Although many people think of Staten Island as the “Forgotten Borough” we love it all the same, and in this guide we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in the area! Worth the mighty journey across the New York Harbor, there’s plenty of parks and museums worth a visit…or even a little day trip! Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Staten Island, NYC right now!
1. Staten Island Ferry
Our first recommendation of things to do in Staten Island is getting there in the first place via the Staten Island Ferry! Hop aboard this free transportation and make your way over to the borough from Manhattan…passing stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island along the way of course! Boats typically make the trip in about 25 minutes, and you can even purchase food and booze during your ride.
2. Historic Richmond Town
Take a step back in time and explore Historic Richmond Town, a colonial-era style village where many buildings and artifacts still live on today! With over 100,000 artifacts and archives, this museum and living history village is meant to educate and inspire visitors about the diverse peoples and cultures of Staten Island’s past! They also host plenty of walking tours, workshops, and live music concerts! See what’s on in Historic Richmond Town here.
3. Staten Island Zoo
One of our favorites zoos is in Staten Island, and it has nearly doubled in size over the past few years. The Staten Island Zoo features over 350 species of animals from 6 continents and welcomes over 200,000 visitors a year! With huge exhibits like the Amur Leopard Habitat, The Sahara Exhibit, and many more…it’s the perfect place to bring your kids if you’re in Staten Island. Learn more about the Staten Island Zoo here.
Where: 614 Broadway, Staten Island
4. St. George Theatre
St. George Theatre is a historic venue in Staten Island that hosts a wide ranging variety of performances. From Broadway shows to live concerts, this beautifully renovated theater that has roots since the 1920s is perfect for a night out in Staten Island. Learn more about St. George Theatre and see their upcoming schedule here.
Where: 35 Hyatt St, Staten Island
5. Alice Austen House
One of America’s first prolific female photographers, Alice Austen, is the subject of this house museum in Staten Island. Most known for her groundbreaking documentary-style photography, the Alice Austen House displays both her works and her inspiring dwelling that inspired her to leave the legacy she did! Learn more about the Alice Austen House here.
Where: 2 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island
6. Fort Wadsworth
Fort Wadsworth is a former military base on Staten Island that is one of the oldest in the entire nation! The 226 military installation is perfect to go hiking or biking around, and it offers panoramic views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and NYC. Its visitor center is open Monday – Friday from 10 am – 4 pm.
7. Staten Island Children’s Museum
If you’re looking for the best kids activity to do in Staten Island, stop by the Staten Island Children’s Museum for a day of fun and play. It’s located inside the Snug Harbor Cultural Center, and it’s home to many exhibits themed around transportation, animals, and culture. The museum’s goal is to spark children’s creativity and curiosity, and does it masterfully through science experiments, arts and crafts, and so much more. See what’s on at Staten Island Children’s Museum here.
Where: 1000 Richmond Ter. Bldg M, Staten Island
8. Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden
Situated right on the water in Staten Island, Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden is a complex of buildings and attractions that “offers dynamic programming in arts, education, horticulture, agriculture, and recreation.” Features of this stunning cultural complex include 14 botanical gardens (including the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden and Richmond County Savings Foundation Tuscan Garden), a two acre urban farm, a regional arts center, NYC’s oldest music venue, and so much more. Learn more about Snug Harbor here.
Where: 1000 Richmond Ter, Staten Island
9. National Lighthouse Museum
Staten Island’s National Lighthouse Museum is a dedication to the history of lighthouses and their keepers! It’s located on the North Shore of the borough on the grounds of the former US Lighthouse Service “Super” Depot. Visitors are invited to learn more about lighthouses and check other other cool historical buildings on the premises. Learn more about the National Lighthouse Museum here.
Where: 200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point, Staten Island
10. Flagship Brewing Company
After all that exploring of Staten Island, stop and grab a pint of beer at our favorite brewery in the area! Flagship Brewing Company is Secret NYC-approved, and it’s thanks to their large and welcoming taproom and in-house produced hops. Check out all of Flagship Brewing Company’s beers here.
Where: 40 Minthorne St, Staten Island