Skip to main content

Plan a day trip to Governors Island this spring

Spring is arriving, which means Governors Island is starting to gear up for the outdoor season!

NYC Ferry’s Spring 2024 schedule went into effect on Saturday, March 30. The South Brooklyn route, which was temporarily suspended this winter, has resumeed to Governors Island on weekdays and weekends. Click here to preview schedules and plan your trip accordingly.

More details to help you plan a fun day trip this spring

  • Through the seasonal program Winter Dog Days, dogs are allowed on Governors Island through April 30. Dogs must be leashed while on Governors Island except for in the Winter Dog Park, located in Colonels Row. Learn more here.
  • The Yard adventure playground has opened for the season on March 30; hours are Saturday and Sundays, 12 to 4pm. The playground is very popular; go there straight from the ferry before it reaches capacity!

  • This spring, 20+ food and drink spots will reopen for the season, including Carreau Club Bar & Pétanque (opening for the season in April), Gitano Island beach club (opening in May), and much, much more! Check which vendors are open daily by clicking here.
  • Visitors are always welcome to bring their own food. Starting in May, outdoor grills can be reserved in advance.
  • They are plenty of bikes and other vehicles for rent on the island; learn more here. Blazing Saddles also offers Free Bike Morn­ings from 9am-12pm on week­days (exclud­ing hol­i­days).
  • Visit The Governors Island Urban Farm, which includes GrowNYC’s Teaching Garden (opening May 1), a compost learning center, and a bee sanctuary. There is also a lavender field in South Battery.
  • QC NY spa (for adults only) is open daily year-round. Take in the city skyline from one of their heated outdoor pools.
  • Check out ongoing public art.
  • Visit Slide Hill, NYC’s longest slide at 57 feet, or relax in a hammock in Hammock Grove.

Stay tuned for more family-friendly events coming this summer

Jazz Age Lawn Party: June 8 & 9, August 10 & 11

Porch Stomp Folk Music Festival: mid-June (date to be announced soon)

-Free outdoor screenings by Film at Lincoln Center (films and dates coming soon)

Updated: April 24, 2024. 

The Latest for Brooklyn Parents

Top