Things To Do Near Governors Island National Monument
Walk around the outside of Castle Williams, which soldiers erected between 1806 and 1811. Then, from this location on the western part of the island, head to the north to see the earthworks at Fort Jay, which soldiers built in 1775. Study the different trees and plants as you stroll around this island.
Hiking Trails
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Ice Caves and Verkeerderkill Falls Trail
Start this trail at Sam’s Point Preserve. Walk through a rare dwarf pitch pine barren on your way to see the ice caves hollowed out in giant boulders. Then, continue to see Verkeerderkill Falls. This hike ends in Minnewaska State Park.
Location
Sam’s Point Preserve, 400 Sam's Point Road, Cragsmoor, New York, 12420
Length
8.3 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Bull Hill Full Loop
This hike starts at Little Stony Point, just north of Cold Spring. Follow the trail from the parking lot to the old rock quarry. Enjoy stunning views of the New York City skyline as you climb the hill. Detour a little to see the old Cornish farmstead before hiking back to the starting point.
Location
Little Stony Point, 3007 Bear Mountain-Beacon Highway, Cold Spring, New York 10516
Length
5.4 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Central Park Loch Trail
Start this Central Park trail on the pool’s east side. Go under the Glen Span Arch and follow the route to the Loch stream. Follow the trail to the north, and always keep the stream on your right. Keep following the path through the Huddlestone Arch to reach the North Woods. Then, finish your hike by visiting the Blockhouse.
Location
Central Park Pool, 110th Street & Lenox Avenue, New York, New York 10029
Length
3.5 miles
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral
The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in New York, being built in 1809. In 1879, it became a parish church until the pope made it a basilica in 2010. Take the candlelight after-hours tour to see the catacomb, which is the only one in New York and one of a very few in the United States.
Location
263 Mulberry Street, New York, New York 10012
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African Burial National Monument
The African Burial National Monument is the burial spot for about 15,000 enslaved and free Africans. It is the oldest African cemetery in the United States. It is also the starting point for a two-hour history tour of the Freedom Trail.
Location
290 Broadway, New York, New York 10007
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John Browne House
Tour the John Browne House, which Browne built in 1661. It is one of the oldest houses in New York City. Over 5,000 objects, including English and American furniture and decorative art, paintings, textiles, costumes, household artifacts, books, manuscripts, and toys fill the home.
Location
37-01 Bowne St, Flushing, New York 11354
Museums
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The Skyscraper Museum
See models of skyscrapers from around the world at The Skyscraper Museum. Learn about the inventions and materials that make them work. This is also a fantastic place to learn about the architects who build these tall towers.
Location
39 Battery Place, New York, New York 10280
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Museum of the American Gangster
The two-room Museum of the American Gangster explores the history of American gangsters through historical artifacts. Learn the stories of these people and events in this space that used to be a speakeasy.
Location
80 St. Mark's Place, New York, New York 10003
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co.
If you need to stock up on your superhero gear and supplies, then shop at Brooklyn Superhero Supply, where you will find gifts, costumes, party supplies, and posters. All profits from this store support a children’s tutoring and publishing company.
Location
372 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11215
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Iggie’s Curiosity Shoppe
Find unusual vintage and antique items at Iggie’s Curiosity Shoppe. This is a fantastic place to shop for unique items that you simply cannot live without. The merchandise is constantly changing, so make this a stop each time you visit the city.
Location
11 Patterson Ave., Midland Park, New Jersey 07432
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The Black Ant
Step into The Black Ant and experience eating insects from around the world used as a seasoning in your favorite Mexican entrees. There are grasshopper tacos and crushed-ant guacamole. If the thought of eating insects leaves you squeamish, try their rabbit enchiladas. They also have outstanding cocktails.
Location
60 Second Ave., New York, New York, 10003
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S’MAC
Try unusual types of macaroni and cheese at S’MAC. They offer gluten-free and vegan options and they cook delicious small batches throughout the day.
Location
197 First Ave., New York, New York 10003