Governors Island Ferry New York City
A car-free oasis in NYC offering stunning skyline views, historic forts, and recreational activities via a scenic ferry ride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free ferry rides!
Governors Island Ferry New York City
Best Time
Free ferry rides!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A car-free oasis in NYC offering stunning skyline views, historic forts, and recreational activities via a scenic ferry ride.
"An easy and underrated escape from NYC chaos with skyline views for free."
💰 Free Weekend Ferry
Ride the ferry for free on Saturdays and Sundays before 11 AM!
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Explore the island with ease by renting a bike. Bring your own for convenience too!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Skyline Views
Various points across the island
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and harbor. A true NYC postcard moment.
Slide Hill
Near the historic forts
Experience the longest slide in NYC! A thrilling and fun activity for all ages, offering a unique perspective of the island.
Historic Forts
Castle Williams and Fort Jay
Step back in time exploring 19th-century military fortifications, offering a glimpse into New York's past.
QC New York Spa
Historic army barrack buildings
An oasis of relaxation with stunning city views, offering a luxurious escape with various wellness experiences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Tickets & Timing
Island Exploration Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Free Weekend Ferry
Ride the ferry for free on Saturdays and Sundays before 11 AM!
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Explore the island with ease by renting a bike. Bring your own for convenience too!
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy the abundant green spaces and stunning views.
🚶♀️ Stroller & Bike Space
Space is limited on the ferry, arrive early for bikes and strollers.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Free Weekend Ferry
Ride the ferry for free on Saturdays and Sundays before 11 AM!
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Explore the island with ease by renting a bike. Bring your own for convenience too!
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy the abundant green spaces and stunning views.
🚶♀️ Stroller & Bike Space
Space is limited on the ferry, arrive early for bikes and strollers.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warm days, as you'll be doing a lot of exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Governors Island as an easy, affordable, and beautiful escape from NYC. The ferry ride offers stunning skyline views, and the island itself provides ample green space for relaxation, picnics, and biking. While some wish for more open-air ferry deck access, the overall experience is consistently praised as a hidden gem for a peaceful day out.
"The best way to get to Governors Island, this ferry operates from an historic ferry terminal. The inside of the terminal features a great mural including a depiction of the first submarine, the "Turtle" from 1776. From the ferry you have fabulous views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty."
Nils Paellmann
"Our visit to Governors Island was an absolute delight! The ferry ride over is quick, smooth, and affordable only $5 round trip which makes it such an easy getaway from the city. Once on the island, we were met with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the harbor.
It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic, a bike ride, or just a peaceful walk. There’s plenty of open space, shaded areas, and a laid back vibe that makes it ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind. Whether you’re going for the views, the green space, or just a quick escape, Governors Island is a hidden gem worth exploring."
HolySocom
"⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 — Easy ride to a perfect day
Took the ferry to Governors Island and honestly, it’s one of the easiest and most underrated escapes from NYC chaos. Tickets were just $5 round trip (free before 11 AM on weekends), and the ride takes about 10 minutes. Boats leave all day from downtown Manhattan. Super smooth, no drama, and you get skyline views for free.
That said, even though the ride is short, I really wish the outside upper deck was open. It was a gorgeous, sunny Saturday and they kept it closed. Why?! Let us enjoy the breeze and views.
Once you’re on the island, it feels like a mini vacation. Wide open green space, hammocks, giant slides, art installations, and plenty of bikes. We grabbed tacos, wandered around the forts, and chilled under the trees. You can rent a bike or bring your own. There’s even a fancy spa if that’s your thing (not mine).
Ferry back was quick and on time. Pro tip: bring water, sunscreen, and a blanket if you plan to hang out for a while.
Forget sweating in Central Park. Go to Governors Island. It’s the real deal."
maciek macak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can catch the Governors Island ferry from Lower Manhattan (Battery Maritime Building) and Brooklyn (Pier 6). The ride is short, typically around 8-10 minutes.
Ferry schedules vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check the official Governors Island website or the NYC Ferry app for the most up-to-date timings before your visit.
Yes, there is a ferry service to Governors Island from Brooklyn, typically departing from Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Yes, you can bring your bike on the ferry, but space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
The standard ferry ticket price is typically $5 round trip. However, you can ride for free on Saturdays and Sundays before 11 AM. Senior citizens may also have discounted or free fares.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can often buy tickets at the ferry terminal, purchasing in advance is recommended, especially for weekend trips or during peak season, to ensure availability and avoid queues.
Yes, the ferry to Governors Island is free on Saturdays and Sundays before 11 AM. This is a great tip for budget travelers!
Governors Island is typically open daily from late spring through fall. Specific opening and closing times for the island and ferry service can be found on the official Governors Island website.
No, there is no entrance fee to Governors Island itself. The cost is associated with the ferry ride to get there.
Reservations for bike spots on the ferry are not typically available. Bike space is on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's advisable to arrive early.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Governors Island offers a variety of activities including biking, picnicking, exploring historic forts like Castle Williams, enjoying art installations, and relaxing in Hammock Cove.
Absolutely! Governors Island is very family-friendly, with plenty of open space for kids to run around, playgrounds, and the popular Slide Hill.
Yes, bike rentals are readily available on Governors Island, making it easy to explore the entire island at your own pace.
The island provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the harbor from various vantage points, including Outlook Hill.
Yes, there are several food vendors and cafes on Governors Island offering a range of options, from casual snacks to more substantial meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Governors Island is a photographer's dream! Capture iconic shots of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the historic architecture. Outlook Hill offers fantastic panoramic views.
Yes, you can get excellent views and photos of the Statue of Liberty from Governors Island, especially from the western side of the island.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday afternoons can also provide softer light with fewer crowds.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of private areas or any specific signage regarding photography in certain locations.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and public spaces like Governors Island to ensure safety and preserve the experience for others. Check the official Governors Island regulations for specifics.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
and explore the open fields perfect for picnics and games. Bike rentals are available, making it easy to navigate with little ones.Pack snacks and drinks, though food vendors are available. The historical forts can also spark curiosity. It's an easy and affordable escape that feels worlds away from the city bustle, offering a memorable day out for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Pack a picnic to share amidst the island's serene green spaces, or consider a visit to the luxurious QC New York Spa for a pampering experience.+1 Renting bikes for a leisurely ride or simply finding a quiet spot to watch the sunset over the harbor offers a perfect blend of activity and relaxation.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Governors Island Ferry Experience
+1 Tickets are generally $5 round trip, but a fantastic tip for budget travelers is that the ferry is free on Saturdays and Sundays before 11 AM.While the ferry is frequent, it's important to note that space for bikes and strollers is limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Exploring Governors Island: Activities and Attractions
History buffs can explore Castle Williams and Fort Jay, well-preserved 19th-century fortifications that offer a tangible connection to the island's military past. The island is also a canvas for art, with various installations and exhibitions scattered throughout.Beyond the structured attractions, Governors Island excels as a place for relaxation and recreation. Hammock Cove is a popular spot to unwind, and the vast green spaces are perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Renting a bike is highly recommended to cover more ground and discover hidden gems, from scenic overlooks to charming historic buildings. For those seeking ultimate pampering, the QC New York Spa offers a luxurious wellness experience with stunning city vistas.+1Governors Island for Families
Beyond the slides, there are playgrounds, ample open green spaces for running and playing, and opportunities for easy bike rides suitable for families.
Many visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy a picnic or simply let kids burn off energy. The historical aspects, like the forts, can also be engaging for curious young minds, offering a blend of fun and education.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit