Governors Island.

Governors Island is accessible by ferry from the Battery Maritime Building at the southern tip of Manhattan and is one of the most surprising summer destinations in the city. The island is car-free and has a network of bike paths, open lawns, art installations, hammocks between the trees, and views of lower Manhattan and the harbor from the hills in the southern part of the island.

Rent a bike when you get there (they have rentals right off the ferry) and ride around the whole island. The Hills on the south end have incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline. There are hammock groves and food vendors and usually some kind of art installation or festival happening. The ferry from the Battery Maritime Building is free on weekends before noon.

I wrote more about Governors Island in my parks guide but the short version is this. Go. It is one of the best things about living in New York and most tourists don’t even know it exists.

Governors Island is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve left New York City entirely even though you can see the skyline from every angle. It’s a 172-acre island in New York Harbor that’s only accessible by ferry (a short 7-minute ride from the Battery Maritime Building in Lower Manhattan or from Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park).

The Hills on the south end of the island are the showstopper. They’re man-made hills built from recycled material and when you climb to the top of Outlook Hill you get a 360-degree panoramic view of the Statue of Liberty, Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the harbor. I took my parents here and my mom literally said “this is the best view I’ve ever seen in my life.” She has been to the Grand Canyon.

Rent a bike when you get there (they have Citi Bikes and rental shops). The island is big enough that walking the whole thing takes a while. There are food vendors, hammock groves, and usually some kind of festival or event happening. It is genuinely one of the best-kept secrets in New York even though it’s getting more popular every year.

Governors Island is a 172-acre island accessible by ferry from Manhattan. Home to unique attractions like historic forts, art installations, and some of the best views of Manhattan (and the Statue of Liberty), the park is popular with locals during the summer.

I usually rent a bike and do a slow loop around the perimeter, stopping for lunch from Little Eva’s or lounging on the grassy hills overlooking the Statue of Liberty. There are always events happening — picnics, jazz concerts, yoga sessions — and plenty of space to do absolutely nothing.

One summer, I even spent the night in a luxury tent with views of the skyline. Yes, glamping in New York City is real.

Governors Island is one of the best things to do in NYC in summer if you want fresh air, open space, and a break from the pace of the city without leaving it entirely. It’s easy, affordable, and perfect for families, couples, or solo wandering.

Governors Island National Monument is one of the most important National Park sites in NYC. Once a fort and military training ground for more than 200 years, the monument preserves the island’s military past.

Sign up for free guided tours of Fort Jay and Castle Williams (open May-November) to learn more about the military operations that took place on the island. Taking time to learn about the island’s role in harbor defense will give you a deeper appreciation for the area while visiting Governors Island.

During my first visit, I spent four hours discovering green spaces, observing picnickers, and climbing a rock outcropping for stunning views of NYC and the Statue of Liberty. Whether exploring history or tanning on a summer day, it’s one of the best non-touristy experiences in NYC.

You will find history dating back to the Revolutionary War making it a great spot for history buffs. You can walk around Fort Jay and Castle Williams which are both run by the National Park Service. 

All 172 glorious acres of Governors Island are open to dogs (and people) every Saturday and Sunday in February. To get the the island, you’ll need to take a public ferry. During weekends in February, dogs will be allowed to ride the ferry to Governors Island (using the outdoor areas) until 3pm. After 3pm, dogs won’t be allowed to board the inbound ferry to Governors Island.

However, if you find yourself on the island past 3pm, fret not. Dogs are allowed on the outbound ferry until the last ferry leaves the island. The best part? The island and ferry offer stunning views of New York City!

Only a 10 minute ferry ride from lower Manhattan, Governor’s Island is a relaxing reprieve from the nonstop pace of New York City in summer.

You will find history dating back to the Revolutionary War at the island making it a great spot for history buffs. You can walk around Fort Jay and Castle Williams which are both run by the National Park Service.

If at the end of the day relaxing is more your style I suggest you bring a book and hang out at Hammock Grove. It’s a dedicated space for an array of hammocks available for visitors to enjoy. August in NYC is a fantastic time to visit Governors Island, where you can spend the day exploring or relaxing.