Ready to swap skyscrapers for a sky view? Then you have to hop on a ferry to Governors Island — an NYC getaway hiding in plain sight. Just eight minutes from Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn, this 172-acre car-free haven is bursting with art, nature, history, and nonstop summer fun.
While Governors Island welcomes visitors every day of the year, the summer season kicks things up a notch. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, the island stays open late, with hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and all the way until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Getting there is part of the fun
Hop on a ferry from Manhattan or Brooklyn, and in fewer than 10 minutes, you’ll leave the city noise behind and arrive on a peaceful, car-free island packed with green spaces, skyline views, and laid-back vibes. Ferries depart daily from the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street in Manhattan. Starting May 24, weekend ferries also run from Brooklyn Bridge Park (Pier 6) and Red Hook.
Weekend ferries before 11:30 a.m. are completely free. Plus, rides are always free for older adults (65+), children 12 and under, NYCHA residents, and IDNYC cardholders.
Not an early riser? No worries. Ferry tickets are still affordable with one-way fares at $4.50. Check the latest schedules and book your tickets online.
What to do on Governors Island
Bikes on Governors Island. Photo source: Shutterstock
Bike the island: Governors Island features seven miles of scenic, car-free biking paths with breathtaking views of New York Harbor. Bring your own bike or rent from Blazing Saddles, located near the ferry landing. They offer a variety of options, including standard bikes, tandems, pedal cars, and surreys that seat two to six riders — perfect for families and groups. Don’t miss their free bike mornings on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., when you can enjoy a complimentary one-hour rental.
Picnic like a pro: Pack your favorite snacks, grab a blanket, and claim a spot under the trees. It’s the perfect place to chill out with amazing views of the city and harbor. Prefer to grill? You can rent one of the on-site BBQs and fire it up. Not in the mood to cook? There are tons of tasty food and drink vendors all around the Island.
Unwind at Hammock Grove: Craving a moment of calm? Drift away in Hammock Grove, where vibrant red hammocks sway gently beneath a canopy of trees, offering a perfect blend of shade and skyline views.
Visit historical forts: Step back in time and experience the history on Governors Island, where you can wander through Fort Jay and Castle Williams, two 200-year-old forts. Fort Jay’s star-shaped design and dramatic dry moat will transport you to the early 1800s, while the towering, circular Castle Williams offers panoramic views and tales of its days as a harbor defense and military prison.
Immerse yourself in outdoor art: Governors Island is like a vast open-air museum, featuring a rotating array of public art installations and cultural exhibitions. Discover unique artistic experiences presented by resident organizations, with new works and events unfolding across the island.
Don’t miss the special events at Governors Island
Beyond the usual fun, the Island comes alive with unforgettable happenings you won’t want to miss. From pop-up festivals to cultural celebrations, there’s always something extraordinary around the corner.
NYC Lavender Festival
- Date: June 7 to 8
- Detail: Celebrate the only lavender field in NYC with tours during Earth Matter NY’s annual NYC Lavender Festival, hands-on workshops, family-friendly fun, and the chance to harvest your own fragrant bouquet in this unique space overlooking Buttermilk Channel.
- Ticket: $15
Jazz Age Lawn Party
Jazz Age Lawn Party. Photo source: Shutterstock
- Date: June 14 to 15; August 9 to 10
- Detail: Travel back to the 1920s at the annual Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governors Island! This fun vintage festival draws thousands each year with live jazz, dancing, and classic lawn games. Enjoy music by Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra, vintage photo booths, old cars, food trucks, sweet treats, and more. Dress in your best flapper dress or bow tie and join the party!
- Ticket: from $10 to $175
FAD Market
- Date: June 21-22; July 19-20; August 16-17
- Detail: FAD Market returns to Governors Island every third weekend from June to August. Set along charming King Ave near Yankee Pier and Liggett Terrace, this open-air market features 40+ rotating local makers, artists, and small businesses. Shop unique jewelry, art, home goods, and more — then grab a bite, sip a cocktail, and play pétanque nearby.
- Free event. No ticket is required.
NYCRUNS Ice Cream Social 10K or 5K
- Date: August 2-3
- Detail: Take in stunning views of Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Harbor with a weekend run on Governors Island! Sign up for the NYCRUNS Manhattan Ice Cream Social 5K or 10K and enjoy a scenic race, ferry rides, a cool tech tee, and post-run treats—including ice cream or ice pops. It’s the sweetest way to spend a summer day!
- Ticket: from $36 to $65
Click here for more upcoming events on Governors Island.
你知道吗？非公民办理驾照时的这个错误可能会导致选民欺诈
Sleeping under the stars
After the last ferry leaves and the island goes quiet, that’s your cue to dive into an unforgettable experience — spending the night right in the heart of it all.
Though no one calls the island home, you can! Collective Retreats offers luxury glamping with upscale tents and private lodges starting at $210 per night.
Whether you’re planning a full-day getaway, a sunset picnic, or an overnight escape, Governors Island is your one-stop destination for summer bliss just minutes from the city.
