Green & Serene: Discover Governor’s Island
September 23, 2009 by admin
Filed under Featured, Green & Serene
With summer behind and weekends in the Hampton’s long gone, it’s time to discover all the beauty and serenity that exists right here in New York City. I had been meaning to visit Governor’s Island for some time, but it was not until I was riding my bike down the East River path a week or so back, and caught sight of the FREE ferry loading up, that I hurried to ride aboard and take the the opportunity to explore the quiet little gem that is just a short boat ride away from our bustling city.
Governor’s Island is the perfect place to bike, walk, or just grab a blanket and enjoy sitting and relaxing on one of the many green spaces. It is 172 acres of land and has over 5 miles of car-free biking, the majority of which takes you along the water and gives riders spectacular views of lower manhattan, the statue of liberty, and more! There is even a new Water Taxi Beach, complete with sand volleyball courts and plenty of fun in the sun await those looking to hold onto summer.
If history is your thing, the island’s castle which was once used as a jail during the War of 1812 is open for exploration, and guided tours of the island’s armory will also keep you occupied. Throughout Governor’s Island there are also remnants of the twentieth century soldiers and their families who lived full-time on the island during the 1960s. It was in 1966 that the island was turned into a US coast guard base, and the sailors’ houses that remain today (as well as a museum) still reflect island life during this time. For me, it was really was fascinating to see the remnants of different centuries of NY history all within walking distance of each other.
While Governor’s Island is not inhabited these days, it is a great place to visit. However, you will have to do it soon! The island is only open for visitors seasonably, and there are only a few weekends left to take advantage. For more information about getting to Governor’s Island and all that awaits you there head to http://www.govisland.com/.
By Vanessa Alfano
Pictures: Flickr.com
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