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NYC's only adventure playground is The Yard, located in the heart of Governors Island. Photo by Philipp Klaus

Best Things To Do on Governors Island with Kids

1. The Yard

Governors Island's adventure playground, known as The Yard, is a favorite of my kids and all kids (and parents) I know! Parents sit on the sidelines while kids romp in the 50,000-square-foot creative space, turning recycled materials (OK, some would call it junk!) into playthings limited only by their imagination. We visited several times and were impressed. Be forewarned: You'll be hard-pressed to get your kids to leave! The Yard is open spring and summer weekends and offers after-school programming and summer camp.

2. Hammock Grove

Open year round, this dreamy hideaway is home to the island’s signature red hammocks, just waiting for you to hop in. Nestled within a young urban forest, it’s full of cozy nooks that feel like your own secret getaway. Take a quiet stroll along the winding paths or simply lie back and watch the clouds drift by—you might even catch a glimpse of Lady Liberty. It’s a little slice of calm in the middle of the city hustle. A note for families: This area is as popular with kanoodling 20-somethings as it is for families. Don’t worry, I think each makes the other equally uncomfortable!

3. Hammock Grove Play Area

Tucked away on the south end of Liggett Terrace, this kid-friendly zone is packed with fun play structures perfect for climbing, swinging, and letting imaginations run wild. The structures blend perfectly into the surrounding natural environment and look as if they’re made with fallen logs. The playground is conveniently located close to the food trucks and the bathroom.

4. Play Fountains

Three play fountains nestled in the Liggett Terrace hedge maze boast 90 water jets, so be sure to pack the bathing suits on a hot summer day.

RELATED: 21 NYC Playgrounds Worthy of a Subway Schlep

Shanell Martin has transformed an old chapel into a modern masterpiece on Governors Island. Photo by Jennifer Dale.

5. Explore FREE Art

Art is everywhere on Governors Island. You’ll find larger-than-life installations and smaller, tucked-away pieces that feel like secret discoveries. The art is meant to allow for pro­longed and immer­sive explo­ration and discovery, offering surprising moments that spark curiosity and conversation, for kids and grown-ups alike!

Some of our favorites include Bird MMXXIII, near the Play Lawns, which reflects you, the natural world around you, and the Statue of Liberty. We also loved Church, by Shanell Martin. Outside, you can walk around the decommissioned Our Lady Star of the Sea, a former military chapel, and enjoy the black and white flowing drawings. Inside, take your shoes off and enjoy Martin’s interior piece The May Room, an immersive, hand-drawn environment designed for gathering and exchanging ideas.

To learn more about art on the island, download the FREE Bloomberg Connects app for a handy guide packed with behind-the-scenes stories and artist insights.

6. Lavender Field

Every June, this field bursts into a sea of color—think deep purples, soft blues, delicate lavenders, and silvery greens. But no matter the season, it’s a beautiful spot for a stroll, a family photo shoot, or a quiet moment to take a deep breath. Find more than 550 lavender plants in four different varieties, all lovingly maintained by dedicated Earth Matter volunteers. It’s a true nature-lovers’ haven. Pack a picnic, stretch out on a blanket, and let the calming scent of lavender work its magic.

7. Enjoy a Historic Walking Tour

Take a walk through time on the Official Governors Island Walking Tour, where families can explore more than 400 years of history, all while strolling the island at your own pace. Before staking out, Down­load the Urban Archive app and walk to the east­ern shore near Pier 102 to begin the offi­cial self-guid­ed tour, which is accompanied by an incredible collection of historical photographs, you’ll get to compare scenes from the past with what you’re seeing today—perfect for curious kids and history-loving grownups alike. From the Island’s early days with the Lenape people to its modern transformation, it’s a fun, educational adventure that brings NYC’s rich history to life.

Blazing Saddles offers a variety of bikes for all ages, abilities, and skill levels.

8. Go Bike Riding

Governors Island features seven miles of flat, car-free roads for cycling, which makes it perfect for kids to ride bikes. You can even cycle Governors Island's entire perimeter. Bikes are welcome on the ferry—and board first—or rent from Blazing Saddles once you arrive. Blaz­ing Sad­dles offers FREE Bike Morn­ings, where you can enjoy a one-hour cruis­er bike rental from 9am-12pm on week­days (exclud­ing hol­i­days). CitiBikes are also available on the Island.

9. Go Fishing

Catch-and-release fishing is allowed in designated areas along the western promenade. Kids can fish without a license, but adults ages 16 and older need a valid NY State fishing license. Licenses are inexpensive, but they're not sold on the island. Click here for info on obtaining one.

10. Winter Dog Days

Dog days on Governors Island are something special! From November through April, Governors Island is open to and allows your four-legged family members to sniff, stroll, and explore right alongside you. This is really an extra special treat for your urban dog and family. It was a delight to see our dog’s ears flapping in the wind on the boat and her joy at all the sniffing and rolling in the grass. Dogs are welcome daily in the offseason, but the rest of the year, only service animals are allowed. Pups must stay on a leash except when enjoying the seasonal off-leash dog park in Colonels Row. Don’t forget to snag the FREE dog ticket add-on when you book your ferry ride.

11. Build Your Oyster Knowledge

The Billion Oyster Project and the New York Harbor School, which is located on Governors Island, join forces to educate the public on the importance of oysters in our estuary, hosting educational weekend workshops. If you want to get hands-on and help out, there are occasional volunteer days, too.

RELATED: Battery Playscape Brings New Playground to Lower Manhattan

Even parents enjoy a trip down NYC's longest slide at Slide Hill! Photo by Jody Mercier

12. Slide Hill

Note: Slide Hill is currently closed for maintenance
Slide Hill is a family-favorite stop on Governors Island. Kids can climb to the top via the Timber Climb or enjoy a more relaxed stroll up the winding path, all leading to the real fun: the slides! There are three smaller slides perfect for younger kiddos, including a sweet family slide built for two—ideal for sharing the ride. If your crew includes a little daredevil, they’ll love the big one: a curvy, 57-foot-long slide that soars three stories high—making it the longest in all of NYC. It’s a must-do for your next family outing!

13. Check Out a Cool Castle and a Fort

Castle Williams, royal as it sounds, actually served as a military prison. Embark on a self-guided tour of the landmark's exterior, as well as Fort Jay, which is situated more in the center of Governors Island. Both sites are managed by the National Park Service, and kids can visit to earn Junior Ranger Badges during regular program hours. Bookmark the NPS calendar for upcoming tours and programs.

The only way to spend the night on Governors Island is in the luxury tent city at Collective Governors Island. Photo courtesy of the resort

14. Collective Governors Island

Collective Governors Island offers a luxurious glamping retreat on the island's western edge. Choose from high-quality tents or self-contained luxury trailers—complete with AC—under the watchful eye of Lady Liberty. Some tents have shared restrooms, premium tents feature en suite bathrooms, and the newer Outlook Shelters have spa-like bathrooms and private terraces. Prices are steep but keep your eye out for occasional specials. If you don't want to spring for an overnight stay, check out the digs on a weekend afternoon when the on-site bar/restaurant is open to the public and lawn games are FREE for all.

15. Tour the MicroFactory

See how post-consumer plastic gets turned into products at th Micro­Fac­to­ry, an off-grid man­u­fac­tur­ing oper­a­tion in a portable ship­ping con­tain­er on Governors Island that pro­duces no tox­ins, pol­lu­tants, or waste and is powered solely by solar panels. The team is on-site on weekends to answer questions and provide tours.

16. Kayak with the Downtown Boathouse

Note: The dock is currently undergoing repairs, and kayaking will not resume until it's fixed.
The Downtown Boathouse runs a FREE kayaking program on Governors Island. The operating season should begin in June, but bookmark the website for updates.

RELATED: Best Things To Do at the South Street Seaport with Kids

Governors Island has plenty of beautiful green space to enjoy, whether your kids want to romp or you want to relax. Photo by Sara Marenette

17. Commune with Nature

There are lush lawns and beautiful trees everywhere you look on Governors Island. It's a beautiful spot to spread a blanket and enjoy a picnic, whether you choose the shady Colonels Row, Picnic Point with its grills and tables, or another spot. It's hard not to love the wide-open spaces here.

18. GrowNYC

GrowNYC operates an urban farm with hands-on programming on weekends. Stop by to explore the activity-packed 1-acre plot that's home to 20 planting beds, an outdoor kitchen, greenhouse, fruit trees, rainwater catch systems, and even a hydroponic container farm.

19. Earth Matter

Meanwhile, Earth Matter offers composting lessons and face time with its menagerie of animals.

20. QC Spa

OK, this one is for the parents only, but did you know Governors Island is home to this European-style spa with stunning skyline views, blooming landscapes, steam rooms, saunas, and a full menu of rejuvenating treatments? Consider this your ultimate getaway from the hustle and bustle, and thank us later!

21. Go Sledding

Come winter's snow, The Hills at Governors Island are open for sledding and one of our favorite sledding spots in the city. Imagine the snowman-building opportunities, too!

Top Annual Events on Governors Island for Families

22. Jazz Age Lawn Party

This annual summer festival transports visitors to the Roaring '20s, and flapper frocks are de rigueur. Enjoy live music, dance lessons, old-school lawn games, and more.

23. NYC Poetry Festival

Poetry organizations from across the five boroughs descend on Governors Island for the annual NYC Poetry Festival, bringing verses of all shapes and styles to Colonels Row. Sign up to read your original work. FREE

24. Porch Stomp

Governors Island has some historic houses, and each of their stately front porches come alive with music during the annual Porch Stomp. It's folk music at its finest in the great outdoors. FREE

25. Winter Ice Sculpture Show

This annual wintertime celebration is a great reminder that Governors Island is a year-round destination. Enjoy live ice-carving demonstrations, snacks from local food trucks, warming fire pits, and a mellow island vibe. FREE

RELATED: Best Cold Treats in NYC for Kids: Ice Cream, Ice Pops, and More

Enjoy paletas and more cool treats from La Newyorkina. 

Where to Eat on Governors Island

There are a variety of excellent food vendors selling a variety of cuisines on Governors Island, but be sure to take note of their hours before you visit and plan accordingly. If you're visiting on a weekday, the options on Governors Island are much more limited. Here are a few of our favorite bites:

26. La Newyorkina

Handmade Mexican ice cream, paletas, and sweet treats are doled out in a variety of unique flavors from this summer only sweets purveyor.

27. Little Eva's

A mainstay on Governors Island, find kid-pleasers like burgers and fries served alongside more sophisticated options infused with plenty of island spice at Little Eva's.

28. Pizzeria Fantastica

Dig into slices of wood-fired pizza at this pizza joint located on Colonels Row.

29. Brigs Sweet Shop

Small-batch scoops, plus cookies and desserts, are served from a charming cart on Liggett Terrace courtesy of Brigs Sweet Shop.

30. Taco Vista

Simple, delicious Mexican fare is served with a side of skyline at the waterfront Taco Vista.

31. Three Peaks Lodge

For a bit of a splurge, head to Three Peaks Lodge at Collective Governors Island. This farm-to-table restaurant is an experience unto itself. Cocktails and shareable apps on its terrace make for a picture-perfect ending to a day here.

Bathrooms on Governors Island

Restrooms with flush toilets are located inside Building 110 at Soissons Landing—the building to the right upon exiting the Manhattan ferry on the island.

On the rest of the island, there are a number of port-a-potty locations, as well as restroom trailers near the food courts at Liggett Terrace and Slide Hill. The island is very busy in-season and on the weekends. You might want to consider bringing your own wipes and hand sanitizer.

Restrooms can also be found at the ferry terminals.

Governors Island Ferry Service

The only way to get to Governors Island is by ferry, but there are several options depending on the season:

Manhattan ferry service runs daily, year-round from the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street. Fares are $5 round-trip for guests ages 13 and older. Everyone rides for FREE on weekends before 11am. IDNYC holders, NYCHA residents, members of the military, and seniors all ride for FREE at all times.

The NYC Ferry also serves Governors Island daily year-round, with stops on the Lower East Side, Wall Street, and along the south Brooklyn waterfront. NYC Ferry tickets cost $4.50 each way for anyone over 44 inches tall.

Seasonal weekend Brooklyn ferry service runs from Red Hook and Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park and from late spring through summer.

More Know Before You Go Tips for Visiting Governors Island

• Bring a water bottle to refill (and save some cash!) at fountains near Liggett Terrace, Yankee Pier, Slide Hill, and Soissons Landing.
• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes: You're going to be spending a lot of time walking around outside.
• Even though the isle is open seven days a week, many attractions are not: Food vendors and many special programs only take place on weekends, so if you're going on a weekday, make sure you check the calendar to confirm what's going on. Though, truth be told, weekdays offer a quiet respite from the city!
• Take time to explore: Even if you go for a specific event or have an itinerary in mind, there are so many wonderful things to do, it's best to have a flexible schedule. Many buildings house artisans and boutiques, art installations, or other programs. Since the isle is totally walkable, it's ideal for exploring, and there are cool discoveries in every nook and cranny.
• Download the map. Honestly, you probably won't need it, as there are maps and signage posted across Governors Island, but it can't hurt.
• Keep an eye out for bikes. While there are no cars on Governors Island, there are a ton of cyclists. Most are careful, especially since there are so many children wandering around. But remind your kids that when they're walking on the streets, bikes may come flying their way.

Originally published in 2010. Jody Mercier contributed additional reporting.