Governors Island NYC is a great destination to be in during the summer. There are activities for all age groups and even the well-known Governor’s Ball. If the weather is nice in New York City and you want to escape the noise of the New York City atmosphere, then head down to Governors Island NYC. 

This year, the Governors Island Ferry will take you across the East River from July with the Governors Island Ferry until the end of September. The great thing about Governors Island ist that it does not feel like New York City at all, which is probably one of the reasons why many locals come here. A lot of tourists really don’t know much about this island.

UPDATE 2021: Governors island will be open all year round!

How do you get to Governors Island?

The Governors Island Ferry Terminal is located right next to the South Ferry Terminal, which is home to the Staten Island Ferry. The trip takes about 3 minutes and you will see that this is mainly used by the locals, children, older residents of New York, and only a small amount of tourists. You can now also take the ferry from Red Hook’s Atlantic Basin. During last year’s season ferries would run from Brooklyn Bridge Park.

There will be limited capacity on the island and on all ferries running to Governors Island. This will be done through a new ticket reservation system that you can find here. Make sure to get your ticket in advance before heading to the terminal. And yes, all visitors will be required to wear face coverings while being on the ferry, or when social distancing is not possible.

Tickets will be available beginning Friday 7/10 at 10 AM. See more info here. Visitors must depart the Island on their assigned return ferry time selected when purchasing tickets.