Turns Out There’s More Than One Island in NYC
This summer, explore New York City’s islands big and small — from famous Ellis to tucked away City, there’s an Island for everyone.
We all know that Manhattan is an island, but it turns out that New York City is actually an archipelago. Here are our favorite smaller islands, and the best ways to take advantage of these little paradises (and their 578 miles of waterfront).
Governors Island
In the heart of New York Harbor, just yards away from lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, sits the 172-acre Governors Island. It once operated as a military base for the US Army and Coast Guard, and now functions as “shared space for art and play.”
With miles of car-free paths and two bike rental services, the island is a cyclist’s paradise, and two food courts with rotating vendors offer tasty post-ride options. Governors plays host to an eclectic variety of events throughout the summer, from badminton tournaments to poetry festivals, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island is nestled right between Manhattan and Queens, providing a nearby getaway with spectacular views of the city. The island’s many attractions include the dilapidated Renwick Smallpox Hospital, the Octagon gallery, and the Blackwell Island Lighthouse.
Together with the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial Four Freedoms Park, these sites make the island a fascinating living piece of the city’s history. On a sunny day, take a stroll through the park and enjoy a picnic on Roosevelt Island.
Coney Island
The famous amusement park and beach destination is a must for tourists and locals alike. From delicious fare to the Ferris wheel and aquarium, Coney Island has no shortage of offerings to satisfy every taste. Grab an ice cream cone from Rita’s and take a stroll along the beach after sampling the world-famous hot dogs from Nathan’s flagship location.
Ellis Island/Liberty Island
Ellis Island and Liberty Island are two of the most storied attractions in New York City, and possibly the country. Indeed, the islands have become a symbol of American opportunity, and the best way to truly get a sense of their history is by experiencing them firsthand.
Discover a piece of your own past and look for your family’s name among the 700,000 others on the Wall of Honor; bring to life the immigrant experience at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration; or climb to the top of the Statue of Liberty to see the city from a whole new perspective.
City Island
For lovers of seafood and Italian cuisine, there is no place quite like City Island, just beyond the Bronx on Long Island South. To some, the island may feel more like a small town than part of a borough, and its 4,400 residents produce arguably the freshest, most delicious seafood in New York City.
There are more than 30 restaurants to choose from on the mile-and-a-half long island, from well known staples like Lobster Box to smaller joints like Black Whale. An established art and music scene make it a great date night outing.
Randall’s/Wards Islands
The conjoined Randall’s and Ward’s Islands are dominated by parks, making them the perfect escape from the city for the outdoorsy and athletically inclined. A driving range, athletic fields, and playgrounds provide ample opportunity for an unforgettable family outing.
Take a historical tour to learn about previous facilities that once occupied these 480 acres, including a boys’ home, a hospital, and a home for Civil War veterans (at one point in its history, it also served as a burial ground for 100,000 bodies — but you might want to keep that one from your kids).
(Image credits: skeeze/Pixabay; Dianne Rosete/flickr; acidpolly/flickr; anikaskywalker/Pixabay; Unsplash/Pixabay; Jordan Confino/Pixabay; gigi_nyc/flickr)
