Fun Things to Do in Staten Island | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Staten Island Travel Guide
Quick overview of Staten Island with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Staten Island Travel Videos
- Plan Staten Island Trip
- Things To Do In Staten Island
- Tours And Activities In Staten Island
- Best Time To Visit Staten Island
- Flight Calendar For Staten Island
- Best Areas To Stay In Staten Island
- Hotels Map Of Staten Island
- Transportation To Staten Island
- Nearby Destinantion From Staten Island
Welcome to Staten Island, a hidden gem in the United States! Located in the southernmost part of New York City, Staten Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance. As the least populated borough, it provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, while still offering a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From the iconic Staten Island Ferry, which offers breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, to the serene Staten Island Greenbelt, a vast network of parks and trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this borough has something for everyone. Additionally, Staten Island is home to the renowned Staten Island Zoo, the historic Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, and the delightful neighborhoods of St. George and Richmond Town, each with their own distinct character and charm. So, whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Staten Island is the perfect destination to explore and discover.
Staten Island Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Staten Island videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Staten Island in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
Plan Staten Island Trip
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Things To Do In Staten Island
Staten Island offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main things to do on the island is to visit the Staten Island Ferry. This iconic attraction provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The ferry ride itself is free, making it a popular choice for both tourists and locals.
Another highlight of Staten Island is the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. This historic site features beautiful gardens, art galleries, and museums. Visitors can explore the lush gardens, admire the artwork, and learn about the island's cultural heritage.
For nature enthusiasts, Greenbelt Park is a must-visit destination. This expansive park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.
If you're interested in history, the Conference House is worth a visit. This historic house played a significant role in American history as it was the site of a peace conference during the Revolutionary War. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its historical significance.
For those looking for family-friendly activities, the Staten Island Zoo is a great choice. This charming zoo is home to a variety of animals, including red pandas, zebras, and penguins. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Lastly, shopping and dining options are plentiful on Staten Island. The Staten Island Mall offers a wide range of retail stores and restaurants. Additionally, the St. George neighborhood is known for its vibrant restaurant scene, offering a diverse selection of cuisines.
In summary, Staten Island offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From taking a ferry ride to admiring gardens and exploring parks, there is something for everyone on this diverse island.
Tours And Activities In Staten Island
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Best Time To Visit Staten Island
The best time to visit Staten Island is during the spring and fall seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the island's outdoor attractions. Additionally, crowds are generally smaller compared to the summer months, allowing visitors to enjoy popular sites such as the Staten Island Ferry and the Staten Island Museum without long waits or large crowds. However, it is important to note that Staten Island experiences harsh winters, with cold temperatures and snowfall, so it is best to avoid visiting during this time if you are not a fan of winter activities.
Flight Calendar For Staten Island
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Staten Island.
Best Areas To Stay In Staten Island
Staten Island offers a variety of great areas for accommodation. Here are a few notable ones:
1. St. George: Located on the northeastern tip of Staten Island, St. George is a vibrant neighborhood known for its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. It is home to the St. George Theatre, a historic venue that hosts various performances and events. St. George also offers convenient access to the Staten Island Ferry, making it an ideal choice for those who commute to Manhattan.
2. Tottenville: Situated on the southernmost point of Staten Island, Tottenville is a charming waterfront community. It boasts a peaceful atmosphere and is known for its historic homes and quaint streets. Tottenville also offers access to Conference House Park, a beautiful waterfront park that provides recreational activities and scenic views.
3. Grymes Hill: Grymes Hill is a picturesque neighborhood located on the eastern side of Staten Island. It is characterized by its rolling hills and lush greenery, providing a tranquil setting for residents. Grymes Hill is home to the Wagner College campus, which adds a youthful and vibrant energy to the area. The neighborhood also offers easy access to the Staten Island Expressway, making it convenient for commuters.
4. Great Kills: Great Kills is a family-friendly neighborhood situated on the southeastern shore of Staten Island. It is known for its excellent schools and tight-knit community. Great Kills Park, a large recreational area, offers residents opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The neighborhood also features a variety of shopping and dining options along Hylan Boulevard.
5. New Dorp: New Dorp is a bustling neighborhood located on the eastern shore of Staten Island. It offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, providing residents with a convenient lifestyle. New Dorp is home to the Staten Island Railway, which offers easy access to other parts of the island. The neighborhood also features a vibrant shopping district along New Dorp Lane, offering a wide range of retail stores and restaurants.
Overall, Staten Island offers a diverse range of areas for accommodation, each with its own unique charm and amenities. Whether you prefer waterfront living, a peaceful atmosphere, or convenient access to transportation, Staten Island has something to offer for everyone.
Hotels Map Of Staten Island
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Staten Island.
Transportation To Staten Island
There are several transportation options to Staten Island:
1. Ferry: The Staten Island Ferry is a popular mode of transportation that connects Staten Island to Manhattan. The ferry operates 24/7 and is free of charge. It offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
2. Bus: The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates several bus routes that serve Staten Island. These buses connect different neighborhoods within Staten Island and also provide connections to other boroughs of New York City.
3. Car: Staten Island is accessible by car via several bridges and tunnels. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge connects Staten Island to Brooklyn, while the Goethals Bridge and the Outerbridge Crossing connect it to New Jersey. There are also several highways that provide access to Staten Island, including the Staten Island Expressway (I-278) and the West Shore Expressway (NY-440).
4. Train: Staten Island does not have a direct train connection to the rest of New York City. However, the Staten Island Railway (SIR) operates within Staten Island and provides transportation between different neighborhoods on the island.
5. Ride-sharing services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Staten Island, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors.
6. Bike: Staten Island has several bike lanes and paths, making it possible to travel around the island by bike. There are also bike racks available on the Staten Island Ferry for those who wish to combine biking with ferry transportation.
Nearby Destination From Staten Island
1. Brooklyn: A vibrant borough known for its diverse neighborhoods and iconic attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge.
2. Jersey City: A bustling city with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and a thriving arts and culture scene.
3. Bayonne: A charming town with a rich maritime history and picturesque waterfront parks.
4. Elizabeth: A historic city offering a blend of cultural attractions, shopping centers, and beautiful parks.
5. Newark: A major transportation hub with a vibrant downtown area, renowned museums, and a diverse culinary scene.
6. Perth Amboy: A waterfront city known for its historic architecture, scenic marina, and vibrant Latin American community.
7. Carteret: A small town with a rich industrial heritage, offering waterfront parks and easy access to nearby beaches.
8. Woodbridge: A suburban township with a mix of residential areas, shopping centers, and recreational parks.
9. Linden: A city with a strong industrial presence, featuring a variety of parks, shopping centers, and cultural events.
10. Rahway: A charming town with a vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and a lively downtown area.