Alexa Gordon

Alexa Gordon – first trip to the USA in 2011 I first arrived in the USA after years of dreaming about this country, planning to spend just one month there. That month changed my life. The diversity of landscapes, the dynamism of cities, and the openness of people made me come back again and again. For the past 14 years, I have explored the USA from coast to coast – from New York skyscrapers to California beaches, from the Great Lakes to Arizona canyons. I've traveled by car along legendary highways, crossed states by train, and explored national parks on foot. The USA is a country of contrasts, where each state has its unique character. Here, bustling metropolises coexist with quiet provincial towns, technology hubs and untouched nature, historical landmarks and modern entertainment. I help travelers discover the real America beyond tourist clichés, tailoring routes to specific interests. Over the years, I have developed more than 400 individual journeys and conducted hundreds of tours across different parts of the country. Let me create the perfect USA itinerary for you, taking into account your interests, pace, and preferences.

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Staten Island

Staten Island, the greenest borough of New York City, is a unique destination that offers a combination of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. With its wildlife refuges, botanical gardens, parks, and beautiful beaches, Staten Island provides visitors with a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This guide will help you plan your visit by highlighting the best attractions, dining options, accommodations, and transportation tips.

Table of Contents

Getting There and Around

The Staten Island Ferry is the most budget-friendly and scenic way to reach Staten Island. This free service operates 24/7 and provides stunning views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The ferry ride takes approximately 25 minutes, departing from Manhattan’s Whitehall Terminal and arriving at the St. George Terminal on Staten Island.

Top Attractions

St. George

Upon arrival at the St. George Terminal, visitors are greeted by several nearby attractions:

September 11 Memorial: Located at the St. George Esplanade, this memorial honors the Staten Island victims of the 9/11 attacks with a striking wing-like structure designed by architect Masayuki Sono.
National Lighthouse Museum: Situated at 200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of American lighthouses. It features over 180 lighthouse models and a comprehensive timeline of lighthouse history.
Fort Wadsworth: Just a short bus ride away, this historic military fort offers catacomb-like tunnels, breathtaking views of the harbor and the Verrazzano Bridge, and a unique landscaping crew of grazing goats in the summer and early fall.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

Located at 1000 Richmond Terrace, this cultural hub encompasses museums, historic buildings, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The Chinese Scholar’s Garden within Snug Harbor replicates the serene ambiance of Ming Dynasty-era China with its bamboo-lined paths, waterfalls, and koi pond.

Alice Austen House

At 2 Hylan Blvd, this charming Victorian cottage showcases the documentary photography of Alice Austen. It provides a glimpse into New York City life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Dining and Nightlife

Pier 76: For a classic New York pizza experience, visit Pier 76 at 76 Bay St. Known for its crispy, thin-crust pizza, this restaurant also offers a variety of casual dining options such as buffalo wings and pasta primavera.
Lakruwana: Located just a block away from MakerSpace NYC, this Sri Lankan restaurant stands out with its aromatic dishes like lamprais (rice and curry baked in a banana leaf) and godamba roti (folded flatbread with curry). The weekend buffet is a must-try.
Flagship Brewery: After a day of exploring, unwind with a pint at Flagship Brewing Company, which offers a variety of locally beloved brews, including the popular blood orange IPA. Brewery tours and tastings are available on Saturdays.

Where to Stay

Staten Island has various accommodation options to meet different preferences and budgets:

Hilton Garden Inn New York/Staten Island: A comfortable choice with modern amenities and easy access to major attractions.
Hampton Inn & Suites Staten Island: Known for its friendly service and convenient location, this hotel provides a complimentary shuttle to the Staten Island Ferry terminal.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Staten Island has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit is during the mild spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall.

Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring St. George and Surroundings

Morning: Start your day with a ferry ride from Manhattan to St. George. Visit the September 11 Memorial and the National Lighthouse Museum.
Afternoon: Take a short bus ride to Fort Wadsworth for a historical tour. Head back to St. George for lunch at Pier 76.
Evening: Explore the St. George Theatre for an evening performance or movie screening.

Day 2: Cultural and Natural Wonders

Morning: Visit the Alice Austen House for a historical and artistic experience. Enjoy beautiful views of Manhattan and Brooklyn from the house.
Afternoon: Spend time at the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, exploring the Chinese Scholar’s Garden and other attractions. Have lunch at one of the nearby eateries.
Evening: Head to Flagship Brewery for a relaxing evening with local brews. For dinner, visit Lakruwana and enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

Tips for Tourists

Public Transportation: Utilize the MTA subway and bus services for convenient travel around Staten Island.
Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes as many attractions involve walking.
Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season.
Local Etiquette: Respect the local customs and be courteous to the residents.

Staten Island is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to New York City’s greenest borough.