Ferry Good News: Governors Island Is Now Open Year Round

One of New York City’s finest summer offerings is becoming a year-round destination. Governors Island recently announced that it will be open year-round for the first time ever starting November 1. 

The 172-acre island, which is only accessible by boat and normally shuts to visitors in the fall, is also getting additional ferry service: the NYC Ferry will have a permanent stop on the island, bringing visitors from Lower Manhattan’s Pier 11/Wall Street stop via the South Brooklyn route. The regular Governors Island ferry will continue to operate daily out of The Battery Maritime Building (10 South Street) as well. 

Mayor de Blasio said that opening the island — an urban oasis filled with old military buildings, art centers, playgrounds, hammocks and the tallest slide in New York City — year round grew out of New Yorkers’ need for more public space to enjoy during the pandemic. 

The island’s climbable hills, 360-degree views and car-free streets are attractions in their own right, but exhibits and programs are scheduled through the end of the month, including a pumpkin patch and an exhibit featuring art from incarcerated people. The island will eventually be home to a new Center for Climate Solutions, which de Blasio has said will become the global leader for fighting climate change.

Find out more about Governors Island and its expanded schedule here.