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
Explore the historic Governors Island National Monument, a tranquil escape with lush landscapes and stunning views of the NYC skyline.
Peter Minuit Plz
1.4 km
Explore the historic Peter Minuit Plaza in Manhattan; a serene escape in the bustling Financial District with stunning harbor views.
East Coast Memorial
1.4 km
Explore the East Coast Memorial in Battery Park, a poignant tribute to WWII heroes with stunning views and serene landscapes, perfect for reflection and remembrance.
A New Land Marker
1.4 km
Explore the historical roots of New York City at New Amsterdam, a landmark rich in culture and colonial history.
James Watson House
1.5 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural beauty of the James Watson House, a treasured landmark in the heart of Manhattan, New York City.
Castle Clinton National Monument
1.6 km
Explore the history of New York at Castle Clinton National Monument, a vital landmark offering stunning views and educational exhibits.
Ny Landmarks Conservancy
1.6 km
Explore New York's architectural heritage at the Ny Landmarks Conservancy, where history meets preservation in the heart of Manhattan.
American Merchant Mariners' Memorial
1.6 km
Explore the American Merchant Mariners' Memorial in Battery Park, a stirring tribute to the heroes of the Merchant Marine during WWII, surrounded by breathtaking views.
Korean War Memorial
1.6 km
Explore the Korean War Memorial in Battery Park, a solemn tribute honoring the bravery of soldiers in the Korean War amidst stunning views of New York Harbor.
Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House
1.6 km
Explore the grandeur of the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, a historic monument that celebrates America's trade legacy and Native American culture in New York City.
22 Battery Pl
1.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of Battery Park, a serene oasis at the southern tip of Manhattan, offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences.
Original Cistern of New Amsterdam Era
1.7 km
Discover the rich history of New York City at the Original Cistern of New Amsterdam Era, a hidden gem that showcases the ingenuity of early settlers.
Portal Down to Old New York
1.7 km
Explore the Portal Down to Old New York, a historical landmark offering a glimpse into the city's rich past and intriguing tales that shaped today's New York.
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
Discover the Remnant of Lovelace Tavern, a historical landmark in Manhattan offering a glimpse into New York's vibrant past and tavern culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Castle Williams
0.4 km
Discover the historic Castle Williams on Governors Island, a remarkable fortress with stunning views and rich military history in New York Harbor.
Raaka Chocolate
1.2 km
Discover the art of chocolate at Raaka Chocolate in Brooklyn, where ethical sourcing meets innovative flavors in a delightful factory experience.
Statue of Liberty Vista Point
1.3 km
Experience the grandeur of the Statue of Liberty from the stunning Vista Point in Battery Park, a scenic gem in New York City.
Attractions4us
1.3 km
Discover the beauty and history of Battery Park, a stunning waterfront oasis in Lower Manhattan, offering views of the Statue of Liberty and rich cultural experiences.
Widow Jane Distillery
1.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of artisanal whiskey at Widow Jane Distillery in Brooklyn's historic Red Hook neighborhood.
SeaGlass Carousel
1.4 km
Discover the magical SeaGlass Carousel in Lower Manhattan, where art meets aquatic wonder in a vibrant, enchanting experience for all ages.
Manhattan Helicopters
1.5 km
Discover New York City like never before with breathtaking helicopter tours over iconic landmarks and stunning skyline views.
The Battery
1.5 km
Discover The Battery, a scenic park in Manhattan offering stunning views, historic attractions, and a peaceful retreat in the heart of New York City.
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
Experience the rich history and delightful cuisine at Fraunces Tavern, an iconic American restaurant and museum in the heart of Manhattan.
National Museum of the American Indian
1.6 km
Explore the rich heritage of Native American cultures at the National Museum of the American Indian, a captivating stop in New York City.
Stone Street Tavern
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Stone Street Tavern, a must-visit spot in historic Manhattan.
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.
