Governors Island is located within New York Harbor's Buttermilk Channel between the New York City boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan, open to the public as a lovely public park during the summer and autumn months.
The 172-acre island was long known as an important United States Army and Coast Guard site, only recently opened to the public as a tourist destination.
Today, you can explore the island's lovely Governors Island National Monument, which elaborates on the island's military history through a variety of exhibits and interpretive trails. Couples can embark on guided walking tours overseen by the National Park Service or enjoy opportunities for outdoor recreational activities like rock climbing and ziplining.
Each year, the island hosts the annual Governors Island Art Fair, which showcases some of the New York City area's best arts and crafts vendors.
Get Ready to Go!
- 1. Plan & Book:
- Visit the website and book directly, or call ahead to confirm hours.
- Find your stay: If needed, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read reviews and book directly with the hotel, requesting any special amenities (romantic, kid-friendly, pet-friendly).
- Book your flight: If flying, compare flights and book directly with the airline. Add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
- Plan your trip:
- Estimate your driving time: Use Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.