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Famous Landmarks in Staten Island

Famous Landmarks in Staten Island

Staten Island New York City, USA Travel Guide

Staten Island Ferry

More than just transportation, the Staten Island Ferry a free, scenic journey across New York Harbor. On the approximately 25-minute ride, you enjoy unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, including prominent skyscrapers, the majestic Statue of Liberty, and historic Ellis Island. The ferry operates 24/7, making it accessible at any time of day or night.

Hours: Operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with varying frequency. Fees: Free for passengers.

Insider Tips

  • Ride during off-peak hours (mid-day, early afternoon) for fewer crowds.
  • Stand on the right side of the ferry when departing Manhattan for the best views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
  • The left side offers a better view of the Manhattan skyline upon returning to Manhattan.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

Overview

  • This sprawling 83-acre campus on the North Shore a true gem.
  • It features a collection of stunning historic landmarked buildings (former sailors' retirement homes).
  • Diverse botanical gardens, museums, and performance spaces.
  • It a peaceful and picturesque retreat.
  • Hours: Grounds open daily from sunrise to dusk. Specific gardens and museums varying hours (check individual websites).
  • Fees: Grounds are free to enter. Some specific gardens, like the New York Chinese Scholar Garden, may a small admission fee (around $5 suggested donation).

Insider Tips

  • Allow several hours to explore the grounds and at least one or two of the gardens or museums.
  • Best visited in spring or early autumn when the botanical gardens are in full bloom or displaying fall colors.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns.
  • Plan your route to see specific gardens or buildings of interest.

The complex large, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.

Historic Richmond Town

  • This authentic recreation of a colonial American village transports you back in time.
  • It features original historic buildings, some dating back to the late 17th century, moved from various locations on Staten Island and meticulously restored.
  • The site includes living history demonstrations, workshops, and seasonal events that depict daily life from the 17th to 19th centuries.
  • Hours vary seasonally; generally open Wednesday-Sunday, 10 AM - 5 PM. Check their website for current hours and event schedules. Admission is typically $10 for adults, though prices may vary.

September 11th Memorial "Postcards"

  • Location & Purpose:

    Located near the St. George Ferry Terminal, this poignant memorial honors the 270 Staten Island residents who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

  • Design & Experience:

    The design features two elegant white wing-like structures, each bearing the profile of a victim, creating a powerful and reflective space. It is open daily, 24 hours, and free to access.

  • Visit Tip:

    Visit during sunrise or sunset when the light interacts with the memorial's design, creating an especially reflective atmosphere. It a quiet place for contemplation.

  • Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge:

    This iconic double-deck suspension bridge connects Staten Island to Brooklyn. It a significant landmark visible from many points on the island's North and East shores, and from the Staten Island Ferry.

  • Bridge Access:

    You cannot walk or drive across it for a tour, but its views are part of the scenery.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Staten Island a range of museums and cultural venues that explore art, science, history, and unique cultural traditions.

Museums at Snug Harbor

  • Staten Island Museum

    Located within Snug Harbor, this museum focuses on art, natural science, and local history. It features rotating exhibits and permanent collections. Hours vary, typically Wednesday-Sunday. Suggested donation of $8 for adults.

  • Staten Island Children's Museum

    Also part of Snug Harbor, this museum hands-on exhibits designed to engage and educate children through interactive play. Hours vary, typically Wednesday-Sunday. Approximately $8 per person.

  • Noble Maritime Collection

    Housed in another historic building at Snug Harbor, this museum dedicated to maritime history, focusing on artist John A. Noble and the working waterfront. Hours vary, typically Wednesday-Sunday. Free.

  • St. George Theatre

    This beautifully restored historic movie palace, built in 1929, now serves as a premier performing arts venue. It hosts diverse events like concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical productions. Hours vary by event schedule. Fees vary by event, purchase tickets in advance.

  • College of Staten Island

    While mainly an academic institution, the College of Staten Island occasionally hosts public lectures, art exhibitions, or performances that are open to the community.

  • Local Art Galleries

    Beyond the main museums, smaller local art galleries exist, especially in areas like St. George and Stapleton, demonstrating local artists' work.

Historical Sites

Beyond Historic Richmond Town, Staten Island boasts several other sites that played roles in American history.

Conference House Park

Located on the southernmost tip of Staten Island, this park is home to the Conference House (c. 1680). It gained historical prominence as the site of the only peace conference during the American Revolution, held in September 1776. The house is open for tours.

Fort Wadsworth

Situated at the Staten Island foot of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Fort Wadsworth one of the oldest military installations in the United States. Visitors can explore its grounds, old batteries, and enjoy panoramic views of the bridge, harbor, and Manhattan skyline.

Additional Historical Context

Staten Island's history as a residential and military outpost over centuries dotted the landscape with sites of historical note, even if they aren't major tourist attractions.

  • Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Hall: Located in St. George, this historic building, though not always open to the public, a significant piece of local military history.
  • Staten Island Railway: While mainly transportation, its long history and unique status as New York City's only entirely within-borough rapid transit line part of the island's historical fabric.
  • Historic Churches and Cemeteries: Numerous historic churches and cemeteries scattered across the island some unique historical insights and architectural beauty.

Natural Attractions

Staten Island a haven for nature lovers, extensive green spaces and waterfront access.

These attractions include diverse ecosystems and recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Staten Island Greenbelt

This vast network of interconnected parks and natural areas encompasses forests, wetlands, and open spaces, making it one of New York City's largest natural areas. It a peaceful escape with miles of trails for hiking and birdwatching. Fees: Free. Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, environmental education programs at the Greenbelt Nature Center.

South Beach and Midland Beach

These popular public beaches stretch along the eastern shore of Staten Island. They feature a boardwalk, a fishing pier, and recreational facilities. Activities: Swimming (seasonal, with lifeguards during summer), sunbathing, cycling or walking on the boardwalk.

Great Kills Park

Part of the National Park Service's Gateway National Recreation Area, Great Kills Park a diverse natural landscapes, including beaches, trails, a marina, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. It a large urban park with various recreational uses.

Additional Green Spaces

High Rock Park

Within the Greenbelt, High Rock Park for its elevated viewpoints and diverse ecosystems. It a tranquil spot for nature walks.

Blood Root Valley

Another serene natural landscape within the Greenbelt, ideal for quiet hikes and birdwatching.

Wolfe's Pond Park

Located on the South Shore, this park a beach, nature trails, and a pond, fishing and picnicking.

Freshkills Park

A transforming former landfill into a vast urban park, with ongoing public access programs and environmental education.

Clove Lakes Park

A beautiful park in central Staten Island with lakes, walking paths, and a historic Staten Island Blacksmith Shop.

Hidden Gems

For those looking to explore beyond the main tourist paths, Staten Island several unique and less-visited attractions.

Distinguished Hidden Gems

  • New York Chinese Scholar Garden (at Snug Harbor): A remarkably authentic and serene classical Chinese garden, designed in the Ming Dynasty style, and one of the few true scholar gardens outside of China.
  • Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art: This unique museum, set in a peaceful hillside garden, dedicated to Tibetan Buddhist art and culture. It houses a significant collection of Himalayan art and artifacts in buildings designed to resemble a Tibetan monastery.
  • Snug Harbor Heritage Farm: Also located within Snug Harbor, this urban farm a glimpse into local agriculture and sustainable practices. It often hosts workshops and events.

Maritime & Local History

Explore More

  • National Lighthouse Museum (St. George): Situated near the ferry terminal, this museum dedicated to the history of lighthouses and lighthouse keepers in the United States.
  • Richmond County Bank Ballpark (Former Site): While the Staten Island Yankees no longer play here, the site near the ferry terminal occasionally hosts events and offers views of the harbor.
  • Local Historical Societies: Smaller historical societies or community centers sometimes host exhibits or events on specific aspects of local history.
  • Walking Tours of Historic Districts: Explore areas like St. George or Stapleton on foot to discover historic architecture and unique local businesses.

Visiting Tips for Hidden Gems

Many of these hidden gems smaller and may have limited hours, so check their websites or call ahead before visiting.

Their quieter nature a more personal and reflective experience compared to larger, busier attractions.

Explore More with GetYourGuide

While exploring Staten Island's distinct charm, expand your horizons with GetYourGuide, a platform for booking attraction tickets and unique tours. Discover more activities and experiences both on Staten Island and across New York City.

Booking Attractions

GetYourGuide streamlines the process of finding and booking tickets for popular attractions.

Benefits

  • Easy online booking for museum admissions and tours.
  • Mobile tickets for convenience.
  • Customer support for any queries.

Unique Experiences

Beyond standard tickets, GetYourGuide includes unique tours and activities that enhance your visit.

Options

  • Guided city tours for insights.
  • Specialty food tours or culinary workshops.
  • Boat cruises offering alternative perspectives of landmarks.

CityPass & Bundles

GetYourGuide sometimes partner with CityPass or other bundles that savings if you plan to visit multiple major attractions in NYC.

Benefits

  • Cost savings on multiple entries.
  • Time savings by skipping ticket lines.
  • Curated itineraries for efficient sightseeing.

Check the specific offerings available for New York City to maximize your trip.

Customer Reviews

GetYourGuide features customer reviews and ratings for each activity, a valuable resource for making informed decisions.

Trust and Transparency

  • Real-world feedback from previous travelers.
  • Transparency on tour quality and expectations.

Read reviews to select experiences that align with your interests and preferences.

Flexibility & Accessibility

GetYourGuide some flexible booking options, including free cancellation on many tours up to 24 hours in advance.

Peace of Mind

  • Book with confidence, even if plans change.
  • Accessibility information available for many tours.
  • Multilingual tour options are often available.

Check specific activity details for cancellation policies and accessibility information.

Discover More in NYC

Manhattan Sightseeing

Find tickets for Broadway shows, museum entries, and skyline tours in Manhattan.

Brooklyn & Queens Experiences

Explore walking tours, food tours, and cultural experiences in other NYC boroughs.

Day Trips from NYC

Consider booking guided day trips to nearby attractions outside the city, like Niagara Falls or Washington D.C.

Maximizing Your Visit

GetYourGuide a useful platform for planning and booking attractions and activities, streamlining your travel experience and allowing you to focus on enjoying your visit to Staten Island and beyond.