Staten Island in New York: Is it worth a visit?

April 2, 2025 Citie to Travel Comments Off

Staten Island is one of the five boroughs of New York City and is located southwest of Manhattan. This borough is quieter and less touristy than the other parts of the city, but that doesn’t mean there is nothing to do. From beautiful natural parks and historic sites to cozy neighborhoods and good food – Staten Island has a surprising amount to offer. In this blog you will read everything you need to know for a visit to this special island.

The history of Staten Island

Staten Island has a long history. The island was originally inhabited by the Lenape Indians before European explorers discovered it in the 17th century. Henry Hudson set foot here in 1609, and later the island became part of the Dutch colony of New Netherland. Staten Island got its name from the States General of the Netherlands. In 1664, the English took over and it became part of the British colony of New York. Since 1898, Staten Island has officially belonged to New York City.

What kind of neighborhood is Staten Island?

Staten Island is the most peaceful part of New York City. Unlike Manhattan and Brooklyn you will find lots of greenery, wide streets and low-rise buildings. The atmosphere is relaxed and less hectic, making it a nice place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Staten Island has a mix of residential neighborhoods, historic sites and natural areas, making it interesting for a variety of visitors.

Neighborhoods of Staten Island

Staten Island has several neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere. Here are a few great spots for tourists:

1. St. George – The first neighborhood you see when you arrive on the Staten Island Ferry. Here you will find the Staten Island Museum and the Empire Outlets shopping center.

2. Tottenville – A quiet neighborhood with old houses and a historic atmosphere.

3. Stapleton – An up-and-coming neighborhood with art, cafes and renovated buildings.

4. Richmond Town – Here is Historic Richmond Town, an open-air museum where you can see what Staten Island used to look like.

Sightseeing in Staten Island

When you visit Staten Island, there are several fun places to explore:

1. Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – A cultural center with beautiful gardens, museums and art.

2. Staten Island Greenbelt – A large nature reserve with hiking trails and lots of wildlife.

3. Fort Wadsworth – An old military fort with a beautiful view of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.

4. National Lighthouse Museum – A museum about the history of lighthouses in the US.

5. Staten Island Zoo – A small but fun zoo with lots of reptiles.

Parks in Staten Island

For nature lovers, Staten Island has many beautiful parks. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Clove Lakes Park – A park with hiking trails, lakes and bridges.

2. Wolfe’s Pond Park – A park with a beach and forest, ideal for a picnic.

3. Blue Heron Park – A quiet place for bird watching and enjoying nature.

Shopping in Staten Island

Shopping on Staten Island is less crowded than in Manhattan, but there are a few great places to shop. Empire Outlets, near the ferry terminal, is the most famous shopping spot. Here you can find designer clothes at discounts. For a local experience, you can also visit small boutiques and antique stores.

Is Staten Island safe for tourists?

Staten Island is generally a safe borough. Crime is lower than in other parts of New York. As always, it is smart to watch your belongings and be careful in quiet areas at night.

Eating and drinking in Staten Island

Staten Island has a surprising number of good eateries. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Denino’s Pizzeria – Known for its New York-style pizzas.

2. Ruddy & Dean – A steakhouse with a nice view.

3. Enoteca Maria – Here, Italian grandmothers (nonnas) cook dishes from their own region.

4. Killmeyer’s Old Bavaria Inn – A German restaurant with an old-fashioned atmosphere.

Where is Staten Island located in New York?

Located in southwestern New York City, Staten Island is surrounded by the waters of New York Harbor, the Arthur Kill and Raritan Bay. It is not directly adjacent to other parts of the city, giving it a unique character.

How to get to Staten Island?

The easiest way to reach Staten Island is to take the Staten Island Ferry, which is free and departs from Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan. There are also buses and trains on the island, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge connects Staten Island to Brooklyn.

The Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is an important part of New York’s public transportation system and is used by thousands of travelers every day. For tourists, it is a great opportunity to enjoy free views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The crossing takes about 25 minutes and offers a relaxing way to view the city from the water.

Is Staten Island worth a visit?

Staten Island is often overlooked by tourists, but it certainly has its charm. If you like nature, history and tranquility, a day trip to Staten Island is definitely worthwhile. It is a nice change from the busy streets of Manhattan and gives a different view of New York City.

Our 5 tips for visiting Staten Island

1. Take the Staten Island Ferry for stunning views of Manhattan.

2. Visit Snug Harbor for a mix of culture and nature.

3. Store at Empire Outlets for good deals.

4. Take a walk in Clove Lakes Park or the Staten Island Greenbelt.

5. Try the pizza at Denino’s – a local favorite.

Whether you love nature, culture or fine dining, Staten Island has something for everyone. Plan your visit and discover this hidden gem of New York City!

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