranquil Oasis in New York Harbor
Discover Governors Island, a serene escape with stunning views, lush parks, and rich history, perfect for a peaceful day trip from New York City.
Governors Island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City, featuring lush parks, historic landmarks, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Ideal for a day trip, visitors can explore its free attractions, enjoy outdoor activities, and savor delicious food from local vendors.
A brief summary to Governors Island
- New York, Manhattan, New York, US
Local tips
- Check the ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary depending on the season.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal on the lawns for a relaxing experience.
- Rent a bike on the island to explore more of its vast trails and hidden spots.
- Visit during the weekend for the best chance to enjoy local food vendors and events.
- Don't forget your camera; the views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty are stunning.
Getting There
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Ferry
To get to Governors Island from Jersey City, head to the Liberty State Park Ferry Terminal. You can take the PATH train from any station in Jersey City to the World Trade Center station. Once you arrive at the World Trade Center, follow the signs to the ferry terminal, which is a short walk away. Take the ferry to Governors Island. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
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Public Transportation
Alternatively, you can take public transportation to reach the Battery Maritime Building in Manhattan where the ferry to Governors Island departs. Start by taking the PATH train from any station in Jersey City to the World Trade Center. From there, transfer to the R or W subway lines at the Cortlandt Street station and travel to the Whitehall Street station. Exit the station and walk to the Battery Maritime Building. Board the ferry to Governors Island from there.
Discover more about Governors Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Governors Island National Monument
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of Governors Island, a historical monument offering lush landscapes, stunning views, and rich cultural experiences in New York City.
Peter Minuit Plz
1.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Peter Minuit Plaza in the heart of Manhattan, a perfect retreat for tourists and locals alike.
East Coast Memorial
1.4 km
Discover the East Coast Memorial in Battery Park, a historical tribute surrounded by scenic views and rich cultural heritage in New York City.
A New Land Marker
1.4 km
Explore the historic charm of New Amsterdam, where New York City's roots and the legacy of early Dutch settlers await your discovery.
James Watson House
1.5 km
Discover the James Watson House, a historical landmark in Manhattan that reveals the rich heritage of New York City through its preserved architecture and engaging tours.
Castle Clinton National Monument
1.6 km
Discover the rich history of Castle Clinton National Monument, a historic fort and museum in the heart of New York City, offering stunning harbor views.
Ny Landmarks Conservancy
1.6 km
Explore the Ny Landmarks Conservancy, a vital hub for preserving New York's architectural heritage and rich history, located in the heart of Manhattan.
American Merchant Mariners' Memorial
1.6 km
Explore the American Merchant Mariners' Memorial in Battery Park, a tribute to the brave souls of the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II.
Korean War Memorial
1.6 km
Explore the Korean War Memorial in Battery Park, a moving tribute to veterans set against the stunning backdrop of New York's harbor.
Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House
1.6 km
Discover the grandeur of the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, a historic landmark blending architecture with rich Indigenous culture in New York City.
22 Battery Pl
1.7 km
Discover the Historic Landmark at Battery Place, a gateway to stunning views and rich maritime history in the heart of New York City.
Original Cistern of New Amsterdam Era
1.7 km
Uncover the fascinating history of New York City at the Original Cistern of New Amsterdam Era, a unique historical landmark in Manhattan.
Portal Down to Old New York
1.7 km
Explore the historical charm of Portal Down to Old New York and immerse yourself in the stories that shaped Manhattan's vibrant history.
Stone St
1.7 km
Discover the historic charm of Stone Street in Manhattan, a vibrant destination for dining, entertainment, and rich cultural experiences in New York City.
Remnant Of Lovelace Tavern, Old Dutch Tavern
1.7 km
Explore the historic Remnant of Lovelace Tavern, a hidden gem in Manhattan that unveils stories of New York's vibrant past and captivating heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Castle Williams
0.4 km
Explore Castle Williams, a historic fortress on Governors Island, where history meets breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and New York Harbor.
Raaka Chocolate
1.2 km
Discover the artistry of unroasted chocolate at Raaka Chocolate in Brooklyn's Red Hook, where taste meets sustainability in every delicious bite.
Statue of Liberty Vista Point
1.3 km
Discover breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty at the scenic Vista Point in Battery Park, a must-visit for every New York City tourist.
Attractions4us
1.3 km
Experience the essence of New York City with Attractions4us, your premier sightseeing tour agency for unforgettable adventures.
Widow Jane Distillery
1.3 km
Experience the craftsmanship of artisanal whiskey at Widow Jane Distillery in Brooklyn, where tradition meets innovation in every sip.
SeaGlass Carousel
1.4 km
Experience the magic of the SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park, a unique amusement ride that brings the underwater world to life in the heart of New York City.
Manhattan Helicopters
1.5 km
Soar high above New York City with Manhattan Helicopters, experiencing breathtaking aerial views of iconic landmarks and the stunning skyline.
The Battery
1.5 km
Discover The Battery, a historic park in Lower Manhattan offering stunning waterfront views, lush greenery, and a rich tapestry of New York City's history.
New York Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza Square
1.6 km
Explore the New York Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza, a serene tribute to valor and sacrifice in the heart of Manhattan, honoring those who served in the Vietnam War.
Fraunces Tavern
1.6 km
Explore the rich history and delicious American and Irish cuisine at Fraunces Tavern, a must-visit in New York City.
National Museum of the American Indian
1.6 km
Explore the vibrant cultures of Native America at the National Museum of the American Indian in New York City, a captivating destination for cultural enthusiasts.
Stone Street Tavern
1.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of history and flavor at Stone Street Tavern, Manhattan's beloved bar and grill with a vibrant atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Route 66 Smokehouse
1.7 km
Experience authentic American barbecue at Route 66 Smokehouse in Manhattan - where flavor meets fun!
Harry's
1.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at Harry's in Manhattan—an iconic restaurant offering exquisite dishes in an elegant setting.
Crown Shy
2.0 km
Discover Crown Shy: A sophisticated blend of American cuisine and cocktail culture in Manhattan's bustling heart.
Manhatta
2.2 km
Experience breathtaking skyline views while savoring exquisite New American cuisine at Manhatta in Manhattan.
Barbalu Brooklyn
2.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Barbalu in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn – where every dish tells a delicious story.
Felice 15 Gold
2.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Felice 15 Gold in Manhattan – where tradition meets modern elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Trinity Place
2.2 km
Discover Trinity Place: A Historic Vault Bar & Grill Offering Lively Atmosphere and Delicious American Cuisine in NYC.
The Tuck Room
2.2 km
Experience contemporary New American dining at The Tuck Room in Manhattan's Fulton Market—where culinary innovation meets warm hospitality.
The River Café
2.4 km
Experience fine dining at The River Café with breathtaking views of Manhattan's skyline and exquisite seasonal cuisine.
Temple Court
2.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at Temple Court in Manhattan - where fine dining meets innovative flavors in an elegant setting.
ONE Dine at One World Observatory
2.6 km
Indulge in fine American cuisine with stunning views at ONE Dine atop One World Observatory in NYC.
Maddy Rose Restaurant at Liberty House
2.9 km
Discover exquisite dining with stunning waterfront views at Maddy Rose Restaurant in Liberty House, Jersey City.
1803 NYC
3.0 km
Discover authentic Creole cuisine at 1803 NYC – where vibrant flavors meet live music in Manhattan's lively atmosphere.
Forgione
3.1 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Forgione in Manhattan—where modern flavors meet classic American traditions.
Buddha-Bar New York - Modern Asian Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience the best of modern Asian fusion cuisine at Buddha-Bar New York - where dining meets vibrant nightlife in Manhattan.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wanderlustre
1.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Wanderlustre, the must-visit gift shop in Brooklyn's Cobble Hill neighborhood.
Brooklyn Women's Exchange Inc
2.0 km
Discover a unique blend of handmade gifts, children's clothing, and local artistry at Brooklyn Women's Exchange in Brooklyn Heights.
Unearth Vintage
2.2 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and antique treasures at Unearth Vintage in Brooklyn, a haven for fashion lovers and collectors.
Brookfield Place
2.6 km
Experience the elegance of Brookfield Place, NYC's premier shopping mall and dining destination with stunning waterfront views and unique stores.
Got You a Gift
2.6 km
Discover unique treasures and local craftsmanship at Got You a Gift in Downtown Brooklyn, your go-to destination for memorable souvenirs.
CityStore
2.9 km
Discover a treasure trove of unique gifts at CityStore, Manhattan's premier destination for NYC-themed souvenirs and local art.
Ting's Gift Shop
3.2 km
Explore Ting's Gift Shop in Manhattan for unique gifts, souvenirs, and a taste of New York's vibrant culture.
Unique Hype Collection
3.4 km
Discover Unique Hype Collection, a vibrant clothing store in NYC's Chinatown, where fashion meets culture in a stylish urban setting.
OM Gift Shop
3.4 km
Explore OM Gift Shop in Park Slope, Brooklyn for unique gifts and metaphysical supplies that inspire and delight every visitor.
Coming Soon
3.5 km
Uncover unique home goods and eclectic decor at Coming Soon in Manhattan, where style meets functionality in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
NY Fashion & Gift
3.6 km
Explore the unique blend of fashion and gifts at NY Fashion & Gift, a must-visit destination in the heart of Manhattan.
Niu Shop
3.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Niu Shop, a hidden gem in Manhattan's vibrant streets.
November 19 Shop
3.6 km
Explore the charm of November 19 Shop in Manhattan, offering unique gifts, vintage clothing, and home goods for every taste.
IF SOHO NEW YORK
3.8 km
Explore high-end fashion at IF SOHO NEW YORK, where luxury meets the vibrant spirit of downtown Manhattan's retail scene.
Classic Coco
3.8 km
Discover unique finds and local craftsmanship at Classic Coco in Jersey City, where shopping meets creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dead Rabbit
1.6 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ireland at The Dead Rabbit, a top-rated Irish pub and cocktail bar in Manhattan with a vibrant atmosphere.
Clover Club
2.1 km
Experience the charm of classic cocktails and delectable dishes at Clover Club, a premier cocktail bar in Brooklyn's Cobble Hill neighborhood.
Barely Disfigured
2.1 km
Discover Barely Disfigured, a unique cocktail bar in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, offering creative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Sunken Harbor Club
2.4 km
Discover the captivating atmosphere and exquisite cocktails of Sunken Harbor Club, a hidden gem in Downtown Brooklyn offering a unique speakeasy experience.
Greene Hook Bar & Kitchen
3.2 km
Discover Greene Hook Bar & Kitchen, a lively Jersey City hotspot blending delicious cuisine and sports in a vibrant atmosphere.
169 Bar
3.5 km
Discover the lively vibe of 169 Bar in Manhattan, where affordable drinks, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
The Golden Cicada
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Golden Cicada in Jersey City, where exquisite drinks and delicious food create unforgettable memories.
Sweet Polly
3.7 km
Discover Sweet Polly, Prospect Heights' cocktail bar, where skilled bartenders craft unforgettable drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Zeppelin Hall Beer Garden
3.8 km
Enjoy craft beers and delicious bites at Zeppelin Hall Beer Garden, a vibrant European-style retreat in Jersey City with stunning waterfront views.
Attaboy
3.9 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting at Attaboy, Manhattan's premier cocktail bar known for its bespoke drinks and intimate ambiance.
Mother's Ruin
4.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Mother's Ruin, a must-visit cocktail bar in the heart of Manhattan, NYC.
Pint
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jersey City at Pint, a welcoming gay bar offering great drinks and lively events in a friendly atmosphere.
Sweet & Vicious
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sweet & Vicious, a lively bar in Manhattan offering creative cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hudson Hall
4.1 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar vibe at Hudson Hall, where gourmet dining meets an extensive beer selection in a lively waterfront setting.
O'Hara's Bar & Grill
4.1 km
Discover O'Hara's Bar & Grill, where delicious grilled dishes meet a vibrant sports bar atmosphere on Jersey City's stunning waterfront.
