NYC’s $5 Day Trip to the Forgotten Island🤔💭

i bet you no one’s ever recommended this place for your nyc trip!

⛴️ take the Staten Island Ferry over to Staten Island for a day trip! on the ferry ride you’ll see the Statue of Liberty - make sure to stay on the right side of the ferry to sneak a peek

🛍️ right when you get off the ferry, you’ll depart next to the Empire Outlets - definitely stop by for some good deals

🪴 next i would drive down to Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden for beautiful scenery (this will be the only paid activity of the day for a $5 ticket!)

& if you’re coming on a warm day & you’re feeling a picnic

🏰 either (1) go to Fort Wadsworth to catch the brooklyn and Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge view and the area is calm and there are lots of greenery there

🏖️ or (2) go to Midland Beach and take a walk down the boardwalk and picnic here instead if you prefer a sand over grass picnic

🍝 bonus tip: if you are just taking in the sights and prefer to eat indoors or coming when it’s colder out i definitely recommend Royal Crown Bakery for the BEST pasta and pastries in nyc! they don’t miss!!

#lemon8partner #statenisland #nyc #ThingsToDo #picnic

2025/12/10 Edited to

... Read moreStaten Island often slips under the radar when considering New York City’s travel destinations, yet it offers a unique blend of scenic views, cultural experiences, and budget-friendly activities perfect for a day trip. The Staten Island Ferry provides more than just free transportation; it offers breathtaking sights of the Statue of Liberty — a must-see for visitors wanting an iconic NYC photo without the crowds or entrance fees. Once on the island, the Empire Outlets stand out as a premier shopping spot featuring popular brands like Nordstrom Rack, Nike Outlet, Cotton On, and Aerie, ideal for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts alike. Beyond shopping, Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is a serene escape with diverse botanical collections and beautifully maintained gardens, accessible with just a $5 admission — a great way to experience art, culture, and nature combined. For outdoor leisure, Fort Wadsworth offers peaceful picnic spots with stunning views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and Brooklyn skyline, perfect for warm days and nature lovers. Alternatively, Midland Beach’s boardwalk delivers a sandy shore experience, a relaxing place for walks and picnics by the water. Food lovers should not miss Royal Crown Bakery, known locally for its exceptional pasta dishes and pastries — a cozy indoor dining option especially welcoming during colder months. By exploring Staten Island through these highlighted experiences, visitors can enjoy a well-rounded and affordable day in NYC’s often overlooked 'forgotten island,' balancing sightseeing, shopping, nature, and local flavors all within a modest budget.

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