The bike path is seven miles long and you don't even have to worry about cars! RELATED:10 Must-Visit Underrated NYC Parks. The Governors Island Ferry Terminal is located right next to the South Ferry Terminal, which is home to the Staten Island Ferry. Mayor Adams Announces Return of Summer Season on Governors Island - NYC.gov I have found some buildings closed on weekdays, as of the 2015 season. Photos courtesy of Governors Island unless otherwise noted. Read on for the scoop on the very best things to do on Governors Island with kids, plus important visitor tipssuch as ferry schedules and where to score FREE biking and kayaking. In late fall, stop by to watch the fuzzy wooly bear caterpillars crawling all over the island! The castle was a part of the defense system of the inner harbor and was designed by. There are a variety of excellent food vendors selling a variety of cuisine including tacos, seafood, burgers, Jamaican food, ice cream, and coffee. . Cheers to this fantastic collaboration!". "We are thrilled to be able to open Governors Island for its full, six-month public season again this year, and with more access from Brooklyn than ever before," said Clare Newman, President and CEO of the Trust for Governors Island. If you're very lucky, you might even get a warm souvenir in the form of a freshly laid egg from one of the farm volunteers. Ferries run on weekends from 10:15 to 5:15. I meant un-redeveloped. The 172-acre island has a number of activities to try or is the perfect destination to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful weather this season. Governors Island's newest public installation, The Open Orchard, is a combination of art and environmental preservation. The Childrens Museum of Arts Free Art Island Outpost Program leads art making. Don't be shymake sure you take a whirl with your kids! It demonstrates the power of public-private collaboration and a passion for showcasing exceptional products made in New York. Join or renew your Friends of Governors Island membership today. Most parents retire to a nearby shady slope with chairs to watch from afar. It is a world unto itself, unique and full of promise. The City of New York through the Trust for Governors Island manages the rest of the 150 acres. Access to Governors Island is by ferry only. This is a great place to just unwind and relax under the sun. After a mostly closed season last year, the Yard (aka play:groundNYC) is back and open for business! A 72-acre island in the heart of New York Harbor, Governors Island opened as a military fortress in 1775, and remained a full-service base for the U.S. Army and Coast Guard until 1996. Thanks to the hard work of ESD's Office of Trade and Tourism, this partnership supports local production and will continue to enrich the vibrant, longstanding cultural exchange between New York and Puerto Rico, benefitting both our communities and economy. Most of the historic buildings, massive lawns, play areas, and special attractions on the 172-acre island are within easy walking distance of both ferry slips, but biking downto Picnic Point, say, with its broad Statue of Libertyharbor views, is really fun too. Photo by Julienne Schaer. The freshening breeze seemed to promise a respite from the 24-hour news cycle as we set off for the . It's only 800 yards from Lower Manhattan, and even closer to Brooklyn. JOIN THE CLIMATE SOLUTIONS CHALLENGE Island has implemented protocols based on local, state and federal guidelines. We love them all, along with three play fountains boasting 90 water jets located in the hedge maze, so be sure to pack the bathing suits. Catch up on the most important headlines with a roundup of essential NYC stories, delivered to your inbox daily. The luxury camping experience company has instituted numerous COVID-19 safety protocols, including contactless check-in and check-out. This urban oasis is a hub for public art. The hugely popular Jazz Age Lawn Party returns for its 15th year on June 12th and 13th. RELATED:Gorgeous Glamping Near NYC for Your Next Family Getaway, Governors Island offers acres and acres of beautiful green space to explore and enjoy. NYC Ferry is also offering a shuttle service to Governors Island on weekends every half an hour from 10:04 until 6:34. Parents sign a waiver before kids enter on their own and there are some staff members on hand to make sure everything stays safe. Governors Island is an all-seasons playground now, so don't forget to visit when the flakes fly. (Note that for some, such as art show Harvest Works, you need to make a reservation.). You can read our full write-up here from when The Hills debuted. Plus, you can take home some compost for your plants at home! Best of all, most of these are free! Governors Island | Ferry and Things to Do | Free Tours by Foot The lines tend to get long during peak lunch times and if you're visiting on a weekday, the options on Governors Island are much more limited. The next phase of park, the Hills, opens this summer as well, which makes the Island a must-see destination. A post shared by Governors Island (@governorsisland). Decked out with fountains, sand, and tropical plants. Catherine currently resides in Manhattan. The 172 acre oasis is mere minutes by ferry from Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. Some interesting features, pick up a map from the Information centre near to the Subway. It is a quick 7 minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan. But with COVID cases dropping, vaccinations increasing, and a city ready to explode with the joys of summer, the island getawayis opening right on time this season, and with a full lineup of cultural events, family fun, terrific food, and all the simple pleasures of exploring a still largely-undeveloped space. Theyre perfect for some fun exercise. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Island is open 7am-10pm Sunday-Thursday and 7am-11pm Friday-Saturday (with the South Island Park closing at 6pm daily). Mommy Poppins is a family activity website that helps people find things to do with kids. In addition to just the novelty (and romantic) aspect of a Governors Island sleepover, complete with meals of course, Collective offers guests such "experiences" as mixology lessons, a Shucking and Sabering class, and live music with evening cocktails. Blended into the natural landscape, glimpses of man-made creativity peak through. Governors Island is open to the public year-round, every day from 7am-6pm. Governors Island has reopened for the season, and its going to be a good one! Visiting Governors Island: 20 Secrets for Things To Do and See Marta is a Summer Intern at New York Family. It's a great place to spend an afternoon. Rates start at $250/night. The must-try treats are a Governors Island exclusive, and will be available on weekends only throughout the season. Some tents have shared restrooms, premium tents feature en suite bathrooms, and the newer Outlook Shelters have spa-like bathrooms and private terraces. Do not be alarmed at the length of the line for the ferry when we visited on a Saturday morning, we stood very far back in the line but still managed to get a spot on our scheduled ferry. Good to Know Governors Island has drinks and water for sale, but no water fountains. You can catch the NYC Ferry at Pier 11, Gouverneur Lane at South Street, F.D.R. Gaines art can be seen throughout the park uncovering the roots of a story that built the foundation of present-day American society. Stop by Hammock Grove, where 50 hammocks are calling out to you to take a load off and relax. A post shared by GITANO ISLAND (@gitano.nyc). more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Excellent elements for what we expect to be a long and successful partnership! On weekends there are also two embarkation points in Brooklyn, at Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park, and at the AtlanticBasin in Red Hook. The ferry departed from Battery Park City under a glorious sky on Monday evening. Visiting Governors Island Gala and a Cemetery Drama - The New York Times Once on the Island, you can enjoy art exhibits, festivals, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Just wondering if its worth visiting Governors Island ? Now the people of Puerto Rico will have the opportunity to taste the finest wines from the state of New York, a unique experience!". The Hillsfeature views of the NYC skyline, a permanent installation by British artist Rachel Whiteread, and four 40-foot tall slides for all ages. About the New York State Office of Trade and Tourism in Puerto Rico. You won't go hungry on Governors Island; there are plenty of options for both you and the kids. Visitor Info | Governors Island (en-US) open every day Overview Governors Island is open to the public daily year-round. Both islands provide fabulous views of (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Our first visit to Governors Island- coming from Manhattan; we combined it with play in Battery Park. What used to be a military outpost and command headquarters, Governors Island now offers a whole array of activities and attractions for visitors. There is no surcharge for bicycles at any time. However, if you really want to get your nature fix, GrowNYC operates an urban farm with hands-on programming on weekends. Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park. The island has a few national monuments worth checking out if youre a history buff. Fort Jay and Castle Williams remain closed to the public. From playgrounds, art exhibits, museums, and sports to food trucks and concerts, there's something for everyone to do and see. Governors Island is only open to the public seasonally. The State hopes to expand the selection of wines and wineries participating in this initiative in the future. Dance Your Heart Out at The School at Mark Morris Dance Center. There's nothing to do there really but it is a nice place to relax if you get a nice day on a weekend and there are good views of downtown Manhattan as well as SoL. Check the website for the schedule, as these are subject to change and not all options are available for the public to visit. Governors Island National Monument (U.S. National Park Service) Another great option is to bring your own food and picnic. The Hills is a 10-acre section of the island populated with several peaks of varying heights. Note that no alcohol is allowed, you must buy it on-site but there are plenty of options, from cocktails to beer from Three's Brewing and The Meat Hook. A 172-acre island just a short ferry ride away from Manhattan, this urban wonderland has fun and magic year-round. Visit our two forts, Castle Williams (circular historic fortification) and Fort Jay (star-shaped historic fortification) NPS Photo. The New York State Office of Trade and Tourism, distributor Serralls Imports, and the legendary Steuben County-based Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery are making a selection of wines produced in the Finger Lakes region available in Puerto Rico for local purchase. Current vendors include: Ferry service occurs daily from the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street in Manhattan. Serralls Distillery Inc., is the parent company of Serralls Imports, Puerto Rico's distributor of wine & spirits. It is a great place for families or if you are visiting by yourself. Learning:Explore the historic archives that Governors Island holds. Thanks to the dedicated work of the NYS Office of Trade and Tourism, wine enthusiasts can now enjoy a taste of New York, starting with one of our most historic producers. Things To Do - The forts are open for the season, Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm. Gothamist is a website about New York City news, arts, events and food, brought to you by New York Public Radio. more information on current conditions Governors Island National Monument, New York - Recreation.gov. You can even grill if you want, but you must reserve a grill at least two days in advance. NYWGF's own export program has seen an overwhelmingly positive response to New York wines in many markets throughout the world. If it's not summer without striking up a grill, take note: You can reserve a grill and pack a cooler full of foods to cook alfresco. governors island with kids | NYMetroParents You can also borrow binoculars to explore the island's winged inhabitants on your own. Governors Island Is Open for the Winter. Will New Yorkers Visit? - The What It's Like to Stay at Collective Retreats on Governors Island - Travel Plan Your Visit Governors Island with Manhattan in the center background and Brooklyn on the right Copyrighted by Andrew Moore Governors Island is open to the public Basic Information - For hours & seasons, fees, eating, restrooms, bicycling, pets, and rules. Want to relax and take it easy for a bit? Depends how much time you have. Visitor Map Mapa de Governors Island Events Upcoming public events will be updated here as they are announced. In spring and summer, different flowers bloom, attracting different bugs, bees, and butterflies. The New York State Office of Trade and Tourism and Serralls Imports are committed to expanding the horizons of Puerto Rico's wine industry. Camping is experiencing a resurgence in the era of socially distancing, and yes, you can glamp in style at Collective Retreat's enhanced outpost on Governors Island this summer. Choose from high-quality tents or self-contained luxury trailerscomplete with ACunder the watchful eye of Lady Liberty. Where to hear live music in New York City. 2021 Guide to Visiting Governors Island, NY With Kids - Tinybeans Take time to explore: Even if you go for a specific event or have an itinerary in mind, there are so many wonderful things to do, it's best to have a flexible schedule. A number of installations are permanent, like the afore-mentioned Cabin and Hanger, and new this season is Not for Nutten, a mural from Duke Riley, on view in the historic Battery Maritime Building. Season passes are available for $20. There's even a path you can climb to Governors Island Outlook Hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Manhattan, Jersey City, and the Statue of Liberty. Governors Island is open year-round. Today, a visit to Governors Island is a tranquil trip back in time as you wander through the remaining national landmarked buildings and massive parks that surround them. This collaboration marks the first-ever introduction of New York wines into the growing Puerto Rico wine market and uncorks a new era of wine connoisseurship and cultural exchange. Shes been published many times in the news website, The Pop Topic. Shes currently working with Baltimores upcoming Mortified show, where shell be sharing some of her most embarrassing short stories written in her youth. If you want to catch a phenomenal view of the Statue of Liberty, head over to Hammock Grove. For the first time, you can reserve ferry tickets to the island online as well. Tours and other events will be limited in capacity. Castle Williams, royal as it sounds, actually served as a military prison. the Bee Conservancy, Earth Matter NY, and GrowNYC. Governors Island Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images 10 Reasons To Visit Governors Island - Travel Noire A kid-favorite member of the "hills" family is Slide Hill, where you'll find some seriously super slidesincluding the longest one in NYC. Hours Mondays - Thursdays: 10 am to 6 pm Fridays: May 1 - May 24 10 am - 7 pm May 25 - September 14 10 am - 10 pm * Special "Late-Fridays " September 15 - October 1 10 am - 7 pm Saturday and Sunday: 10 am - 7 pm Holiday Hours: Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day 10 am - 7 pm Hammocks:Relax on one of the Islands iconic red hammocks while gazing at the beautiful city skyline. The NYS Office of Trade and Tourism is also the boots on the ground to the State of New York when natural disasters have stricken Puerto Rico and NYS is always there to help the brother island. For more information: govisland.com RELATED: Get Weekend Activities Sent to Your Inbox Collective Governors Island offers a luxurious glamping retreat on the island's western edge. Governors Island continues to be a seasonal home for innovative public arts programming. June 22, 2011. Public ferry service starts on May 28. Governors Island is a Historic Island in New York Harbor. Governors Island (New York City) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Check the Governors Island website for coronavirus updates and to make sure the program you are looking for is still being offered this summer. The new guide features in depth information to enrich visitor experience on Governors Island, with sections that include popular things to do and free recreation activities along with a detailed map allowing visitors to navigate the Island during their visit. You wont find many of these in the US. Cool off in the sprinklers at Liggett Terrace from 11am-2pm. The slides under construction in The Hills. There are numerous options for food, but it's also a great place to bring your own picnic. This page is available in other languages. Come prepared and enjoy your visit to the city's best urban oasis! Governors Island among being a Jail, POW camp for the civil war is the birthplace of New York. Last year, it took until mid-July for Governors Island to open its gates to ferry-loads of pandemic-rattled folks seeking a big outdoor space on which to run around and play and picnic and bike and relax and snooze. Serralls Distillery are the makers of Don Q Cristal Rum, Don Q Gold, Don Q Reserva 7, Don Q XO and a palette of flavors such as Don Q Limn and Don Q Coco. When not studying, she is running along the Hudson River, reading cookbooks, or plotting her next travel adventure. While there are no cars on Governors Island, there are a ton of cyclists. This article was first published in June 2010 and is updated annually. Picnicking: Visitors are welcome to bring their own food to Governors Island! Catch-and-release fishing is allowed in designated areas along New York Harbor. (Though be aware that there's usually a waiting list.). The Mexican restaurant has amazing decor that teleports guests from NYC to Tulum shores. Boats are available on a first-come, first-serve basis from Pier 101. Since 1865, the Serralls family has consistently produced the finest trums in the world. Donate today, Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations. Catch a round of mini golf at the artist-designed FIGMENT course. Plus, Friends of Governors Island members get great perks like free ferry rides, discounts at favorite Island eateries and activities, invitations to exclusive events and more! Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 7am to 6pm; Friday-Saturday, 7am to 7pm. Ferries to the island run from Manhattan's Maritime Battery Building every day. You can rent by the hour, half-hour or in two-hour stretches, with rates starting as low as $15, or save more by renting for the day. You don't always have to be doing something. NYMetroParents, the parenting division of Schneps Media, publishes eight regional print magazines around the greater New York City metro region, as well as the website nymetroparents.com. Bring your own bike or rent one and enjoy miles of car-free biking. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The NYS Office of Trade and Tourism in Puerto Rico fosters economic growth and promotes cultural exchange by facilitating international trade, tourism, and investment opportunities. Click here for info on obtaining one. Alternatively, you may use, Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan, an IHG Hotel, Road tripping through New York's Hudson Valley. 10004. Subscribe to our newsletters to get stories like this delivered directly to your inbox. "Puerto Rico has shared so much of its culture, vibrancy, and creativity with New York, and our history and future are intrinsically intertwined,"Governor Hochul said. If you don't want to ferry your two-wheeler across the harbor, there are rental places on site, as well as three Citi Bike docks. Today, there are 496 licensed wineries across the State, including 394 farm wineries, making the New York wine industry an important part of the statewide economy and one of its key exports. It is a question whether there are more important things to see in your limited time. Five actual sheep have taken up residence in the idyllic Hammock Grove, "hired" for the summer to gorge themselves on invasive plants like phragmites and mugwort. Inaugural Shipment Includes Wines from World-Renowned Finger Lakes Region, Partnership Represents Special Relationship Between New York and Puerto Rico and Growing Demand for New York State Wines. is an experience you must have. Governors Island National Monument, New York - Recreation.gov, 10 South Street Many buildings house artisans and boutiques, art installations, or other programs. Plus, lots more! The two long anticipated summer movies opened Friday in New York City, and fans were ready. We love their panoramic spa pools and windows overlooking the skyline. Governors Island stock photos are available in a variety of sizes and formats to fit your needs. It reopens for the summer season in June. Interested in bringing your event to Governors Island? Were going to give you a rundown on activities, important information and more! NY She recently completed her English degree at The University of Baltimore, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. Tickets must be purchased online before you arrive at the ferry. The ferry is free before noon on the weekends, and costs $3 roundtrip for "general admission" passengers at all other times. Governors Island National Monument (New York City) - Tripadvisor The tour takes place on the first Saturday of every month and is a joint partnership between. About Serralls Distillery Inc. Serralls Distillery Inc., is the parent company of Serralls Imports, Puerto Rico's distributor of wine & spirits. And sometimes, the farm has some freshly picked vegetables available for purchase. On weekdays the last ferry back departs at 6:15, while on weekends it leaves at 7. It seems like every time you blink, theres something fresh and exciting in New York City. Upcoming events include Japan Performing Arts: Dance Music & Kimono (through May 31), Fruit Tree Care at Open Orchard (June 10), Indie Market FAD (June 19 & 20), music event Porch Stomp (June 24), the popular Jazz Age Lawn Party (June 12 & 13) and the NYC Poetry Festival (July 24 & 25). Indeed, you can cycle Governors Island's entire perimeter. There is no surcharge for bicycles at any time., Purchase tickets and find ferry schedule here. Sorry, the word United in #7 is Apple Auto-correct. All rights reserved. People on bicycles visit Governors Island on July 15, 2020 in New York City. The award-winning park is full of public art and intricate fixtures that are unique to the island. Whether you bring your own bikes or rent on-site from vendor Blazing Saddles, Governors Island is a great place to explore via bicycle. And visiting it is a wonderful way to spend a day outside. These bars are total genius: a base of chewy, cookie-like pastry, a thick slab of one of Malai's signature flavorsRose With Cinnamon Roasted Almonds, Sea Salt Vanilla, Turkish Coffee, Vegan Spiced Peanut Crunch, among othersand a topping of something crisp, like the candied fennel seeds on the Confetti Sweet Milk. There are tours of the historic island given . Some of our favorite, family-friendly, annual festivals include theJazz Age Lawn Party,the New York City Poetry Festival, Porch Stomp, and theCity of Water Day. New York, Discover everything the car-free oasis has to offer, and the best ways to enjoy Governors Island with kids this summer! Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-7pm. Also, I suggest bringing snacks, balls and scooters/bicycles/strollers depending on the age of your . Events and gatherings will be limited and potentially reduced capacity, in accordance with current state and city guidelines. We believe the best memories are created when families do fun things together. The New York State Office of Trade and Tourism, distributor Serralls Imports, and the legendary Steuben County-based Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery are making a selection of wines produced in the Finger Lakes region available in Puerto Rico for local purchase. The following events and attractions are open and available to enjoy. Masks are also required in indoor spaces and any time social distancing isn't possible. Get the latest NYC family fun and news straight to your inbox! Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery Vice President Meaghan Frank said,"We are absolutelythrilled to be the first New York State Winery selling our wines in Puerto Rico. Kayaking is available on Saturdays from mid-June to mid-September, 11 a.m.-4 p.m (last boat goes out 3:30). Events | Governors Island (en-US) Photo by Julienne Schaer, FOLLOW US FOR ACTIVITY PICKS, DEALS, AND GIVEAWAYS. Families can also take a look at The Field Station of The Melancholy Marine Biologist where visitors can confront a future impacted by climate change. ", New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Stemming from a shared vision of New York State Office of Trade and Tourism and Serralls Imports, one of Puerto Rico's largest distributors, the State recognized the immense potential for promoting and celebrating New York wines. From historic photographs to self-guided walking tours, there are so many fun and educational opportunities. There's a seasonal weekend Brooklyn ferry service from Red Hook and Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park that runs late spring through summer. No extra charge for bikes or strollers. This effort helps create a new market for Made in New York businesses to continue an exemplary tradition of cultural and business exchange between the State of New York and la Isla del Encanto. at Liggett Terrace, near Yankee Pier, Slide Hill, and Soissons Landing. The Trust For Governors Island And Bloomberg Philanthropies Launch New How to Spend a Day & What to do on Governors Island Directions: Ferries depart from Battery Maritime Building at 10 South St. in Lower Manhattan every half-hour on weekends, 10am-5:30pm, and every hour on weekdays, 10am-4:15pm. Check out the 15 Best Family-Friendly Hikes on Long Island! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Don't forget to say hi to the goats and chickens! The bike path is seven miles long and you dont even have to worry about cars! The only way to get to Governors Island is by ferry. The Collective Retreats luxury glamping grounds are also re-opening for businessstarting tomorrow, and that business is luxury overnight stays in either the Summit Tents or the tiny house Outlook Shelters near the Great Lawn. . It offers kids the space to experiment with raw materials and foster their creative in new ways. Additionally, the island has installed a number of easily accessible PPE vending machines and hand-washing stations and has increased cleaning procedures and schedules in restrooms, ferries, and in high-traffic areas. This winter, we realized how much fun its sledding hills provide and had a blast exploring the Winter Village for ice skating, hot chocolate, and more wintery-tinged fun. A maximum limit of 35 kids will be enforced, and only kids over 5 years old may enter the yard. Check out The Urban Farm (Saturdays & Sundays, noon 4 pm) where they have chickens, gardens, and a compost center.