STATEN ISLAND DAY TRIP
I’ll be honest—Staten Island was never at the top of my NYC bucket list. But I took the ferry and ended up having a charming day trip.
Started the morning with the classic Staten Island Ferry ride (yes, it’s free and the skyline views are unbeatable). As soon as we docked, I headed toward the Stapleton Heights Historic District—it’s a bit of a walk uphill, but SO worth it. Think old Victorian mansions, winding roads, and a vibe that feels more Hudson Valley than NYC. Quiet, leafy, and full of character.
From there, I walked over to Tompkinsville , which is home to Little Sri Lanka—and it’s not just a nickname. Staten Island actually has the largest Sri Lankan population in the U.S. Many families settled here in the 70s and 80s, and the area is still full of cultural pride. The food? Unreal. I stopped by Lakruwana Restaurant , a bold, colorful spot that serves traditional Sri Lankan dishes—string hoppers, spicy sambols, rich coconut curries. It’s a must if you’re into bold flavors.
To wind down the day, I took a short ride to the Alice Austen House . It’s right on the waterfront and dedicated to one of America’s earliest female photographers. The house itself is so charming, and the lawn has dreamy views of the Verrazzano Bridge. I brought a book and relaxed under the sun:
If you’re craving a slower pace and cultural depth that flies under the radar, Staten Island might just surprise you. #lemon8partner
After my amazing Staten Island day trip, I realized there's so much more to know to make your visit even better! If you're planning your own adventure, here are some extra tips and insights I gathered to help you truly make the most of your time on this often-overlooked borough. First, let's talk about the iconic Staten Island Ferry. It’s not just a means of transport; it’s an experience in itself, especially for catching that spectacular "staten island ferry passing statue of liberty view." For the best photos of Lady Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, try to snag a spot on the starboard (right) side of the ferry when heading to Staten Island, and the port (left) side on your return journey. It's a free 25-minute scenic cruise each way, perfect for soaking in the sights without the cost of a tourist boat. Just remember, it gets crowded, especially on weekends, so aim for an off-peak time if possible. Once you arrive at the St. George Ferry Terminal, resist the urge to just hop back on! There are so many "things to do near the staten island ferry." My walk to the "STAPLETON HEIGHTS HISTORIC DISTRICT" was a highlight. While it is a bit of an uphill climb, the reward is stunning Victorian architecture and quiet, tree-lined streets that feel a world away from bustling Manhattan. It’s a fantastic area to simply wander and admire the historic homes. Wear comfortable shoes – seriously, you'll thank me! Then there's Tompkinsville, home to Little Sri Lanka. My experience with "SRI LANKAN FOOD AT LAKRUWANA" was a culinary revelation! But don't limit yourself to just one restaurant. The whole neighborhood is brimming with authentic bakeries and smaller eateries. Take some time to explore the grocery stores for unique spices and snacks. It’s a vibrant cultural immersion that truly makes a "staten island day trip" unique. Finally, the "ALICE AUSTEN HOUSE MUSEUM" provides a peaceful end to the day. This charming house, right on the waterfront, tells the fascinating story of one of America's earliest female photographers. The lawn offers breathtaking views of the Verrazzano Bridge, making it an ideal spot to relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the scenery. It's easily accessible from the ferry terminal via a short bus ride or ride-share, making it a convenient stop. For those wondering about "day trips from staten island" or how to extend their visit, consider exploring the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden if you have more time. It's a bit further out but offers beautiful gardens, museums, and a Chinese Scholar Garden. Getting around Staten Island is relatively easy with local buses and ride-share options, so don't feel limited to just walking. Embrace the unexpected, and let Staten Island charm you with its rich history and diverse culture!
Cute 🥰🥰