Nestled in New York Harbor, Governors Island makes for the perfect “escape” from NYC, offering 172 acres of rich history and natural beauty to explore just an eight minute ferry ride from Manhattan. And this summer Governors Island’s beloved Collective Retreats glamping experience is returning for its eighth season–and, as usual, they’re sprucing things up compared to years past!
The Trust for Governors Island first partnered with Collective Retreats back in 2018, offering visitors a glamping experience like none other–sleeping on the waterfront under the stars with gorgeous views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. Upon opening, the experience was able to house 100 guests over six acres along with live music, dining, and various activities, though each year seems to offer even more incredible amenities than before.
This year, the experience will offer renewed culinary offerings, refreshed recreational experiences, and curated summer programming.
The retreat’s food and beverage experience is anchored by Three Peaks Lodge, offering farm-to-island dining daily beginning at 5 pm. Guests will begin each day with a complimentary continental breakfast featuring light bites, juices, and coffee, and by 3 pm can grab craft cocktails, beer, and wine at the Sunset Terrace cocktail bar (along with one of the most spectacular sunset backdrops!).
Visitors can choose from 29 immersive glamping-style accommodations in three thoughtfully designed room types:
- Journey Tents – plush beds and access to shared spa-style bathhouses, ideal for families and small groups
- Voyager Tents – added privacy with en-suite bathrooms, featuring elevated design and amenities for a more immersive stay
- Basecamp Cabins – blend indoor comforts with nature featuring soaking tubs, handheld showers, and a cozy atmosphere
For a more indulgent experience, there’s also the multiple suites, such as the Summit Suite, that feature expansive layouts, spa-style bathrooms, and folding glass walls that open to panoramic views.
As for seasonal amenities, guests are invited to take part in daily recreational programming–from morning yoga and lawn games to live music and nightly s’mores around the fire, with additional seasonal activations being introduced throughout the summer. And at the heart of the retreat sits the expansive Great Lawn, a central gathering place with hammocks and lawn games including bocce, croquet, cornhole, oversized Jenga, giant Connect Four, paddleball, social pong, and more.
And, just beyond the retreat, glampers can connect with the island’s rich history and natural beauty even further by exploring Governors Island’s expansive biking and hiking trails, lavender fields, hammock groves, public art installations, and historic landmarks including Fort Jay and Castle Williams. Plus, guests will receive preferred guest rates at QC NY Spa, which features outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and massage treatments.
A press release writes:
Blending the serenity of nature with the energy of the city, Collective Retreats Governors Island is an urban escape just across the water, offering indoor/outdoor accommodations, a full-service restaurant and bar, communal firepits, and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. [The retreat] offers a mindful sanctuary more often associated with upstate escapes like the Catskills or Poconos—yet it’s just minutes from Manhattan.
For more information and to reserve your space, head to Collective Retreats Governors Island’s website. The retreat is open seasonally from May to October.