A few days ago, Josh and I finally had time to go and explore a bit more of New York City. I had the idea to check out Governors Island — and honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I kept seeing it from the shore and was curious.

If you’re looking for an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline without having to squeeze into the Staten Island ferry, I can highly recommend visiting Governors Island instead. The views are breathtaking, and you’re almost as close to the Statue of Liberty as you would be on the ferry! It’s the perfect half-day escape from the bustle of the city. Reserve an afternoon of your trip to explore the island. (More NYC travel tips here!)

How to get there:

A ferry leaves from Manhattan at the Battery Maritime Building (very south of the island) every 30 minutes. In summer, there are also occasional ferries from Brooklyn. The NYC Ferry also goes to Governors Island year-round, but the fastest option is the Manhattan ferry. Check the schedule online before you go to save time.

Admiral's House on Governors Island — Admiral’s House

Costs:

Ferry ride
Adults: $5
Children under 12, adults over 65, and IDNYC card holders are free

Island
Visiting the island is free.

What to do:

Statue of Liberty from Governors Island — View from Outlook Hill

Walk & Enjoy the Views
Josh and I spent the afternoon wandering the island. While there are plenty of historic houses, most are empty. We walked an entire loop, soaking in panoramic views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Long Island City, New Jersey, and the Statue of Liberty.

Recommended Walks:

Wander through the small lavender fields on the east side of the island.
Check out the Admiral’s House, a charming old building (northeast side).
Climb up Outlook Hill for sweeping views of the entire harbor (west side) — definitely worth it!

Bike rides
There are Citi Bikes available to rent, or you can bring your own bike on the ferry for free. Cycling is a fantastic way to see the whole island without rushing.

Eat
There are plenty of seasonal outdoor food vendors, offering everything from Mexican and Italian to seafood. Bring an appetite — the smells alone will draw you in.

Glamping
Camping in NYC?! I know — not what you’d expect — but the site looked amazing! We spent some time near the glampsite, and it felt like a little luxury retreat. They’re open from May to October (sometimes November). If you want a truly unique overnight experience, this is it. Check out their website for more.

NYC Harbor from Governors Island — New Jersey and Manhattan

Explore Governors Island: Stunning NYC Views & Hidden Gems