It's not too early to plan summer outings in New York. In fact, most of Gotham's most popular summer events and special warm-weather attractions like Governors Island are now open for the 2017 season.
Speaking of islands, we can't think of a better getaway than taking a ferry to an oasis off New York Harbor or riding a boat down the East River. Since summer is the best season for the outdoors, we've taken the liberty to list three can't-miss islands. These are our favorites.
City Island https://cityislandchamber.org/
This tiny nautical slice of NYC paradise island has a blue collar neighborhood and is approximately 1 and a half mile long by a half mile wide. At one time it was part of Westchester County, but now belongs to New York City at the northeastern most point of The Bronx. If your idea of a good time is swimming or sunbathing on the sand, there is Orchard Beach. You can also stop by the fee free City Island Nautical Museum to learn all about City Island’s shipbuilding history and to see wooden boat displays and photographs of City Island life from years gone by. It’s open on weekends, or by appointment. There are multiple places to enjoy a great meal, but our favorite is Sammy's Restaurant. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJNc7A1S2tM
Governors Island https://govisland.com/
Can’t afford a tropical getaway? Hitch a ferry to New York’s car-free island, and once you arrive, get a tan as you chill in one of its hammocks. But it’s not all about taking a load off here. After launching the appropriately named 10-acre park the Hills last summer, this island continues to expand with exciting openings of attractions like the beer garden from the Grand Banks team, serving seafood and cocktails and a new recreational facility with a climbing wall, maze and zip line. Tried-and-true events such as the 1920s banger Jazz Age Lawn Party. jazzagelawnparty.com
Randalls Island https://randallsisland.org/
Islanders of all ages can bring a blanket and pack a picnic for free movie nights starting May 28. The park projects fabulous films. There is also free yoga along the water and excellent bike and running trails for those who want to maintain their summer. Art lovers can enjoy the works on display during outdoor exhibitions which features interactive projects by artists from The Bronx. http://www.bronxmuseum.org/
TO LEARN MORE > 3 LINKS BELOW
26 NYC islands you might not even know existed https://www.thrillist.com/entertainment/new-york/brooklyn/26-nyc-island…
Get To Know 34 of New York City's Most Obscure Islands https://ny.curbed.com/maps/get-to-know-34-of-new-york-citys-most-obscur…
New York's Treasure Trove of Tiny Islands http://www.thirteen.org/metrofocus/2011/10/the-archipelago-of-new-york-…