Image courtesy Governors Island Blog

Nothing is more distinctly New York City than its signature hustle and bustle…after all, it is the city that never sleeps.  But every now and then the New Yorker in all of us needs a break, a time to feel refreshed, rejuvenated and replenished. Fortunately, we have found the perfect escape – and it comes in the form of a neighboring island.

Governors Island is a historical landmark recognized for its view of the city and serene, relaxed atmosphere that can make any day picnic perfect.  After the City of New York purchased Governors Island from the U.S. Coast Guard in 2003 for just $1, the island became a popular place for a weekend retreat. Once used as military baracks, Governors Island now is a place of polo ponies, bicycle riding, picnics, performance art and miniature golf – just to name a few.  This summer our favorite Governors Island day so far has been the bi-annual Jazz Festival – a Gatsby affair not to be missed - and, while still haven’t yet made up our minds about taking trapeze lessons, we have high hopes for September 5th’s Food Truck Festival. Won’t you join us?

Hours:
Friday – Sunday and all Holiday Mondays, from May 27 – September 25
Fridays – 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturdays, Sundays, Holiday Mondays – 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Getting to Governors Island:
Begin walking to the 59th Street Lexington stop and hop on the  heading Downtown. Get off at Wall Street and walk to 10 South Street Seaport…then sit back, relax and enjoy the complimentary Governors Island ferry.

What to Wear
Dress: casual and ready to relax. The island can get pretty sunny so make sure to bring your SPF, sunglasses and floppy hat. Often visitors decide that they want to explore the island, we recommend bringing a tote bag to carry all of your belongings (we like Marc by Marc Jacobs’ nylon tote but also are keen to store our picnic blanket in a canvas bag). Remember to plan ahead and have an idea of what you want to do on the island so that once you depart from the ferry, the fun can begin.

Out & About: Discover more of our New York City Secrets
Read On with Strand: Booking It
A Musical Evening: Catch Me if You Can
Aesthetically Pleasing: A Night at the Museum

For more on Governors Island summer days click here
Or call 212 440 2200