Staten Island

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to Historic Richmond Town, an authentic living history village that showcases Staten Island’s colonial past. Wander through restored 17th and 18th-century buildings and watch artisans demonstrate traditional crafts. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the rich heritage and early American life on Staten Island.

Have lunch at the historic village’s café, savoring local flavors in a charming setting. Spend the afternoon exploring the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and period gardens. Participate in interactive workshops or seasonal events that bring history to life for all ages.

Head to the nearby Staten Island Greenbelt to enjoy a peaceful sunset walk among lush natural surroundings. Reflect on the day’s experiences while taking in serene views and birdwatching opportunities. Finish your evening with a casual dinner at a local restaurant featuring Staten Island’s diverse culinary scene.

Begin with a scenic ferry ride from Staten Island to Lower Manhattan, enjoying stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York City skyline. Upon returning, take a leisurely stroll along the Staten Island Waterfront Esplanade. Capture photos of sailboats, piers, and the bustling harbor activity.

Visit the Staten Island Yacht Club area and have lunch at a waterfront eatery offering fresh seafood and panoramic water views. Explore nearby parks such as Conference House Park, where historic landmarks meet peaceful shoreline trails. Take time to relax on the beach or explore the maritime history exhibits in the area.

Watch the sunset over the New York Harbor from the Staten Island Waterfront. Enjoy a casual dinner at a waterfront bistro, savoring dishes with locally sourced ingredients. End the evening with a serene walk along the illuminated promenade, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.

Set out early for a refreshing hike through Staten Island’s Greenbelt, one of the largest natural areas in New York City. Explore winding trails that lead through forests, wetlands, and meadows teeming with wildlife. Stop at the Greenbelt Nature Center to learn about local ecosystems and upcoming nature programs.

Pack a picnic and relax at one of the Greenbelt’s scenic picnic areas surrounded by towering trees and chirping birds. Continue exploring lesser-known trails that offer quiet solitude and beautiful vistas. Take a moment to visit the Bluebelt wetlands, an innovative stormwater management system that doubles as a wildlife habitat.

After a day in nature, dine at a farm-to-table restaurant on Staten Island that highlights fresh, local produce. Enjoy a calm evening walk in a nearby neighborhood park or along the perimeter of the Greenbelt. Unwind by sharing stories of the day’s wildlife sightings and peaceful moments.

Spend the morning exploring Snug Harbor Cultural Center, a historic complex featuring art museums, galleries, and performance spaces. Wander the exquisitely maintained botanical gardens, including the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, a serene and authentic Asian garden experience. Attend a morning art workshop or guided garden tour to deepen your appreciation of the site.

Enjoy lunch at the onsite café or nearby eateries offering diverse menus inspired by global flavors. Visit the Staten Island Museum to see exhibits ranging from natural sciences to fine art, highlighting regional culture. Stroll through the Mediterranean Garden and the Rose Garden to admire seasonal blooms and landscaping artistry.

Catch an evening performance or concert at one of Snug Harbor’s theaters or outdoor venues, showcasing local talent and cultural programs. Savor dinner at a nearby restaurant that celebrates Staten Island’s multicultural community with innovative dishes. Take a leisurely walk around the center’s grounds under soft lighting, embracing the peaceful ambiance before nightfall.

Start your day at the Staten Island Zoo, home to an impressive collection of reptiles, birds, and mammals native to the region and beyond. Participate in animal feedings and educational talks that engage visitors of all ages. Explore the zoo’s petting areas and interactive exhibits designed to inspire curiosity and conservation awareness.

Have lunch at the zoo’s picnic areas or visit nearby local diners offering kid-friendly menus. Spend the afternoon at Clove Lakes Park, where you can rent paddleboats, play on playgrounds, or stroll around the scenic lake. Take a relaxing break by the water or enjoy some outdoor games in the expansive green spaces.

Wrap up the day with a casual dinner in Staten Island’s bustling St. George neighborhood, featuring family-friendly dining options. Enjoy an ice cream treat or dessert at a local parlor to delight younger travelers. End the evening with a calm walk along the waterfront promenade, watching boats gently glide by under the stars.

Begin with a visit to local art galleries around Staten Island, such as the Staten Island Arts space, where emerging artists showcase their work. Take a guided tour or meet artists in their studios to learn about their creative processes and inspirations. Enjoy coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the artistic vibe of the neighborhood.

Grab lunch at a trendy bistro that supports local artisans and farmers. Spend the afternoon attending a hands-on art workshop or pottery class offered by community art centers. Browse through unique handmade crafts and artworks at local markets or pop-up events that celebrate Staten Island’s creative community.

Dine at a stylish restaurant known for its artistic ambiance and innovative menu. Attend an evening gallery opening or live music event that highlights local talent. Take a nighttime stroll through a vibrant arts district, admiring public murals and street art illuminated by soft lighting.

Arrive early at South Beach to enjoy the soft sand and refreshing ocean breeze before the crowds. Take a morning swim or try stand-up paddleboarding in the gentle waves. Walk along the boardwalk, stopping to watch fishermen and beachgoers start their day by the water.

Have lunch at beachfront cafés offering fresh seafood and casual fare with ocean views. Rent a kayak or join a guided boating tour to explore the nearby waterways and spot local wildlife. Relax on the beach with a good book or take part in beach volleyball games organized by local groups.

Stay for the stunning sunset as the sky transforms over the Atlantic Ocean, painting a perfect end to your beach day. Enjoy a seaside dinner at a popular grill or seafood restaurant, savoring freshly caught fish and regional specialties. Take a peaceful evening walk along the shore, listening to the calming sounds of the waves.

Start at Fort Wadsworth, one of the oldest military installations in the United States with spectacular views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. Explore the historic fortifications, underground batteries, and interpretive exhibits detailing Staten Island’s defense history. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the strategic importance of this waterfront landmark.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the fort’s scenic picnic areas overlooking New York Harbor. Walk along the trails that connect Fort Wadsworth to the Staten Island Greenbelt, combining history with nature. Visit nearby Battery Weed and Fort Tompkins to deepen your understanding of coastal defense systems.

Head to a nearby tavern or gastropub to relax and enjoy hearty American fare in a cozy setting. Reflect on the day’s discoveries while enjoying views of the harbor at twilight. End your evening with a quiet stroll along the water’s edge, watching ships pass under the glowing bridge lights.

Begin your culinary adventure with a visit to the Staten Island Greenmarket, where local farmers sell fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods. Sample artisanal breads, fresh fruits, and homemade jams while chatting with vendors about their craft. Stop at a nearby café for a coffee and pastry to energize your day.

Embark on a food tour through neighborhoods like St. George and Tottenville, tasting authentic dishes from Italian, Caribbean, and Eastern European communities. Visit family-run bakeries, delis, and specialty markets to experience the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beloved pizzeria or ethnic eatery known for its authentic flavors.

Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights Staten Island’s fresh local ingredients and culinary creativity. Pair your meal with wines or craft beers from local breweries. Finish with a dessert tasting at a popular ice cream shop or chocolatier, celebrating the island’s sweet side.

Spend the morning wandering through the Staten Island Botanical Gardens, where themed gardens showcase diverse plant species in beautifully landscaped settings. Take a guided tour focusing on native plants and sustainable gardening practices. Photograph vibrant flowers, ornamental trees, and serene water features throughout the gardens.

Enjoy lunch at a nearby café surrounded by garden views. Visit the nearby Staten Island Greenbelt Nature Center to complement your botanical experience with interactive exhibits about local flora and fauna. Participate in a gardening workshop or seasonal event if available.

Have dinner at a charming neighborhood restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and gardens. Take an evening stroll through public parks featuring outdoor sculptures and art installations. Reflect on the day’s natural beauty while enjoying the cool evening air and peaceful surroundings.