Things to do in Staten Island include a number of New York City’s noteworthy attractions. The Staten Island attractions may not be as numerous as the things to do in Queens or things to do in Manhattan, but there are plenty of places worth visiting, including the Staten Island Zoo, South Beach and Boardwalk, and the Staten Island Greenbelt.

Staten Island Ferry

Arriving on Staten Island can be done in a number of ways, including car and bus over one of two bridges; however, the most exciting method of arrival is, of course, by the ferry, which is the first of the Staten Island attractions. The Staten Island ferry is completely free and runs between Battery Park Manhattan on the mainland and the St. George Terminal on the island 24 hours a day.

Staten Island Zoo

Established in 1936, the zoo is one of the fun things to do in Staten Island that was initially devoted to an educational enterprise and continues an ongoing effort to enhance the wildlife education of all visitors. This is also one of the best Staten Island activities for children and families, featuring dozens of exhibitions and educational programs that are still entertaining.

Historic Richmond Town

A living historical village museum, Historic Richmond Town was an effort to preserve the rich history of the island. Exhibits include restored structures and displayed living arrangements that were common in eighteenth-century Staten Island. Among the many things to do on Staten Island, this is a unique experience that will teach visitors about the island’s enchanting historical heritage.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden

Dedicated to the arts and horticulture, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden is modeled after the Smithsonian Institute ideals, endeavoring an attempt to create an environment that promotes artistic quality and the preservation of the local heritage, all the while becoming a main attraction to enhance the effort. This is one of the best Staten Island activities for the beautiful days in the spring, summer, and fall when you just want to spend time outdoors and revel in the beautiful flowers.

Gateway National Recreation Area

The Gateway National Recreation Area stretches into a number of areas of New York City and is one of the park settings that are included on many travelers’ list of things to do in Staten Island. The unit of this urban park can be found in three areas of Staten Island, Ft. Wadsworth, Miller Field, and Great Kills, dispersed at several coastal regions of the island.

Greenbelt

The Greenbelt is among the free Staten Island attractions, open to the public throughout the year at varied times and offering a variety of activities and programs for all ages. Within the Greenbelt, visitors will find a variety of outdoor things to do in Staten Island, from camps to hiking and activity trails to an assortment of natural wonders, such as Ice Age glacial lakes.

The many Staten Island activities and sightseeing opportunities provide visitors with a pleasant and memorable experience in a part of New York City that many tourists often miss. This might be the most suburban of the city’s boroughs, but it’s far from bland.