Governors Island

I have found my new favorite place: Governors Island. What is it? I had no idea before 3 weeks ago when a friend mentioned to me that she went with her family. Since Ken has been traveling due to work, I decided to take the kids to Governors Island for Mother’s Day. It was such a huge hit that we went back this weekend.

Governors Island.

Governors Island is a 172-acre island in Upper New York Bay, approximately 800 yards from the southern tip of Manhattan Island and separated from Brooklyn by Buttermilk Channel. You take a ferry from Manhattan (10 South Street, right next to the Staten Island Ferry downtown) or from Brooklyn. The ferry leaves every hour on the hour, starting at 10 am, and the first several trips in the morning are free.

This is 10 South street, downtown Manhattan.

Citibike kiosks outside the terminal

Once you get to the island, it is car-free. A family’s dream come true. There is so much to do, as it was recently renovated. My suggestion is to go early, plan a picnic, bring scooters and bikes, and stay the whole day. It is not a 1-2 hour trip, more like a 4-5 hour one.

Even the 7 minute ferry ride is fun. (I guess we are easy to please, but honestly, great views of the city!)

Me and Toosh….eating Cape Cod Potato Chips and sitting on the boat.

There are the slides, hammocks, ropes, hills, terrain to run on, lots of green grass, incredible Statue of Liberty Island views, breeze, and the sense of relief that you are not in the city.

Resting on a swing. This was from the first time we went without a scooter or a bike. LESSON LEARNED — bring a bike (or rent) or scooter.

Fast curvy slides.

Fun for all ages. The slide park is designed for 5-14 year olds…not necessarily for babies.

Ropes to climb on.

There is also so much history. And also, lots of food trucks. Basically, lots to do, eat, explore, and see. A must do — but hurry, it is only open May 1- October 1. And although I love Governors Island, also don’t tell TOO many people… it can be our little secret.

Food trucks. This part of the island actually reminds me of Europe.

Views.

And get this — bikes are allowed (you can bring your own on the ferry, rent a Citi bike outside the ferry, rent bikes on the island), but now on weekdays, you can borrow a bike for free for an hour between 10am and noon every weekday. Ride like a baller without the cost!

 

Picnic area.

View of the Statue of Liberty.

The Hills.

 

Yesterday we ran into a good friend exploring with her daughter, and a classmate of my son’s! So the word is out — this place is a must see.