Best Things to Do in Staten Island: Ferry Views, Parks & Hidden Gems

Staten Island, often called the forgotten borough of New York City, offers a serene contrast to the bustling streets of Manhattan. Accessible via a free ferry ride that provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the skyline, this lush island is packed with historical sites, beautiful parks, unique museums, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or a peaceful retreat, Staten Island delivers authentic experiences away from tourist crowds.

Arrival by Ferry: Your Gateway to Adventure

The journey to Staten Island begins with the iconic Staten Island Ferry, a free service departing from Lower Manhattan’s Whitehall Terminal. This 25-minute ride circles New York Harbor, offering panoramic vistas of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. It’s not just transportation—it’s a highlight in itself, especially at sunset when the city lights sparkle on the water.

Disembarking at St. George Terminal, visitors find immediate access to shopping, dining, and key sites. The ferry operates 24/7, with frequent departures, making it ideal for spontaneous trips. Pro tip: Sit on the right side outbound for the best Liberty views.

Cultural Havens and Artistic Retreats

Staten Island’s cultural landscape shines brightest at the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, an 83-acre oasis originally built in the 1830s as a retirement home for sailors. Today, it’s a Smithsonian affiliate featuring 23 historic Greek Revival buildings, five botanical gardens, and wetlands. Wander through the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden, one of only two authentic classical Chinese gardens in the U.S., with koi ponds, pavilions, and manicured landscapes inspired by Ming Dynasty designs.

Adjacent attractions include the Staten Island Children’s Museum, with interactive exhibits on science, bugs, and global cultures, perfect for families. The Staten Island Museum delves into local archaeology, art, and natural history. Live performances, art exhibitions, and seasonal events like outdoor concerts add vibrancy year-round. Entry is often included with city passes, enhancing value for explorers.

Maritime Marvels and Lighthouses

History buffs will appreciate the National Lighthouse Museum, located just a short walk from the ferry terminal at Lighthouse Point. Housed in a former U.S. Lighthouse Service depot, it showcases over 150 artifacts including lighthouse lenses, foghorns, and models tracing America’s maritime heritage from the 1800s. Interactive displays and a waterfront promenade highlight the island’s nautical past. Admission is affordable at around $7, making it an accessible gem.

Historical Villages and Fortifications

Step back in time at Historic Richmond Town, a living history museum spanning 100 acres with over 40 restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings. Costumed interpreters demonstrate crafts like blacksmithing and baking, while exhibits cover colonial life, the Revolutionary War, and Staten Island’s role in U.S. history. Special events include holiday markets and ghost tours.

Nearby, Fort Wadsworth stands as one of the oldest military sites in the nation, guarding the Narrows since the Revolutionary War. Free to enter, its batteries, tunnels, and panoramic views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and Brooklyn make it a must for architecture and defense history enthusiasts.

Wildlife Wonders and Family Fun

The Staten Island Zoo is a compact yet diverse 20-acre haven housing over 2,000 animals, from penguins and snakes to a rare white tiger. As the only zoo in New York City, it emphasizes conservation with educational programs and a children’s zoo featuring farm animals. Affordable tickets and daily feedings keep it engaging for all ages.

Memorials, Gardens, and Serene Escapes

Pay respects at the Staten Island September 11th Memorial, a poignant waterfront site honoring local victims with inscribed names, twin reflecting pools, and views of Ground Zero. It’s a place for reflection amid scenic harbor beauty.

For spiritual solace, the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art replicates a Himalayan monastery on a hillside. Its collection of 15th-century statues, thangkas, and ritual objects offers a rare glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism. The terraced gardens and tranquility make it a meditative retreat.

Outdoor Pursuits and Scenic Parks

Staten Island boasts over 12,300 acres of parkland. Clove Lakes Park features serene lakes, walking trails, and picnic areas ideal for nature lovers. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach stretches 2.5 miles along the coast, perfect for biking, fishing, or beachcombing.

Active visitors can hike in Greenbelt Park, a 2,800-acre woodland with 35 miles of trails weaving through forests and streams, or cross the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge on foot or bike for thrilling skyline panoramas.

Shopping and Culinary Delights

Near the ferry, Empire Outlets offers 100+ designer stores, dining, and entertainment in an open-air setting. It’s Staten Island’s premier shopping hub with harbor views.

The island’s food scene blends global flavors: Tibetan momos at the Jacques Marchais tea house, fresh seafood at Pier 76, Italian bakeries in Richmond Town, and ethnic eats reflecting its diverse communities. Don’t miss craft breweries and farm-to-table spots for a local taste.

Practical Planning Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I get to Staten Island?

Take the free Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan. It runs every 30 minutes.

Is Staten Island worth a day trip from NYC?

Absolutely—unique attractions, free entry to many sites, and fewer crowds make it ideal for 1-2 days.

What’s the best time to visit?

Spring-fall for outdoor activities; check event calendars for festivals.

Are there family-friendly spots?

Yes, Staten Island Zoo, Children’s Museum, and beaches cater to kids.

Can I use public transport?

SIRTA buses connect major sites; MTA cards work.