Discover the Serene Beauty of Governors Island
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich history of Governors Island, your perfect escape in New York City with stunning views and endless activities.
Governors Island is a picturesque escape from the bustling streets of New York City, offering stunning views, lush greenery, and a myriad of activities for tourists. Ideal for family outings, picnics, and cultural events, it provides a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
A brief summary to Governors Island
- New York, Manhattan, New York, US
Local tips
- Take the free ferry from Manhattan or Brooklyn for a scenic ride to the island.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the island more efficiently.
- Check the island's event calendar for special activities and exhibitions during your visit.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many green spaces.
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and secure a good spot for your activities.
Getting There
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Subway
From Yonkers, head to the Yonkers Metro-North Train Station located at 5 Main St, Yonkers, NY 10701. Take the Hudson Line train towards Grand Central Terminal. Upon arrival at Grand Central, follow the signs to the 42nd Street subway station and take the 4 or 5 subway line towards Brooklyn. Get off at Bowling Green Station. Once you exit the station, head south on State Street towards Battery Park, where you will find the ferry terminal.
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Bus
From Yonkers, you can take the Bee-Line Bus #1 towards Riverdale. Get off at the Riverdale Avenue and 238th Street stop. Transfer to the Manhattan-bound MTA Bus BxM1, which will take you directly to the Battery Park area. After arriving at Battery Park, walk towards the ferry terminal to catch a ferry to Governors Island.
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Train and Ferry
Start your journey at the Yonkers Metro-North Train Station. Board the Hudson Line train heading to Grand Central Terminal. Once you arrive, walk to the nearby Battery Park, which is about a 15-minute walk from Grand Central. At Battery Park, board the Governors Island ferry, which operates seasonally, and enjoy the views as you approach the island.
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 historical charm and serene beauty of Peter Minuit Plaza, a hidden gem in Manhattan perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.
East Coast Memorial
1.4 km
Explore Battery Park, a historical gem in New York City featuring picturesque views, memorials, and lush green spaces perfect for relaxation and reflection.
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
Discover the historical significance of the James Watson House, a captivating landmark in Manhattan that highlights New York's rich architectural heritage.
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 poignant American Merchant Mariners' Memorial in Battery Park, a tribute to the brave sailors of WWII amidst stunning views and lush greenery.
Korean War Memorial
1.6 km
Discover the Korean War Memorial in Battery Park, a poignant tribute to bravery amidst stunning views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty.
Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House
1.6 km
Discover the grandeur of the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, a historic architectural gem in New York City that houses the National Museum of the American Indian.
22 Battery Pl
1.7 km
Explore Battery Park: A historic oasis in Manhattan with stunning views, lush landscapes, and iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty.
Original Cistern of New Amsterdam Era
1.7 km
Explore the Original Cistern of New Amsterdam Era, a historical landmark revealing the early water supply system of New York City.
Portal Down to Old New York
1.7 km
Discover the rich history of New York City at the Portal Down to Old New York, a fascinating landmark that unveils the stories of the past.
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 historic Remnant of Lovelace Tavern, a captivating landmark in Manhattan that echoes the vibrant stories of New York's past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Castle Williams
0.4 km
Discover the rich military history and stunning views at Castle Williams on Governors Island, a must-see historical landmark in New York City.
Raaka Chocolate
1.2 km
Explore the world of chocolate at Raaka Chocolate in Brooklyn, where artisanal craftsmanship meets sustainable sourcing for a delicious 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
Explore New York City from the sky with breathtaking helicopter tours that showcase iconic landmarks and stunning vistas, making unforgettable memories.
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 historic bar and restaurant in the heart of 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.