Staten Island:
More than a Suburb!
Staten Island is sadly known by many of its residents as the “forgotten borough.” This can largely be attributed to its isolation from tourist-friendly Manhattan. Although it is most suburban of NYC, Staten Island has a lot to offer as far as tourism, parks, and wildlife go. 5 attractions are spotlighted here; however there’s much more to explore in Staten Island.
The Staten Island Ferry
Provides transportation from Whitehall Street in Lower Manhattan to St. George on Staten Island. Although the ferry is utilized by nearly 60,000 New Yorkers commuting to work each day, there are plenty that ride simply for the fun of it. The 25 minute trip offers spectacular view of that distinctive New York City skyline completely free of charge (a perk you won’t find with any other cruise line)! On any given day, five vessels make a combined total of about 109 trips across the Upper New York Bay.
Sailors’ Snug Harbor
Founded in 1801, Snug Harbor was originally intended to house retired merchant seamen. The community’s population increased to about 1,000 by the end of the century but had drastically decreased by the 1960s. Thus began public initiatives to preserve the grounds and the architecture that existed there. In 1976, the 83 acres were reopened to the public as a National Historic landmark and city park. Many New Yorkers now enjoy the Botanical Gardens, Music Hall, and Children’s Museum that can be found there.
The Staten Island Yankees
The minor league baseball team, also known as the “Baby Bombers” play in the Richmond County Bank Ballpark located along the St. George waterfront, not far from the ferry terminal. The team moved in 1999, an initiative brokered by Mayor Giuliani. The last home game of the year takes place on September 3 versus the Brooklyn cyclones.
High Rock Park
Often referred to as one of the most tranquil places in New York City, it is noted for its quiet ponds and deep woods. Hosting the Greenbelt Conservancy’s headquarters, the park has been recognized as a Natural Environmentally Education Landmark.
The Staten Island Zoo
Considered the first U.S. “educational zoo,” it opened in 1936. 75 years later, the menagerie boasts a collection of 4438 animals of 206 different species including “Staten Island Chuck,” the official Groundhog’s Day forecaster of New York.
