My love for Governor’s Island started over 7 years ago and it hasn’t waned. My husband and I visited this 172 acre oasis located in the New York Harbor for the first time as part of a wedding anniversary weekend in the Big Apple. Although we frequently take the train to “the city” for a museum visit, play or just to wander, a two night stay in this vibrant city was our celebratory choice. And this time, we wanted to experience something new. After all, you can live a lifetime in New York and honestly, never see everything. So we researched and…
Governors Island floated to the top of our list.
Just board a ferry at the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street in Manhattan to be transported to a place that makes you feel like you are miles away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. Located only about 800 yards south of Manhattan Island, and separated from Brooklyn to the east and by the 400-yard-wide Buttermilk Channel, you feel like you’re in a totally different place.
But you can look across the harbor and see this! What a skyline!
The beauty of New York City is that there is always something to visit that you haven’t seen before. You can live here all your life and never see everything. The City that Never sleeps is a mix of old and new. That is what makes the Big Apple so amazing and why I’ll never leave!
HISTORY
For most of its history, Governors Island was used as an Army base and eventually a Coast Guard base.
Up until 1996, families of military and Coast Guard members lived on this island. In 2003, the Northern part of the island was land marked by President Bill Clinton. Twenty two acres were designated a National Park.
There is still a “town” on this island, complete with homes, a movie theater, library and school. It almost has a Mayberry feel to it! (Remember, the Andy Griffith show!)
EVENTS & FOOD
Governors Island hosts many events during its open season which typically runs from late May until September. Music events, family events, art events…the list goes on. Just check their website for an up to date schedule.
Interested in a having a picnic? Pack a lunch since food is allowed to be brought on to the island. But no worries if you forget something. Food trucks are now allowed to operate on the island as well.
Before you go, I strongly suggest that you check online for operating hours, ferry service and visitors’ requirements due to the pandemic. https://www.govisland.com/visit-the-island
ART
As you walk around the island, enjoy some amazing artwork. The Trust for Governors Island’s commissioning program supports ever changing public art projects throughout the island.
THE HILLS
In 2016, Governor’s Island opened The Hills . There are four different hills — Grassy Hill, Slide Hill, Discovery Hill and Outlook Hill — each which provides unique features.
he Hills offers lush rolling landscapes, grassy overlooks, exhilarating slides, unforgettable views and a permanent installation by British artist Rachel Whitehead. Watch this video to learn all about it. https://www.govisland.com/the-parkhttps://youtu.be/1rI2UMj_TiE
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