Top 70+ Things to Do in Staten Island for an Epic NYC Escape

By /

Often overlooked in favor of its flashier neighbors like Manhattan or Brooklyn, Staten Island is a hidden gem in New York City that’s finally getting the attention it deserves. In 2025, this vibrant borough is brimming with scenic nature parks, historic landmarks, waterfront views, and foodie hotspots that offer a more relaxed, authentic slice of NYC life. Whether you’re a local looking to explore your own backyard or a tourist in search of something unique, there are plenty of things to do in Staten Island that will surprise, delight, and inspire you.

Epic Things to Do in Staten Island for the Ultimate NYC Escape

Things to Do in Staten Island

From the free Staten Island Ferry offering jaw-dropping views of the Statue of Liberty, to quiet beach boardwalks, museums, botanical gardens, and family-friendly attractions, the island has something for every kind of traveler. Outdoor lovers will fall for the lush Greenbelt trails and seaside parks, while foodies can dive into the borough’s thriving Italian, Sri Lankan, and farm-to-table food scenes.

🏞️ 1. Explore Nature & Outdoor Escapes

Explore Nature & Outdoor Escapes

  1. Greenbelt Nature Center – 2,800+ acres of trails, forests, and guided hikes.

  2. High Rock Park – Woods, boardwalks, and Little Bay views.

  3. Great Kills Park – Beachside picnics and water recreation.

  4. South Beach Boardwalk – Casual strolls with ocean breezes.

  5. Jake Satterly Park – Wildlife trails and waterfront scenery.

  6. Conference House Park – Revolutionary War-era manor & walking trails.

  7. Clove Lakes Park – Boating, ice skating, and duck feeding.

  8. Freshkills Park – Once landfill, now flourishing urban parkland.

  9. LaTourette Park – Meadows, hills, and quiet escapes.

  10. Richmond Town – Five historic houses and preserved streets.

  11. Historic Richmond Town – Deep dive into 17th–19th century life.

  12. Lord & Taylor Estate – Expansive green lawns and peaceful gardens.

  13. Westerleigh Loop – A charming residential walking route.

  14. Miller Field – Wide-open views of Staten Island Sound.

  15. Pile’s Creek Marsh – Great spot for birdwatching and nature photos.

🎨 2. Culture & History Worth Exploring in Staten Island

Culture & History Worth

  1. Staten Island Museum – Natural science, history, and art.

  2. Historic Richmond Town – With interactive workshops & reenactments.

  3. Alice Austen House – Staten Island’s pioneering female photographer.

  4. Garibaldi-Meucci Museum – Italian American heritage & Rosenet origins.

  5. Conference House – A peace conference site from 1776.

  6. Staten Island Children’s Museum – Drag-and-drop fun for kids.

  7. The Noble Maritime Collection – Authentic nautical artifacts & models.

  8. Prince’s Bay Lighthouse – Historic maritime guide, accessible by boat.

  9. Express Shuttle to Staten Island Cemetery – Garden and cemetery architecture.

  10. City’s LaBella Arte – Monthly art exhibitions & interactive shows.

🚴 3. Ride & Walk Do in Staten Island

Ride & Walk Do in Staten Island

  1. Staten Island Ferry – Free ride with one of the best skyline views.

  2. East Shore Bikeway – Bike from South Beach to Conference House Park.

  3. Ocean Breeze Boardwalk – Smooth pavement, benches, and sea breeze.

  4. Bike Rentals – Available by the waterfront, grab & ride around the east shore.

  5. Ferry Runner Challenge – Participate in annual races around the ferry.

  6. Staten Island Greenbelt Trails – Miles of winding paths through serene forest cover.

🌳 4. Family Favorite Spots to see in Staten Island

  1. Children’s Museum – Blast-off exhibits & creative toddler spaces.

  2. High Rock Park Playground – Slides, swings & leafy shade.

  3. Clove Lakes Carousel – Vintage rides for nostalgic fun.

  4. Staten Island Zoo – Animal encounters and educational programs.

  5. Fresh Kills Model Plane Field – Watch remote-control planes at the park.

  6. Toddler Playground at Elm Park – Play structures and water fountains.

  7. Parkway Little League Fields – Weekday and weekend baseball games.

  8. South Fin Grill & Water Park – Seafood dining with kid zone.

  9. Staten Island Children’s Theater – Interactive shows for younger audiences.

🍽️ 5. What to Eat & Where

Staten Island Famous Landmarks

  1. Denino’s Pizzeria – See-through ovens with legendary thin-crust squares.

  2. Enoteca Maria – Homemade cooking hosted by grandmas from around the world.

  3. Signal 27 – Elevated pub fare with local ingredients.

  4. LuLu’s Bistro – Mediterranean soul food with bright, airy interiors.

  5. Cakeaholics Bakery – Gorgeous cakes & custom creations.

  6. Ferraro’s Bake Shop – Traditional Italian pastries & cannoli.

  7. Trattoria Romana – Classic red-sauce Italian meals.

  8. Salt + Vine – Wine bar and shared plates for romantic evenings.

  9. Staten Island Cheese & Wine – Gourmet boards & wines for cozy nights.

  10. Flagship Brewing Company – Local brews paired with pub nosh.

🎉 6. Nightlife, Music & Events

Nightlife, Music & Events

  1. Lord Stanley’s Taproom – Live music nights and full bar.

  2. Noble Maritime Nights – Summer concerts at the Maritime Collection lawn.

  3. Island Music Fest – Annual jazz, rock, and hip-hop performances.

  4. Staten Island Brewery Events – Trivia, tastings, and taproom tours.

  5. Café Luna – Monthly acoustic nights and waterfront sunset spots.

  6. Boney’s Rockin’ Pool Party – Seasonal DJ pool parties you won’t forget.

🧘 7. Wellness & Relaxation

  1. Ocean Breeze Walking – Evening wind therapy along the shore.

  2. Clove Lakes Boathouse – Paddle rentals in the summer—fun for families.

  3. Yoga at Conference House – Seasonal outdoor mindfulness sessions.

  4. Staten Island Greenbelt Nature Center Programs – Forest therapy and ecology classes.

  5. South Beach Stretch & Fitness Zones – Outdoor workout stations along the boardwalk.

  6. Meditative Trail Walks – Trails at Mount Loretto and Willowbrook parks.

🛍️ 8. Shopping & Souvenir Stops

Popular Destinations near Staten Island

  1. St. George Theatre Pop‑Up Markets – Seasonal artisan fairs.

  2. Tottenville Farmers Market – Fresh produce every Sunday.

  3. Historic Richmond Town Craft Fairs – Arts, crafts, and old-school treats.

  4. Narrows Botanical Gift Shop – Plants, books, and local gifts.

  5. Lighthouse Boutique (Prince’s Bay) – Lighthouse memorabilia + coastal gear.

🏨 9. Overnight & Staycation Ideas

  1. Wyndham Garden Staten Island – Parking, pool, and river-view rooms.

  2. Hilton Garden Inn – Cozy stays with shuttle service to train routes.

  3. Specialty Bed & Breakfasts in Tottenville – Quaint experiences with waterfront charm.

  4. Camping Events – Occasional weekend glamping at Conference House Park.

  5. Staten Island Summer Art Crawl – Outdoor art events around May–June.

  6. Harvest Festival at Historic Richmond Town – Autumn crafts and corn mazes.

  7. Tree Lighting at St. George Staten Island Ferris – Holiday warmth & live music.

  8. Lighthouse Day at Prince’s Bay – Explore the landmark with tours & boats.

  Tips for a Perfect Staten Island Escape

  • 🗺️ Plan ferry rides early – ferries run every 30 minutes, but weekends fill fast.

  • 🕶️ Pack layers – coastal weather can be changeable.

  • 🥪 Bring snacks – parks don’t always have food vendors.

  • 🏞️ Combine experiences – ferry + dinner + concert = perfect day.

  • 🐾 Dog-friendly options – many parks & boardwalks allow furry pals.

In 2025 isn’t just a borough—it’s an eclectic mix of nature escapes, local culture, foodie delights, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re riding the ferry into the Manhattan skyline, hiking through silent woodlands, or noshing on world-class pizza, there’s something epic waiting for you. So plan your escape today—and make Staten Island your next New York adventure! 🙌

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top