Staten Island might just be the most unique of all New York City’s boroughs. Compared with the rest of the city, the Island has a distinct suburban feel.
Unlike the built-up busy streets of Manhattan or Brooklyn, Staten Island is populated with single-story family homes, tree-lined neighbourhoods and homes with gardens. The island has no subway system, instead relying on cars, and large natural reserves are scattered around making it an oasis of green. The island has locally owned businesses and is generally quieter and less chaotic than the rest of NYC.
Did you know?
In the 1990s, Staten Island voted to secede from NYC. The vote occurred in 1993 and was the result of growing frustration on the island with issues like high taxes, a sense of neglect, and dissatisfaction with how the city was managed. While the referendum showed significant local support, the city and state governments did not entertain the idea of allowing Staten Island to break away.
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The History of Staten Island
Staten Island’s rich history began with the Lenape Native Americans, who inhabited the land long before the Dutch settlers arrived in the 1600s. The island was crucial in helping the United States secure its independence from the British, who had control of New York at that time, playing a crucial role in the American Revolution, with key military encampments on the land.
All throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the island experienced rapid industrial growth, urbanisation and an increase in ferry transportation. One of the most significant events in its history was the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in 1964, which connected Staten Island to Brooklyn and led to a surge in residential development.
Historic neighborhoods in Staten Island
- St. George
- Tottenville
- Great Kills
- Midland Beach & South Beach
- West Brighton
St. George
St. George is located on the northeastern tip of Staten Island and is best known for being the home of the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. It has stunning waterfront views of Manhattan and is one of the more urbanised parts of the borough. The area has historic architecture and cultural institutions like the Staten Island Museum. The area is rapidly growing and becoming a hotspot for new businesses.
Tottenville
Tottenville, situated at the southernmost tip of Staten Island, also has incredible waterfront views. It also holds a lot of historic significance, having once been a major shipbuilding home. It’s also home to the Conference House Park, where unsuccessful peace negotiations between British and American representatives took place during the Revolutionary War.
Great Kills
Great Kills is home to Great Kills Park, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, which provides beaches, marinas, and trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Like much of Staten Island, there are plenty of local shops and restaurants and a very relaxed vibe.
Midland Beach & South Beach
Midland Beach & South Beach are two adjacent waterfront neighborhoods that offer direct access to Staten Island’s beaches and boardwalks. Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk & Beach runs along the coastline, attracting joggers, bikers, and beachgoers.
South Beach is a little more modern and busy, whilst Midland Beach has a more traditional suburban feel.
Things to do in Staten Island
There are a lot of things to do in Staten Island, with a variety of attractions for all sorts of visitors.
The Staten Island Greenbelt
The Staten Island Greenbelt is over 2,800 acres of forests, wetlands, meadows and hiking trails. It is one of New York City’s largest and most beautiful natural preserves, making it a perfect destination for those who love the outdoors.
The Greenbelt Center has interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided nature walks. There are plenty of walking and hiking trails and fishing spots, as well as an old-fashioned carousel in Willobrook Park.
The Greenbelt is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turtles, frogs, and many bird species. Nature lovers often visit the area for birdwatching and photography.
High Rock Park is one of the Greenbelt’s most scenic spots, known for its quiet beauty, wildlife and serene ponds. If you head to Moses’s Mountain, you’ll see breathtaking views of the island and beyond.
Historic Richmond Town
Historic Richmond Town is Staten Island’s premier living history museum, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life from the colonial era through the 19th century. Located in the heart of Staten Island, this preserved village spans over 100 acres and includes more than 30 historic buildings, some dating as far back as the late 1600s. It is the only historic town of its kind in New York City, making it a unique attraction for history lovers.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Spanning 83 acres, Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden combines history, art, nature and education and is a must-visit for anyone visiting the island. Originally built as a retirement home for sailors in the 19th century, Snug Harbor has since transformed into a thriving cultural and botanical oasis, offering museums, performance spaces, and stunning gardens.
The grounds feature several unique botanical Gardens, including the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden, one of the only authentic classical Chinese gardens in the U.S.
There’s also the Tuscab Gardens, inspired by Italian Renaissance landscapes, and the Rose Garden, which is especially vibrant in the summer.
Staten Island Chuck
Staten Island Chuck is one of the most famous weather-predicting groundhogs in the United States, known for his annual Groundhog Day forecast at the Staten Island Zoo. Every year on February 2nd, Chuck emerges from his burrow to predict whether there will be six more weeks of winter or if spring will come early—just like Pennsylvania’s more well-known Punxsutawney Phil.
The Groundhog Day ceremony at the Staten Island Zoo is a big local event, with schoolchildren, politicians, and reporters attending to hear Chuck’s prediction.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk & Beach
Waterfront attractions, ocean views and sandy beaches – this is what you should expect when you visit the boardwalk and beach. The Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) Boardwalk & Beach stretches along the east coast of Staten Island for 2.5 miles and offers plenty of outdoor activities. The beautiful boardwalk connects South Beach and Midland Beach and is a great place for watersports or relaxing on the beach.
Fort Wadsworth
Fort Wadsworth is one of the oldest military installations in the United States and offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s military history, as well as breathtaking views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the New York Harbor.
Fort Wadsworth is home to several historic buildings, including the Battery Weed, Battery Duane, and the Officer’s Quarters. These structures were once part of the fort’s defenses and are now preserved for visitors to explore. Take a tour of the military history exhibits, enjoy some hiking and watch the sunset from the spectacular views the fort has.
Shopping in Staten Island
Staten Island Mall
The Staten Island Mall is the largest shopping center on the island, located in New Springville. It has over 200 stores, ranging from department stores to fashion retailers. There’s plenty of restaurants, a movie theatre and lots of other things to do.
Bay Street
Here is where you’ll find local boutique shops and independent stores. It’s an artsy and trendy area located in St. George and is perfect for those looking for more unique purchases. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to visit.
Best places to eat in Staten Island
You’ll find a rich mix of Italian, American, Mediterranean and international cuisine. From fine dining to family-run diners, here are some of the best places to visit:
- Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant
- Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern
- The Green Olive
- Elia Mediterranean Grill
Why is Staten Island so famous?
Staten Island is most well-known for its green park spaces, museums and historical buildings. It is often considered the “borough of parks” because of its numerous natural spaces. Notable parks include Clove Lakes, High Rock Park, Greenbelt and Lemon Creek Park.
Is Staten Island a nice area?
If you want to have a big family and you don’t want to raise your kids in the midst of all the hustle and bustle, then moving to Staten Island will be the right move for you!
Is Staten Island expensive?
Staten Island is more expensive than the national average, but less expensive than other parts of New York City. Housing costs, transportation, and food are all more expensive than the national average.