Discover Fun Things To Do In Staten Island This Weekend
Staten Island, a place often seen as just a ferry ride away from Manhattan's busy streets, actually holds a whole lot of great experiences, activities, and happenings. It's a spot that, in a way, feels a bit removed from the constant rush of the city, yet it truly offers so much enjoyment. If you're wondering about things to do in Staten Island, you're in for a treat, because this borough packs plenty of appeal for just about anyone looking for a good time.
Whether you've lived here for ages, just moved in, or are simply passing through for a short visit, we've got a lot of wonderful suggestions and ideas for you. You can, for instance, find specific places to visit based on where you are on the island, which is pretty handy. We're here to help you uncover what makes this part of New York so special, so you can really get a feel for the place.
So, if you're looking for things to do in Staten Island, New York, especially as we head into May 2024, get ready to fill your Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with memorable moments. From quiet spots to lively areas, there’s, like, a surprising amount to see and do. We'll show you some of the best ways to explore, making sure your time here is packed with good stuff.
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Table of Contents
- Iconic Sights and Views
- History and Heritage Spots
- Fun for Families and Kids
- Arts, Culture, and Local Gems
- Planning Your Staten Island Weekend
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Iconic Sights and Views
When you consider things to do in Staten Island, some places just come to mind first. These spots offer amazing views and are pretty much a must-see for anyone visiting or exploring the island. They provide a great starting point for your adventures, really.
The Staten Island Ferry: A Free Ride with a View
The Staten Island Ferry is, honestly, one of the best free rides you can take in New York City. It offers, like, incredible views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. This trip, which takes about 25 minutes each way, is perfect for getting some fresh air and snapping some really nice pictures.
You can just walk right on board from the Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan or the St. George Terminal on Staten Island. There’s no charge, which is pretty cool, and it runs 24/7. It’s a very popular choice for both people who live here and those just visiting, because it's such an easy way to see some famous landmarks. You might even, in a way, spot some boats passing by in the harbor.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden: A Green Escape
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is, quite simply, a truly special place. It’s a huge area with beautiful gardens, museums, and performance spaces. The site used to be a home for retired sailors, and now it's, like, a vibrant hub for culture and nature.
You can spend hours walking through the various themed gardens, which include the very peaceful Chinese Scholar Garden, a lovely rose garden, and a unique Tuscan garden. There are also, you know, art exhibits and events happening pretty often. It’s a wonderful spot to relax, enjoy some quiet time, or learn a bit about art and plants. This place really shows off a different side of the island, a bit more serene.
History and Heritage Spots
Staten Island has, in fact, a rich past, and there are some truly interesting places where you can learn all about it. These spots let you step back in time and see what life was like in earlier days. They are, you know, pretty cool for history buffs or anyone curious about how things used to be.
Historic Richmond Town: A Glimpse into the Past
Historic Richmond Town is, basically, a living history village that shows what rural life was like in America from the 17th to the 19th centuries. It has, like, more than 30 historic buildings, including homes, shops, and public buildings, that have been moved here from all over Staten Island.
You can walk around and see costumed interpreters doing daily tasks, which is pretty neat. They might be, for example, blacksmithing, cooking, or doing chores just like people did hundreds of years ago. It’s a really immersive experience, and you get a very good sense of the island's long history. This place is, in some respects, a true step back in time.
The Chinese Scholar Garden: A Place of Calm
Located within Snug Harbor, the Chinese Scholar Garden is, actually, a standout feature. It’s one of only two authentic classical Chinese gardens built in the United States, and it was created by 40 artisans from Suzhou, China. It’s a truly peaceful spot, designed to be a place for reflection.
The garden has, you know, rocks that look like mountains, water features, bamboo, and beautiful plants. Every element is carefully placed to create a harmonious scene. It’s a quiet contrast to the busy city, a little slice of tranquility that's perfect for a moment of calm. You can just, like, sit and enjoy the quiet beauty here.
Fun for Families and Kids
If you're looking for things to do in Staten Island with the younger crowd, you'll find plenty of options. The island has, you know, places that are perfect for little ones to explore, learn, and just burn off some energy. There are, for instance, many spots that cater specifically to families.
Staten Island Children's Museum: Hands-On Learning
The Staten Island Children's Museum, also at Snug Harbor, is a fantastic spot for kids to learn through play. It has, like, interactive exhibits that encourage curiosity and creativity. Children can, for example, explore different cultures, try out various roles, and engage with science in a fun way.
It’s a place where kids can touch, build, and imagine. The exhibits are designed to be very hands-on, making learning an enjoyable adventure. It's a great option for a rainy day or when you just need a place where kids can be kids and have a good time. Parents, too, will appreciate the focus on discovery.
Staten Island Greenbelt: Outdoor Adventures
For families who love being outdoors, the Staten Island Greenbelt is, honestly, an amazing resource. It’s a large network of parks, natural areas, and trails that cover a significant portion of the island. You can, for instance, go hiking, bird watching, or just enjoy a walk in nature.
There are different types of trails, some easy for little legs and some a bit more challenging. It’s a wonderful place to connect with nature without leaving the city. You might, you know, spot some local wildlife or simply enjoy the fresh air. It's a pretty big natural space, offering lots of ways to be active.
Free or Inexpensive Things to Do with Kids
As a matter of fact, Staten Island has a really good list of free or inexpensive things to do with kids, which is pretty helpful for families. Beyond the free ferry ride and parts of the Greenbelt, there are often community events, local parks with playgrounds, and sometimes even free outdoor movie nights or concerts during warmer months.
Checking local community calendars or the borough's official tourism site can often reveal these kinds of opportunities. Many parks, for example, have splash pads in the summer, which are free and a huge hit with children. You can often find, like, a local library story time or a free workshop too. It's about looking around a bit, and you'll find plenty that won't cost much at all.
Arts, Culture, and Local Gems
Beyond the well-known spots, Staten Island has a vibrant cultural side and some really cool local places that are worth checking out. These spots offer a different flavor of the island experience, letting you see its creative spirit and unique character. There’s, you know, quite a bit to explore if you look a little closer.
St. George Theatre: A Historic Venue
The St. George Theatre is, quite simply, a beautiful, historic performing arts venue near the ferry terminal. It opened in 1929 and has, like, stunning architecture inside. Today, it hosts a variety of shows, including concerts, comedy acts, and Broadway productions.
Checking their schedule before your visit is a good idea if you want to catch a performance. Even if you don't see a show, just admiring the building from the outside gives you a sense of its grand past. It’s a really important part of the island's cultural life, bringing in some big names. You can, in fact, feel the history as soon as you step inside.
Empire Outlets: Shopping by the Water
Right next to the St. George Ferry Terminal, Empire Outlets offers, like, an open-air shopping experience with views of the harbor. It's New York City's only outlet mall, so you can find some good deals on various brands. It’s a convenient spot to do some shopping after getting off the ferry, or before you head back.
Besides the stores, there are also places to eat and grab a coffee, so you can make a whole afternoon of it. It’s a pretty modern addition to the St. George area, providing a different kind of activity for visitors and locals. You can, you know, just browse or look for something specific.
Local Eateries and Coffee Shops: Taste the Island
Staten Island has, honestly, a really diverse food scene, from classic Italian places to new, interesting eateries and cozy coffee shops. Exploring the local food is a great way to experience the island's character. You can find, for example, family-run restaurants that have been around for generations.
Areas like St. George, Tompkinsville, and New Dorp have a good concentration of places to eat. Don't be afraid to try a local spot for a quick bite or a full meal. You might, like, discover your new favorite dish. Checking out local reviews on sites like TripAdvisor can give you a good idea of popular spots, with many traveler reviews and photos of Staten Island tourist attractions to guide you. Learn more about local dining on our site.
Planning Your Staten Island Weekend
To really make the most of your time, especially if you're planning things to do in Staten Island this weekend, a little preparation goes a long way. The island is pretty big, so knowing how to get around and where to find events can help a lot. You want to, you know, make your Friday, Saturday, and Sunday full of good stuff.
Getting Around the Island
While the Staten Island Ferry brings you to the St. George area, getting to other parts of the island often means using public transport or a car. The Staten Island Railway runs along the eastern shore, and buses cover many routes across the island. You can, for instance, explore by location, picking areas that are easy to reach.
Using a ride-sharing service or a taxi is also an option, especially if you're heading to a specific spot further inland. If you're driving, be aware of parking, particularly in popular areas. Knowing your transportation options can, in a way, make your day much smoother.
Finding Events and Activities
Staten Island is, as a matter of fact, a city full of experiences, activities, and events. To find out what’s happening during your visit, especially for the weekend, checking local event listings is a smart move. Websites for the borough president's office, local cultural institutions, or community newspapers often have calendars of upcoming happenings.
You might find, for example, farmers markets, art festivals, live music, or special exhibits. These events really add to the island's charm and give you a chance to experience its local spirit. You can, like your, explore by location or by the type of event you're looking for, making it easy to plan your day. Check out this page for more local event listings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Staten Island worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Staten Island, though a harbor removed from Manhattan's busy energy, actually packs more than enough fun for a great visit. It offers a distinct mix of history, green spaces, cultural spots, and family-friendly activities, often with amazing views and at a lower cost than other boroughs. It’s, like, a really nice change of pace and definitely has its own charm.
What is Staten Island known for?
Staten Island is, in some respects, most widely known for the free Staten Island Ferry, which provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Beyond that, it's recognized for Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, Historic Richmond Town, and its significant amount of green space, like the Staten Island Greenbelt. It also has, you know, a strong sense of community and a rich history.
How much time do you need in Staten Island?
You could, for instance, spend anywhere from a few hours to a full weekend exploring Staten Island, depending on your interests. A quick ferry ride and a visit to Empire Outlets or the St. George Theatre might take half a day. If you want to see Snug Harbor and Historic Richmond Town, you could easily fill a whole day. To truly experience the island's diverse offerings, including its parks and local eateries, planning a full weekend would be, like, pretty ideal.
Things To Do in Staten Island | The Ultimate 2020 Guide
Things To Do in Staten Island | The Ultimate 2020 Guide
Things To Do in Staten Island | The Ultimate 2020 Guide
