Governors Island National Monument - New York

Guillermo R.

A great underrated island to visit. The ferry here is free with a reservation and very worth it. You can see all bridges from here, the city skyline, and the Statue of Liberty. When here walk up the outlook hill place on the northern part of the island to get the best views. You can also rent bikes if you’d like. Castle Williams is also a nice historical castle here. Restrooms available next to the ferry landing area. There are also small gift shops and food areas on the island. A very beautiful place to visit and relax in.

John S.

Nice little ferry ride from downtown Manhattan to this cozy gem of a nook. Great for a little daytime or evening afternoon trip. There's a really great spa on the island as well. Perfect for a date night.

Andy S.

After visiting New York more than 20 times and even spending 7 weeks working there, it took me until August 23 to finally visit Governors Island. It was so easy to do, the tickets are free and you get them online. We turned up in plenty of time for the ferry, which was great as you can stand on top and enjoy the fantastic view.
We went at the weekend so that we could visit the forts, which have very limited opening hours. This was well worth doing. There is a lot of history here. There is also a small gift shop with very helpful staff.
The island itself is lovely. Its worth walking down to outlook hill as the views from the top are amazing. Everything from Statue of Liberty to the Jersey City, Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines. You need about 3 hours if you are doing a quick visit, but could easily spend all day here.
Really glad I finally made it and would definitely recommend a visit.

Edward Y.

Great open space and fabulous views
of Manhattan. The bike rentals are expensive, it is best to rent a bike for all day $36. Citibikes are also available on the island if needed.
There is plenty of food on the island, but it is not cheap for a family of four. I spent a total of $136 dollars.
Also, make sure you get the right boat home. Got on at the Atlantic Ave park. Retuning got on a boat and was dropped off in Red Hook.

Cons of the trip, the signage for the different areas of the island is poor.

Lisa C.

It was a beautiful day and the weather cooperated. My daughter, grandsons and I rented bikes and enjoyed the scenery. We were also able to see my daughters exhibition as part of the Harlem Art Crawl.

pezhman R.

A quick ferry ride from Manhattan transports you to a completely different world, this place is a peaceful island escape filled with history, green spaces, and unbeatable views of the Statue of Liberty. Once a strategic military base, it is now a national monument where visitors can explore historic forts, scenic waterfronts, and open fields perfect for a day of adventure.

Walking around, I was drawn to Fort Jay and Castle Williams, two well-preserved 19th-century military fortifications that once protected New York Harbor. The forts offer guided tours, giving fascinating insights into the island’s military past. Beyond history, the island is a haven for outdoor lovers, with bike rentals, picnic areas, and hammocks under the trees, it’s one of the most relaxing places to spend a warm afternoon.

For the best experience, catch a morning ferry to avoid crowds and bring comfortable shoes for exploring. With its car-free paths, breathtaking skyline views, and rich history, this place is a perfect getaway for anyone looking to escape the city without leaving it.

Bertha L. R.

Governor's Island is a fairly quiet place, clean, large, there is plenty of shade, picnic areas, hammocks, chairs with views to contemplate all the water that surrounds the island, there is a spectacular view of the Statue of Liberty. There are few areas for children to play, but they have fun running and enjoying the countryside. The museum is small but interesting. I liked the place and I recommend going any day, the ferry costs only 5 dollars round trip and there are also sales of snacks and lunches.

Oi K.

Roudtrip for 5$ per person once you arrive at the station or buy in advance.
Picknick area and food trucks.