Day trip on Governor’s Island
It’s August 2020, who would’ve thought the only form of travel I’d be able to do this year is traveling from Harlem to Lower Manhattan. Due to Ms.Rona, my plans of finally going over seas and exploring the desserts of Morocco and the street food carts of Thailand have painfully been cancelled, along with literally any and everything else planned for this year. But that’s fine! We don’t sulk around here. We adjust accordingly. After being furloughed from my job and spending the subsequent four months at home amidst a pandemic and racial turmoil, when NYC finally became safe enough to reopen in phases I was more than excited. Spending months alone with your cat can do something to you. The ability to outdoor dine essentially saved my mental health. Sad, I know, but it’s the truth. When having a friend come visit me, I tried to plan a day that involved more than just eating and drinking, even though for me that’s all you really need to have a good time. I checked the Thrillist site to see what was popping in the city that weekend. I suggest using Thrillist even if you don’t live in New York. They have great articles on things to do and where to eat in major cities across the U.S. and around the world. I found out that Governors Island was opening for the first time that weekend so we made that our move for the day.
History
Have ya’ll seen Hamilton the musical? If you haven’t, I suggest you do. It’s a great musical with some historical insight. Like who knew New York City has been around and established since around the 1700’s? I sure didn’t. Here’s a little history on Governors Island and it’s significance. Founded by Natives, of course, the island located in the New York Harbor was originally named “nut island” before being renamed Governors Island by the late 18th century. George Washington used the island as a military installation, building defensive forts during the American Revolution. Once the war ended, the island was then used as a hotel and racetrack along with housing soldiers and their families. During the 1850’s and 1860’s, a hospital was also built to treat patients of yellow fever and cholera. By the mid 20th century, a program was contracted to build new structures such as a movie theater, YMCA, and a public school. Today, the island has a public park and includes free arts and cultural events with over 800,00 visitors per year.
Activities
Alright. Enough history. Let’s get into how you can spend the day here. Many of the art installations and other activities are closed due to the fact that we are still in a pandemic, unfortunately. Nonetheless, there are plenty of options to enjoy this historic island. If you’re into being active and exercising there’s no better place to ride your bike, void of cars and buses, than here. The ferry to the island allows for visitors to bring along bikes and any other items that may aid in your exploring. There are also three Citi Bike rental locations throughout the island. Blazing Saddles offers bikes, surreys, pedal cars, scooters and more for rent. Plenty of options for when you and your date disagree on a mode of transportation. When in need of some rest, lounge in Hammock Grove, a section of hammocks galore to take in that New York sun. For the kiddies, there’s also the Hammock Grove play area, a small park for the kids to enjoy. This island is really a respite form the hustle and bustle of the city. A quiet place to walk and talk. Bring a blanket and some goodies and have yourself a picnic in the grass shaded by many trees. Stroll past the old forts and houses that line the island. Take in some fresh air and take a break from the wild Wild West that is the year 2020.
Food & Drinks
Ooh my favorite part, the food and drinks! As previously mentioned, this is all I really care about and to enjoy these items while having an aesthetically pleasing view is *chef’s kiss*. Makes my day. There is a great variety of food options on Governor’s Island. If you’re looking for a quick bite before you hop back on that bike, there are plenty of food trucks with tasty treats. The Kimchi Taco Truck offers a diverse menu of Korean street classics and vegetarian options. Cool off with some ice cream sandwiches from the Melt Bakery. Get some sweets with your sweetie at the Everything About Crepes stand. To really impress your significant other or your family and friends with breathtaking views, take them to either Taco Vista or Island Oyster. Spice up your life with some tacos and margaritas at Taco Vista and enjoy on picnic tables facing the lower Manhattan skyline. To enjoy the best lobster sandwich I’ve ever had along with some delectable oysters and other seafood items you’ve got to check out Island Oyster. With the same ‘make you never want to leave New York’ views at Taco Vista along with some great drinks, your companion will be surely impressed, and drunk.
There you have it. The perfect daytime date, family outing, enjoy by yourself day. No need to thank me, just book your tickets and take a shot of tequila for me while you’re there.