We’ve always thought that Governors Island was the perfect escape from NYC (within NYC) — just see evidence here, here and here — but now it won’t only be limited to a summer staycation destination.
Governors Island just announced that for the first time ever, the 172-acre island in New York Harbor will be open year-round to New Yorkers starting Nov. 1, 2021! Typically, its season would last May-October. But starting this year, it won’t be closing at all.
Just imagine the sledding opportunities…
@NYCMayor & The Trust for Governors Island just announced that @Gov_Island is now open to the public all year long! NYers & visitors can now enjoy the Island’s open space, cultural programming and public art and recreational resources year-round, for the first time in history. pic.twitter.com/vFXtP4DAOQ
— Governors Island (@Gov_Island) September 28, 2021
Of course, as the island is only accessible by ferry, this mean NYC Ferry service will expand to seven days a week, all year long to Governors Island. This includes the typical Pier 11/Wall Street summer shuttle, plus additional service on the South Brooklyn Route on weekdays and non-summer weekends. Ferry ticket there must still be booked in advance, but return trips can be purchased in the moment.
NYCF Expansion Update🎉 : Mayor de Blasio, the Trust for Governors Island, and NYCEDC announced today that #NYCFerry will launch service to Governors Island year-round in tandem with the launch of the Coney Island route later this year. For info & updates: https://t.co/CT5riDMQzC pic.twitter.com/ljkBcDALI4
— NYC Ferry (@NYCferry) September 28, 2021
New Yorkers will be able to enjoy all the open space, cultural and recreational resources the island has to offer — from public art installations to both down-home food trucks and elevated restaurants to historic monuments — and we can’t wait to see what programming and activities they bring in for the cold winter months. Maybe the ice skating rink will make a return?!
Currently, the island is open 10 a.m. -6 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., and 10 a.m. -7 p.m. Fri.-Sun.