My favorite part of having visitors in town (other than getting to see friends and family that we love!) is that it gets us out. All too often my weekends devolve into housework and blog work and crappy TV, know what I mean? It’s our mission this fall to really take advantage of the city. I’ve been wanting to visit Governors Island for as long as I can remember, and when I learned the island was only open through the end of September- I knew we had to make it this weekend.
I was ready! Sadly my camera died five seconds after we took this photo. Alas, we’ll have to make do with iPhone ones!
Half the fun in visiting Governors Island, or other ports and riverside spots around the city, is the ferry. The views are incredible! And on a day like yesterday, it really doesn’t get any better.
The island itself sits just 800 yards from lower Manhattan and consists of 172 acres of park land. Back in the day it was a military base, but in the last few years the city has reconfigured it into public park space. There are sprawling lawns with picnic tables, art installations, bike rental shops, museums, food trucks, all sorts of events for kids… it’s kind of endless. You could really spend the whole day there.
We got hot dogs and beers at this hilarious “beach.” It’s actually a concert venue on the weekends, and I’m guessing the sandy area is more mosh pit like than it was yesterday.
And last but not least- all the sailboats! There’s something about being on a boat or island and seeing other boats that immediately makes me feel like I’m on vacation. All in all, it was a great way to recharge for the busy week ahead. Hope your weekend was just as energizing.
In all the years I lived in NYC, I don’t think I ever visited Governor’s Island. Now that it’s a public park, I must check it out. Thanks for putting it on my radar. And that beach? Hilarious!
Sounds like a great day! and the iphone pictures turned out really well
I love this. My dad actually grew up on Governor’s Island in the 60s, so it’s really fun to see photos of what it looks like today. If I ever make it to NYC, I am definitely going to make a trip
Oh wow, Joelle! That is so fascinating! I’d love to know what it was like. There were all these little houses and we kept saying “What is this place! Who lives here??” If you learn more from him definitely let me know
I’ve been dying to go out there, but after 3 years in NYC I have yet to make it!
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