Staten Island is a city in New York that is least populated but known as the third largest city in NY. This island came into existence in 1661; 43% of the area is covered by water providing peaceful and calming weather with some fun and adventurous things to do in Staten Island.
The Dutch colonists settled on Staten Island in the 17th century. This place was home to many large mammals and was also abandoned due to their presence as they were a threat to living beings.
After those mammals lost their lives, this area was again occupied by people living in another city in New York; however, according to the 2020 census, its population is 495,747. Staten Island is considered boring, but there are still many hidden treasures.
Staten Island is famous for its beautiful beaches, lakes, historical museums, green parks, and iconic buildings. It is called the borough of parks, as the whole area is covered with green plants and trees, making it a heavenly place in New York.
Summers in Staten Island are short, hot, and warm, while winters are long, cold, and snowy. The best months to visit this sparkly place are June to July and August to September.
The entire year of Staten Island is neither too hot nor too cold. So you can easily plan your days here and pack your clothes considering the months you visit.
1) Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Snug Harbor has a collection of 19th-century Archeological buildings from Staten Island and New York City. These buildings are laid on 83 acres of Park, providing visitors with many artistic things to do in Staten Island.
Some arts organizations use these buildings and parks as botanical gardens and centers.
Snug Harbor is a U. S historical landmark that was built between 1831 to 1833. It was added to NRHP on 16 March 1972. Snug Harbor was established specially for retired sailors.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Have you ever been to a Chinese lantern festival? At Sailors Harbor Center, they organize this function every winter. So if you visit Staten Island during winter, you must enjoy this unique Chinese event.
Sailors Harbor is home to retired sailors; you can even meet those hard-working persons and learn about some sea secrets, stories, and other exciting things from them. Those sailors are very welcoming.
You can even visit the healing gardens, glass house, and secret garden. See their maps, and every interesting place is mentioned in them. Spend only $5 for an irresistible outdoor and indoor amusement.
You can even go on long walks in the beautiful garden of Sailors Harbor as its visiting timings are from Wednesday to Sunday, 12 pm to 7 pm.
Address
Richmond Terrace 1000, Staten Island, 10301 NY, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-425-3504
2) Staten Island Zoo
Staten Island Zoo is an urban zoo of 8 acres that is operational year-round providing visitors with some venturesome things to do in Staten Island.
Staten Island Zoo was opened on 10 June 1936. It has 1400 animals and 320 species adopted from Africa, Reptile Wings, and Tropical forests.
Many animals like rattlesnakes, snakes, spider monkeys, Chinese Alligators, Tawny Frogmouth, Highland Cows, Capybara, Green Anacondas, and Ibex can be seen here. African Savannah is the top attraction of Staten Island Zoo.
What Things Can You Do Here?
It’s time to spend some hours with the Staten Island Zoo animals as they await your patting. It is a great budget-friendly place as parking is free, tickets are cheap, and the gardens are well organized.
So you can spend several hours at this zoo without getting bored and cutting your pockets. It is a great place for kids as they’ll love spending time with those little and big animal creatures.
Staten Island Zoo is an exceptional place one should visit. There are many treasures, from the garden, animals, views, and atmosphere.
You can even feed some animals and check the information boards before feeding them. However, Staten Island Zoo is open for visitors from Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 4.45 pm.
Address
614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY 10310, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-442-3100
3) Staten Island Children’s Museum
Staten Island Children’s Museum is located inside the Sailors Harbor Center. Staten Island Children’s Museum opened in 1976 as an indoor and outdoor exploration of things to do in Staten Island, especially for the kids.
It is hard work for the community and the government of Staten Island. The museum stresses the collection that inspires the children about arts and history.
Staten Island Children’s Museum also has a Praying Mantis sculpture named Francis the Praying Mantis. This museum features two outdoor exhibits along with 100 indoor exhibits.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Reserve your tickets and take your kids to the joyful museum of Staten Island, as there are many activities, exhibits, and artwork for them to explore.
Your kids will love the fire truck; in fact, you’ll also be amazed by the art of the fire truck. So take out some extra time and spend it here at Staten Island Children’s Museum. If you’re visiting this place during winter, you must remember to attend the winter festivals held here.
If you ever look out for a place to take your kids and have some me time, bring them here and let them be busy exploring the arts while you relax in the gardens, as it is also a perfect picnic spot.
You can take your kids to Staten Island Children’s Museum from Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 1 pm.
Address
off, 1000 Richmond Terrace Building M Enter via the Fillmore St. Gate, Tysen St, 10301, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-273-2060
4) High Rock Park
High Rock Park is covered with ponds and woods, featuring different outdoor activities and things to do on Staten Island. It is also known as the Natural Environmental Education Landmark.
The top-preserved Staten Island area provides visitors with a green park, garden, huge rocks, and bird-watching facilities.
High Rock Park is also famous for hiking and trailing. The trails and hikes allow beginners to learn the dos and don’ts of rock climbing, trailing, and hiking.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Hike at High Rock Park and see mane deers running in the garden; it is home to many deers running and walking here and there. But remember not to tease them; always show gratitude towards wild animals.
At High Rock Park, you’ll get a country vibe as it is so beautiful and covered with greenery and small ponds that you’ll love to spend half of your day here and relax unlimitedly.
It is a perfect spot for picnicking, so carry your picnic baskets and a mat. Play some games with your friends to make your trip more enjoyable. Relive your childhood and play the game hide and seek, as the huge rocks can let you hide behind them without getting caught.
High Rock Park is operational daily from 6 am to 1 am. So you can even come here for an early morning walk or exercise.
Address
200 Nevada Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-351-3450
5) National Lighthouse Museum
The National Lighthouse Museum holds the importance and history of New York’s lighthouses and their keepers. It came into existence in 2015, containing a vintage history and historical things to do in Staten Island.
The motive of the National Lighthouse Museum was to educate the people about the importance of these lighthouses, which had been long lost due to modern technologies.
The only mission behind opening the National Lighthouse Museum is to preserve its history and maintain a good relationship with the new generations through a museum.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Hop on a ferry and start your trip at the National Lighthouse Museum; you can see all the replicated structures and lighthouses in England and New York. The guides are very welcoming and humble.
They treat the visitors with love and give them all the information and a museum tour. It is a small museum with wonderful models of lighthouses. The tour is also combined with a ride to the Manhattan of Staten Island.
If you ever look for a less crowded place to spend your day in Staten Island, the National Lighthouse Museum is a top choice. So spend your day away from the horde of Staten Island and have some untroubled moments.
Visitors are welcome at the National Lighthouse Museum from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm.
Address
The Promenade at Lighthouse Point 200, Staten Island, 10301 NY, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-390-0040
6) Seaside Wildlife Nature Park
Seaside Wildlife Nature Park is a community park near Staten Island’s waterfront. It has a cushioned playground, a shark to climb, and some swings and slides accessible for all ages. It is a wheelchair-friendly space with various fun things to do in Staten Island.
Seaside Wildlife Nature Park playground is cushioned, featuring a shark to climb, a lighthouse, replicas of wrecked ships, and many other exciting activities.
This park covers 20 acres of Staten Island, water marsh plants, local trees, wildlife, and shrubs. All the amusements present at Seaside Wildlife Nature Park are wheelchair accessible.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Seaside Wildlife Nature Park allows you, your kids, family, and your friends to enjoy high entertaining time. You can climb a huge shark, explore the pirate ship, or play on the cushioned grounds to avoid falls and bruises.
If you have small kids with you, take them here at Seaside Wildlife Park, see them play freely, and you can have a soothing cappuccino while enjoying the scenic views and nature.
All the equipment present here is also easily accessible by wheelchair users. So what else do you want in a place? It is whole in one package of fun. So waste no more time and visit Seaside Wildlife Nature Park for unlimited happy laughs.
You can even go on early morning walks with your better half for fresh air as this park opens at 6 am and closes at 10 pm.
Address
Nelson Avenue and Tennyson Dr, Staten Island, 10308 NY, United States
Contact Information
+1 212-639-9675
7) Staten Island Boat Graveyard
Staten Island Boat Graveyard is also known as the Accidental Marine Museum. It is also famous for Tugboat Graveyard, Witte Marine Scrap Yard, and Arthur Kill Boat Yard, as it is home to many boats and ships that are no longer working.
This place lists boat exploring things to do in Staten Island. The official name of this graveyard was fixed as Donjon Iron and Metal Scrap Processing Facility in 2014.
This graveyard was founded in 1930 by John J. Witte. He managed this graveyard until he died in 1980.
What Things Can You Do Here?
You must have heard about graveyards where our lost ones sleep peacefully, but have you ever heard about Boat Graveyard? Seems unique to you. Yes, it is! At the boat Graveyard, you can see many abandoned boats that are useless or have lost control.
Here all the rustic boats are resting; you can explore those boats unlimited. It is a picturesque place for photography. So if you’re searching for some old place to capture pictures for your projects, go to Staten Island Boat Graveyard and gather vintage photos.
It is an accidental marine museum; you should visit once to see the huge collection of old migrating ships and boats that were once famous for their services and rides.
There is no specific time limit to visit Staten Island Boat Graveyard, so whenever you pass Arther Kill Rossville, stop here for hours to see the historical boats gathered worldwide.
Address
Arthur Kill Rd, Staten Island, NY, United States
Contact Information
(718) 984-4100
8) Freshkills Park
Freshkills Park is a public park of 2200 acres; it is one of the largest parks in New York, with many attractions and fun things to do in Staten Island. It has been ruling over the city of Staten Island since the 19th Century.
It was renovated in 2008. Freshkills Park features open grasslands, engineered waterways, and structures for public activities, playful objectives, and fun, full learning.
Before it became a park, it was a salt marsh, clay, silts, and sand. Freshkills Park is also home to much wildlife, including northern snapping turtles, Red-winged Blackbirds, and many precious animals.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Gather your friends for a fun day out, as at Freshkills Park; you’ll get a bucket full of exciting adventures. It is a perfect place for a picnic, so spend several hours with your friends. You can even play truth and dare here to learn some of their spicy secrets.
Want to see the unique wildlife of Staten Island? Pack your bags and remember to keep binoculars in your bags to see the wild animals closely. Some are human-friendly, so you can feed or pat them but be extra careful to avoid unwanted situations.
The green grassy lands are a perfect option to lay on while sunbathing; you’ll enjoy the green views and sweet fragrant air or fresh flowers.
This park has been through a recent construction, so you confirm the visiting hours by contacting the number below.
Address
Freshkills Park, Staten Island, NY 10314, United States
Contact Information
+1 212-602-5374
9) Greenbelt Nature Center
Greenland is the second largest park on Staten Island, maintained by the Department of Parks of Staten Island; this park was created in 1984 and has many trails and hiking spots with different outdoor activities and things to do in Staten Island.
Greenbelt Nature Center covers 2800 acres of New York. It has wetlands, kettle ponds, igneous rocks, sandstones, and many other nature preserves.
Many wildlife, including the American bullfrog, an eastern garter snake, a northern water snake, an eastern box turtle, and a common snapping turtle, are also found at Greenbelt Nature Center.
What Things Can You Do Here?
You’ll enjoy your trip to Greenbelt Nature Center, as this place has something for everyone to take advantage of. There are hiking trails, sparkling streams, and lakes you’ll adore.
It is also a perfect spot for bird watching; you can even witness some wildlife here. So whenever you have free time or look out for a place that provides various activities, choose Greenbelt Nature Center; this place will not disappoint you.
This place is covered with woods, and when you enter this place, you’ll treat yourself to nature. The views, scenery, environment, and atmosphere of Greenbelt Nature Center are so on point and attractive that a visitor who comes here doesn’t leave the place soon.
Greenville is accessible for visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm.
Address
700 Rockland Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-351-3450
10) Silver Lake Park
Silver Lake Park is a reservoir in New York; Forest Avenue bounds it. It is one of the most important places, with many touring things to do in Staten Island.
Silver Lake Park also features an 18-hole golf course, a tennis court, a play area, a dog park, a baseball field, and a tennis court inside its space.
Some local buses like S48, S62, S91, S98, S61, S66, and S92 take visitors to Silver Lake Park. Silver Lake Park is also famous for its views and picnicking facilities.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Want to grill some live BBQ? This only thing was left in the list of things to do in Staten Island, so now it’s time to cook some fresh meals by your hands while relaxing in the green grassy windy place of Silver Lake Park.
There are many open spaces here to keep you happily occupied; you can even bring your dogs here as they’ll be bored staying in hotel rooms. So let them wander around freely and stretch their legs while excitedly winging their tails.
Worried about snacking? You better not be, as a small tuck shop is also available for you, so if you feel hungry or thirsty, you can have some mouthwatering snacks to soothe your hunger and thirst. Have a happy meal with a happy deal.
Whether you go on early morning walks or late night hiking and trails, Silver Lake Park will welcome you with open hands, as it is operational daily from 6 am to 1 am.
Address
Victory Blvd. And Silver Lake Park Road, Staten Island, 10301 NY, United States
Contact Information
+1 212-639-9675
11) Carousel For All Children
Carousel For All Children is known as Willowbrook Park carousel. It is a merry-go-round based on zodiac signs established in 1999. Carousel For All Children is one of the most fun things to do in Staten Island.
This Carousel features 51 wood-carved beasts figures, some endangered species, and horses for kids to swing.
Carousel For All Children is under the management of Greenbelt Conservancy and NY local parks. It also features 29 handmade pictures of landmarks of New York.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Want to relive your childhood memories? Then take your kids to Carousel For All Children. They’ll enjoy the merry-go-round rides. Whatever season you visit, this place will give you unlimited fun every season.
This park is hard to find, so follow your maps closely; it is a less crowded place, so your children can easily enjoy sitting on the carousel repeatedly. Let them play freely until they get tired.
Lucky you and your kids, there are many other play rides in this Carousel Park where your kids can enjoy unlimited, and cherry on top, all those rides are free. So whenever they want to go out for an adventurous day, take them here at The Carousel For All Children and make them unbelievably happy.
You can take your kids to this wonderful carousel any day from 11 am to 5.45 pm.
Address
Eton Pl 2, Staten Island, 10314 NY, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-667-2165
12) North Mount Loretto State Forest
North Mount Loretto State Forest is a natural Preserve of Staten Island. The forest is 200 acres, with various fun things to do in Staten Island, including hiking, trailing, fishing, picnicking, and bird watching.
North Mount Loretto is a green grassland; it is said to be the fairytale place of Staten Island because of its scenery and natural beauty.
This forest is the heart of Staten Island, connecting different ponds, parks, gardens, and wetlands. Much wildlife can also be seen here during exploration.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Are you a nature lover, or do you want to explore the natural beauty of Staten Island? North Mount Loretto State Park is the top bright place in New York. It is so beautiful and unveiling that you’ll not leave so soon once you come here.
You can go hiking, trailing, walking, and jogging. So wear your joggers or shoes accordingly to not let your feet get tired quickly as you’ll have to explore the whole forest in a day.
It is a mind-blowing place for bird watching; many migrating birds also pass by from this area, so keep your cameras alert. Whenever you see those migrating birds, capture these precious moments with your cameras first.
This forest is available for late-night camping, early-morning hiking, and trailing. As the visitors’ hours are 24/7 so you can come anytime you want to.
Address
6450 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10309, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-482-4900
13) Buono Beach Park
Buono Beach is a small park located at the shoreline of Buono Beach; this park also features a veteran memorial foundation and some scenic things to do in Staten Island.
This park is named in honor of Giggy Buono, a south beach resident who died in the Vietnam war.
The Sandy Superstorm destroyed Buono Beach park in 2012; half of the park collapsed and was partially closed to the public. However, in 2016 after some renovations, the park was again opened to the public.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Have you already visited half of the attractive places on Staten Island and don’t have more places to go? Relax Buono Beach Park is yet to be discovered. Plan a picnic at this wonderful yet calming place and have some relaxing hours.
You can even sit on benches for several hours and do your office, school, or college work as it is less crowded, and you’ll get all the privacy you seek at Buono Beach Park.
You can even witness ships and boats sailing in the deep water; it is a perfect place to see the sunset with your friends. So wait no more and have this unique opportunity as soon as possible.
Plan a day out with your family and friends at Buono Beach from Monday to Sunday, 6 am to 1 am.
Address
287 Edgewater St, Staten Island, NY 10305, United States
Contact Information
718-873-4291
14) Steiny’s Pub
Steiny’s Pub is a combination place of The Hop Shoppe, The Pizza Parlour, and the Richmond Republic. The bar provides visitors with beer, wines, drinks, sparkling cocktails, and some relaxing things to do in Staten Island.
Steiny’s Pub is highly rated amongst tourists because of the staff and their ambition. It is also very close to the ferry and uber friendly area.
The menu of Steiny’s Pub includes brunch dishes, main courses, drinks, and other delicious snacks. Apart from food, the environment and atmosphere of this pub are also very lavish and upgraded.
What Things Can You Do Here?
Looking for a place to spend your evening or party hard? Lucky you, Steinys Pub is all set to cover your party and evening. So whenever you plan to visit a pub with your friends, you must drink at this cultural pub.
They also serve mouthwatering food besides drinks, wines, and beers. You can even plan a date here with your loved one; they’ll adore your choice, as this place is irreplaceable by any other Staten Island.
Dishes start from burgers, wraps, sandwiches, or baguettes; every dish served here is perfectly spiced up according to your taste. So give your taste buds some new taste and enjoy this pub to its fullest.
You can even go late at night as Steinys Pub is operational from 11 am to 3 am daily.
Address
3 Hyatt St, Staten Island, NY 10301, United States
Contact Information
+1 718-442-9526
15) Swinburne Island
Swinburne Island is an artificial island of 4 acres located in Staten Island. The federal government made this island after several pandemic cholera happened in this city. Swinburne Island has many historical and unique things to do in Staten Island.
Swinburne Island was where the migrants were kept as they suffered from some contagious disease.
When World War II started, this place was occupied by the United States Merchant as a training station.
What Things Can You Do Here?
On Swinburne Island, you can explore the man-made Island. Here you can get some nice spots for photography and walking. It is an old vintage place, so if you ever look for a place far away from the crowd, you can go to Swinburne Island.
As this island is not so popular, you’ll not get socializing opportunities, so visiting it with family or friends is better.
Suppose you have any documentaries to work on horror or creepy places. You can go to Swinburne Island, as the overview of this place looks a bit abandoned compared to other places on Staten Island.
Whenever you go on a road trip with your friends, if you get a chance to explore this ancient place, stop for some time and see the unique structures of Swinburne Island.
Address
Swinburne Island, Staten Island, NY, USA ∙
Contact Information
718 354-4606
Best Hotels To Stay In Staten Island
Searching for the best yet budget-friendly hotels to stay in Staten Island? Relax! Your work has been done. Below you’ll find all the high-rated hotels of Staten Island where you can live according to your will for hours, days, weeks, or months.
Visitors rate these hotels above four, so don’t hesitate to book your rooms here. You’ll get all the high-end services, hospitality, food, environment, atmosphere, and privacy here.
- Hilton Garden Inn New York/Staten Island.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Staten Island.
- Holiday Inn Express and Suites Woodbridge, an IHG Hotel.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Newark Elizabeth/Liberty International Airport.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Newark-Cranford.
- Watt Hotel Rahway, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Woodbridge Edison/Raritan Center.
- Holiday Inn Express West Staten Island, an IHG Hotel.
- Ramada by Wyndham Staten Island.
- Holiday Inn Clark in Newark Area, an IHG Hotel.
Do you know these hotels are eco-certified? Yes, they are, and cherry on top, some of these hotels are pet friendly, so you can even take your pets on vacation. But they should be litter trained! So, book your rooms and enjoy a refreshing morning every day after a peaceful sleep.
Final Words
Give yourself an adventurous treat by visiting Staten Island. There is a list of amazing activities and things to do in Staten Island; you just have to fly to this beautiful place for the rest of the work we’ve done for you above. Book rooms in cozy hotels and visit all the exciting places, and your trip will be unforgettable and mind-blowing.
Spend a day, night, week, or month; whether you start your journey from the short ferry ride or the popping museums, every place here has charm. So look no more and let your dream come true on going on a long waiting vacation.
Staten Island is a paradise city in New York. The food served here is exceptional; its taste will remain on your tongue for days. Enjoy your meals after you party hard with your friends, and don’t forget to share your experience with us!