NYC’s Greenest Borough Unveiled!

Your Guide to New York City’s Borough of Parks

Staten Island is nicknamed the “Borough of Parks” for good reason – it has over 170 parks to discover, including beautiful beaches along the eastern shore overlooking New York Harbor and Raritan Bay. No matter if you love the outdoors, cultural sites, or community events, Staten Island offers activities and attractions for every interest. Explore all this unique borough has to offer!

Experience the Charm and Spirit of Staten Island

Nature

Staten Island, the greenest borough in NYC, has over a third of its land covered by parks. Discover the Greenbelt, a 2,800-acre sanctuary with a wide range of wildlife. High Rock Park is a great place to experience serenity, thanks to its beautiful ponds and streams. Visit the Staten Island Botanical Garden or Clove Lakes Park for boating, fishing, birdwatching, and history. Enjoy stunning views from the free Staten Island Ferry ride.

Culture

Staten Island’s rich history and culture span centuries, offering a fascinating journey through time. Visit Historic Richmond Town, a museum complex with 28 historic buildings. Tour Snug Harbor Cultural Center’s elegant 1800s buildings, showcasing diverse architectural styles and featuring various museums, theaters, galleries, and learning opportunities. Dive into the captivating history at the Staten Island Museum.

Community

Staten Island’s vibrant community spirit, reflecting its diversity, offers year-round events. Join the Fence Show and Biergarten at Snug Harbor, the St. George Day Festival at Tompkinsville Park, or the Richmond County Fair at Historic Richmond Town. Explore the island’s small-town charm through historic landmarks, rural neighborhoods, and tight-knit communities. Discover the best community events and attractions on the island.

Plan Your Visit to Staten Island

Did You Know?

1524 Discovery: Staten Island was discovered by Giovanni da Verrazzano.
Bridge Connections: One bridge links Staten Island to Brooklyn and three to New Jersey.
Comic Book History: The original headquarters in the G.I. Joe comic book was set in Fort Tompkins at Fort Wadsworth.
Creepy Landmark: There’s a creepy abandoned farm colony in Staten Island’s Greenbelt.
Cultural Spots: Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art.
Dutch Naming: Named after the Staten-Generaal by Dutch settlers after purchasing it from the Unami Indians in 1630.

Famous Inventions: Chewing gum was invented here.
Film Shoots: Hosted 100 film shoots in 2017, including Gotham and Orange is the New Black.
Highest Point on the East Coast: Todt Hill, standing 401 feet above sea level, is the highest natural point on the Atlantic coast from Florida to Cape Cod.
Historical Sites: Home to the Conference House and Sandy Ground, the oldest inhabited free Black community.
NFL History: Staten Island used to have an NFL team, the Stapletons.
Pop Culture: The Westeros map from Game of Thrones is modeled after Staten Island.

Population: Approximately 500,000 residents.
Size: Third-largest borough, 13.9 miles long and 7.3 miles wide.
South Beach Boardwalk: One of the world’s longest at 2.5 miles.
Southernmost Point: The southernmost point in New York State is at Staten Island’s Conference House Park.
Sports History: Bobby Thomson, who hit “The Shot Heard ’Round the World,” was a Staten Islander.
Staten Island Ferry: Free since 1997.
Wu-Tang Clan: The iconic rap group calls Staten Island home.

Ready to explore Staten Island? Start your visit today by checking out our travel itineraries, where you can find information on how to get here, what to do, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover NYC’s greenest and most historic borough. Join us on this journey as we explore Staten Island! As the saying goes, “If you haven’t seen Staten Island, you haven’t really seen New York!”

Things to Do in Staten Island

Discover the Top Day Trips in Staten Island

Staten Island Ferry approaching St. George Terminal

Stepping Off the Ferry

Discover the wonders of Staten Island with our full-day and half-day itineraries, starting right from the ferry terminal for a convenient and exciting adventure.

Arts & Culture

Experience the best of Staten Island’s arts and culture through our tailored full-day and half-day itineraries, guiding you to the top artistic and cultural spots in the area.

Carousel For All Children in Staten Island

Family Fun

Enjoy family fun in Staten Island with our specially designed full-day and half-day itineraries that take you to the most enjoyable and kid-friendly attractions.

Rich History and Nature

Explore Staten Island’s historical landmarks and natural sites in a comprehensive 1-day itinerary. Perfect for those interested in history and nature.

Maritime Exploration

If you are interested in maritime life, sea shanties, or lighthouses, Staten Island offers several attractions that showcase its contributions to the maritime industry.

Revolutionary History

Explore Conference House Park’s historic sites in Staten Island. Learn about its Revolutionary history and enjoy a comprehensive day trip itinerary.