Summer is here, and Governors Island is open daily! Here’s everything you need to know to plan a fun day trip for the whole family.
Getting to Governors Island by ferry
- During the summer, direct ferries run Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday from two Brooklyn locations: Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park and Red Hook/Atlantic Basin. Click here for schedules and tickets. Reserve your weekend tickets in advance, before they sell out!
- NYC Ferry, the City’s public ferry service, also serves Governors Island daily year-round, with stops on the Lower East Side, Wall Street, and along the Brooklyn waterfront. Click here for NYC Ferry information, ticketing, and schedules.
More tips to help you plan a fun day trip this summer
- There are 20+ food and drink spots to explore, including Carreau Club Bar & Pétanque, Gitano Island beach club, and much, much more! Check which vendors are open daily by clicking here.
- The Yard adventure playground is open Saturdays and Sundays, 12 to 4pm. The playground is very popular; go there straight from the ferry before it reaches capacity!
- Visitors are always welcome to bring their own food. 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, 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 installations, exhibitions, and events.
- Visit Slide Hill, NYC’s longest slide at 57 feet, or relax in a hammock in Hammock Grove.
Mark your calendar for Governors Island events this summer
- New York City Poetry Festival: July 13 & 14
- Jazz Age Lawn Party: August 10 & 11
- See all events here!
Updated: June 25, 2024.
