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!!
Staten 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.