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Photo: S. Ryan
Photo: Chow Ahmed
Governors Island
★4.7(1,394 reviews)FreePark
🕑 4-6 hours👶 Best for all ages, but especially great for ages 2-12. Toddlers love Slide Hill and the play areas, while older kids enjoy biking the island's perimeter (2.2 miles), exploring the hammock groves, and adventurous play on The Hills. Teens appreciate the food vendors and unique events.🧡 Saved by 44 families
About
Governors Island is a 172-acre car-free oasis just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, offering families an incredible escape with sprawling green spaces, playgrounds, historic forts, and stunning harbor views. Kids can bike along traffic-free paths, explore interactive art installations, climb The Hills for panoramic city views, and enjoy seasonal activities from splash pads to winter ice skating,all without worrying about cars.
Highlights
- ✓Slide Hill - the tallest slide in NYC built into the hillside
- ✓Car-free biking paths perfect for families with young riders
- ✓Hammock Grove with dozens of hammocks overlooking the water
- ✓Historic Fort Jay and Castle Williams to explore
- ✓The Hills - four human-made hills with slides, climbing, and 360-degree views of NYC
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring bikes or rent them on the island,there are no cars, making it perfect for young riders to practice safely
- 2.Pack a picnic to enjoy on Liggett Terrace or the Great Lawn; food options exist but are pricier and limited to seasonal vendors
- 3.Arrive early on summer weekends to avoid ferry lines and grab hammocks in the grove before they're all claimed
- 4.Don't miss The Hills,Slide Hill, Discovery Hill, Grassy Hill, and Outlook Hill offer unique play opportunities and incredible views
- 5.Check the events calendar before visiting; the island hosts family-friendly festivals, outdoor movies, and special programs throughout the season
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall (May-October) on weekday mornings for smallest crowds. The island is only open seasonally, typically May through October, with weekends being busiest. Aim for arrival on the first or second morning ferry to beat the rush and enjoy cooler temperatures.
What to Know
The ferry ride from Manhattan (Battery Maritime Building) or Brooklyn is free and takes about 10 minutes; check the seasonal schedule as the island is typically closed November-April. Food vendors operate seasonally, but bringing your own food is recommended and there are plenty of picnic spots.
Seasonal Notes
Governors Island is typically open late May through October only. Summer features splash pads, outdoor concerts, and food festivals. Some special winter openings occur for ice skating and holiday events,check the official calendar. Peak season is June-August; shoulder seasons (May, September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Nearby Eats
Food options are limited to seasonal vendors on the island (tacos, ice cream, pizza). For a full meal before or after, head to Stone Street Historic District near the Battery Maritime Building ferry terminal, which has numerous family-friendly options like Adrienne's Pizzabar, or grab food in Brooklyn near the Brooklyn ferry terminal at places like Juliana's Pizza in DUMBO.
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