14 Best Islands in New York City
"Islands in NYC" may seem unexpected, but they do exist! These hidden gems, including Roosevelt Island and Governors Island, offer unique experiences, stunning views, and a escape from bustling city life. With rich histories, recreational activities, and cultural events, exploring these "Islands in NYC" is a must for any urban adventurer.
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1. Long Island
A perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban excitement
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Long Island, known for its Jazz Age mansions, is no longer restricted to the private domain but has thrown open its doors to welcome the public as museums. The region has transformed into an inviting destination that offers a diverse range of attractions. Summer is the perfect time to plan a visit, with art museums, aquariants, and vineyards that offer wine tastings and freshly shucked oysters, all adding to Long Island's appeal.
Visitors looking for a quintessential beach experience should not miss out on Jones Beach State Park. Its wide-open shoreline, dotted with picturesque spots, boasts crystal-clear ocean waters that invite swimming and other water activities. The boardwalk, ideal for a leisurely stroll, also features shuffleboard and mini-golf, making it a perfect location for fun-filled family outings.
Long Island, known for its Jazz Age mansions, is no longer restricted to the private domain but has thrown open its doors to welcome the public as museums. The region has transformed into an inviting destination that offers a diverse range of attractions. Summer is the perfect time to plan a visit, with art museums, aquariants, and vineyards that offer wine tastings and freshly shucked oysters, all adding to Long Island's appeal.
Visitors looking for a quintessential beach experience should not miss out on Jones Beach State Park. Its wide-open shoreline, dotted with picturesque spots, boasts crystal-clear ocean waters that invite swimming and other water activities. The boardwalk, ideal for a leisurely stroll, also features shuffleboard and mini-golf, making it a perfect location for fun-filled family outings.
2. North Brother Island
A hidden gem of New York's forgotten past.
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North Brother Island, located in the East River, is a protected area that is not easily accessible to the public. It is a significant site for shorebirds, forming part of the Harbor Herons Region, a complex of uninhabited islands and marshes that are crucial for various bird species. This nationally recognized area is essential for the conservation of these birds, making North Brother Island a vital component of this effort.
The island is a 20-acre expanse of ruins, filled with stories of isolation and tragedy. Its history is deeply intertwined with that of the city, despite its physical separation. North Brother Island is home to various abandoned structures, including a hospital complex, that serve as a reminder of its past as a quarantine site for infectious diseases such as smallpox and tuberculosis. The island's isolation made it an ideal location for such a purpose, and its haunting ruins continue to stand as a testament to the many lives that were affected by these diseases.
North Brother Island, located in the East River, is a protected area that is not easily accessible to the public. It is a significant site for shorebirds, forming part of the Harbor Herons Region, a complex of uninhabited islands and marshes that are crucial for various bird species. This nationally recognized area is essential for the conservation of these birds, making North Brother Island a vital component of this effort.
The island is a 20-acre expanse of ruins, filled with stories of isolation and tragedy. Its history is deeply intertwined with that of the city, despite its physical separation. North Brother Island is home to various abandoned structures, including a hospital complex, that serve as a reminder of its past as a quarantine site for infectious diseases such as smallpox and tuberculosis. The island's isolation made it an ideal location for such a purpose, and its haunting ruins continue to stand as a testament to the many lives that were affected by these diseases.
3. Rikers Island
Transforming from a notorious jail to a hub of sustainability.
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A group of islands within the five boroughs of New York City have been utilized for various purposes, often serving as sites for managing society's marginalized individuals. Roosevelt Island, North Brother Island, Randall's Island, and Wards Island have a history of housing hospitals, shelters, and other facilities for the sick, poor, and vulnerable. One notable example is the Smallpox Hospital on North Brother Island, which operated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Rikers Island, however, has garnered a particularly notorious reputation for violence, abuse, and neglect of its inmates. This has led to intense media coverage and legal challenges, resulting in multiple rulings against the New York City government. The island, which primarily functions as a jail complex, has long been a source of controversy due to allegations of mistreatment of detainees, substandard living conditions, and questionable management practices. Efforts have been made to reform the facility, but its troubled legacy persists, making it a subject of ongoing debate and public concern.
A group of islands within the five boroughs of New York City have been utilized for various purposes, often serving as sites for managing society's marginalized individuals. Roosevelt Island, North Brother Island, Randall's Island, and Wards Island have a history of housing hospitals, shelters, and other facilities for the sick, poor, and vulnerable. One notable example is the Smallpox Hospital on North Brother Island, which operated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Rikers Island, however, has garnered a particularly notorious reputation for violence, abuse, and neglect of its inmates. This has led to intense media coverage and legal challenges, resulting in multiple rulings against the New York City government. The island, which primarily functions as a jail complex, has long been a source of controversy due to allegations of mistreatment of detainees, substandard living conditions, and questionable management practices. Efforts have been made to reform the facility, but its troubled legacy persists, making it a subject of ongoing debate and public concern.
4. Belmont Island
A tiny sanctuary amidst the bustling city.
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U Thant Island, also known as Belmont Island, is a tiny landmass located in the East River of New York City, near Roosevelt Island. Its official name is derived from the American tunnel-boring company that created it during the construction of the Steinway Tunnel in the early 20th century. The island is uninhabited, spanning just 100 feet by 200 feet, and its remote location has kept it isolated from the public for many years. Consequently, the island's seclusion has made it a perfect habitat for various migrating bird species, with cormorants being the most common.
Although the island is small and unassuming, it holds historical significance as a symbol of international diplomacy. In 1972, the United Nations Secretary-General, U Thant, visited the island, and it was subsequently renamed in his honor. Today, U Thant Island stands as a peaceful refuge for wildlife, providing a unique interlude from the bustling city environment. Its importance extends beyond its physical size, as it represents the harmonious coexistence of nature and civilization in an urban landscape.
U Thant Island, also known as Belmont Island, is a tiny landmass located in the East River of New York City, near Roosevelt Island. Its official name is derived from the American tunnel-boring company that created it during the construction of the Steinway Tunnel in the early 20th century. The island is uninhabited, spanning just 100 feet by 200 feet, and its remote location has kept it isolated from the public for many years. Consequently, the island's seclusion has made it a perfect habitat for various migrating bird species, with cormorants being the most common.
Although the island is small and unassuming, it holds historical significance as a symbol of international diplomacy. In 1972, the United Nations Secretary-General, U Thant, visited the island, and it was subsequently renamed in his honor. Today, U Thant Island stands as a peaceful refuge for wildlife, providing a unique interlude from the bustling city environment. Its importance extends beyond its physical size, as it represents the harmonious coexistence of nature and civilization in an urban landscape.
5. Roosevelt Island
A tranquil oasis in the heart of NYC
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Roosevelt Island, a 2-mile-long stretch of land in the East River, provides a tranquil alternative to the fast-paced lifestyle of Manhattan. With a quiet and low-key atmosphere, the island offers a peaceful escape for those seeking a break from the city's usual hustle and bustle. The island's location also offers stunning views of the New York City skyline and the East River, making it a perfect spot for scenic walks and relaxation.
Visitors to Roosevelt Island can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the island's historic sites, such as the Smallpox Hospital and the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, to taking a stroll through the parks and gardens. The island's many pathways and walkways make it an ideal location for biking, jogging, or simply taking a leisurely walk. Additionally, the Roosevelt Island Tram offers a unique and convenient way to travel to and from the island, providing stunning views of the city and the river along the way. Overall, Roosevelt Island is a hidden gem in the heart of New York City, offering a peaceful and scenic escape from the city's usual hustle and bustle.
Roosevelt Island, a 2-mile-long stretch of land in the East River, provides a tranquil alternative to the fast-paced lifestyle of Manhattan. With a quiet and low-key atmosphere, the island offers a peaceful escape for those seeking a break from the city's usual hustle and bustle. The island's location also offers stunning views of the New York City skyline and the East River, making it a perfect spot for scenic walks and relaxation.
Visitors to Roosevelt Island can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the island's historic sites, such as the Smallpox Hospital and the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, to taking a stroll through the parks and gardens. The island's many pathways and walkways make it an ideal location for biking, jogging, or simply taking a leisurely walk. Additionally, the Roosevelt Island Tram offers a unique and convenient way to travel to and from the island, providing stunning views of the city and the river along the way. Overall, Roosevelt Island is a hidden gem in the heart of New York City, offering a peaceful and scenic escape from the city's usual hustle and bustle.
6. Little Island
A unique urban oasis blending nature and art
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Little Island, the newest addition to Hudson River Park, is a one-of-a-kind floating park that has captured the attention of many. Its distinctive architecture, reminiscent of a leaf floating on water, makes it a sight to behold. The construction process of Little Island is equally impressive, using over 280 tulip-shaped concrete columns to support the park, each one different from the others.
Getting to Little Island is a breeze, as it's just a 20-minute walk and train ride from Penn Station on 34th Street. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the various pathways and platforms that weave through the park, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline. The park also features an amphitheater for live performances, a playground, and several gardens, providing plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
Little Island, the newest addition to Hudson River Park, is a one-of-a-kind floating park that has captured the attention of many. Its distinctive architecture, reminiscent of a leaf floating on water, makes it a sight to behold. The construction process of Little Island is equally impressive, using over 280 tulip-shaped concrete columns to support the park, each one different from the others.
Getting to Little Island is a breeze, as it's just a 20-minute walk and train ride from Penn Station on 34th Street. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the various pathways and platforms that weave through the park, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline. The park also features an amphitheater for live performances, a playground, and several gardens, providing plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
7. Hart Island
A resting place for over one million individuals.
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Hart Island, situated in New York, is a significant site known as the City Cemetery, holding more than 800,000 unidentified or unclaimed bodies. This island is a stark reminder of the city's past and a memorial to those who were forgotten.
Visitors to Hart Island can embark on a profoundly moving tour, gaining access to the city's largest public burial ground. This island has served as the final resting place for over 1 million souls, many of whom died in poverty or were homeless. A tour of this island provides a journey through centuries of forgotten history.
Hart Island, situated in New York, is a significant site known as the City Cemetery, holding more than 800,000 unidentified or unclaimed bodies. This island is a stark reminder of the city's past and a memorial to those who were forgotten.
Visitors to Hart Island can embark on a profoundly moving tour, gaining access to the city's largest public burial ground. This island has served as the final resting place for over 1 million souls, many of whom died in poverty or were homeless. A tour of this island provides a journey through centuries of forgotten history.
8. City Island
A quaint escape with a New England vibe in NYC.
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City Island, an island located off the east coast of the Bronx, provides a stark contrast to the urban landscape of New York City. During summer weekends, this quiet island transforms into a bustling seaside resort, offering a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
The island boasts a charming, New England-style town with a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the 1.5-mile strip filled with an array of restaurants serving delectable fresh seafood and locally popular drinks. The town's quaint streets and beautiful waterfront make for a perfect setting to relax and unwind.
City Island, an island located off the east coast of the Bronx, provides a stark contrast to the urban landscape of New York City. During summer weekends, this quiet island transforms into a bustling seaside resort, offering a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
The island boasts a charming, New England-style town with a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the 1.5-mile strip filled with an array of restaurants serving delectable fresh seafood and locally popular drinks. The town's quaint streets and beautiful waterfront make for a perfect setting to relax and unwind.
9. Randalls and Wards Islands
A green oasis in the heart of New York City
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Randall's and Wards Islands, located in New York City, have served as drop-off points for undesirable items and individuals from the city for centuries. Throughout history, orphans, smallpox victims, the criminally insane, and juvenile delinquents have all resided on this isolated strip of land. Despite its grim past, the islands have been transformed into a beautiful park, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and connect with nature.
Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a larger group, Randall's and Wards Islands are a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers plenty of open space, making it an ideal location for picnics, sports, and other activities. Additionally, the islands' parks and gardens provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a scenic bike ride, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the city skyline. Overall, Randall's and Wards Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of New York City's lesser-known gems.
Randall's and Wards Islands, located in New York City, have served as drop-off points for undesirable items and individuals from the city for centuries. Throughout history, orphans, smallpox victims, the criminally insane, and juvenile delinquents have all resided on this isolated strip of land. Despite its grim past, the islands have been transformed into a beautiful park, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and connect with nature.
Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a larger group, Randall's and Wards Islands are a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers plenty of open space, making it an ideal location for picnics, sports, and other activities. Additionally, the islands' parks and gardens provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a scenic bike ride, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the city skyline. Overall, Randall's and Wards Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of New York City's lesser-known gems.
10. Wellesley Island
A nature lover's paradise in the Thousand Islands.
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Wellesley Island State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The park's vast expanse offers visitors the opportunity to connect with nature and explore its many wonders. With multiple hiking trails, visitors can discover the island's unique flora and fauna while taking in breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
Camping at Wellesley Island State Park is an unforgettable experience. The park offers a range of camping options, from tent sites to cabins, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you're an experienced camper or new to the outdoors, the park's peaceful atmosphere and picturesque scenery make it an ideal spot for a camping trip. Fishing enthusiasts will also be pleased to know that the park offers excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species available in the St. Lawrence River.
Wellesley Island holds a special place in many hearts, including those who have had the privilege of spending time there during their childhood. The island's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for creating cherished memories with family and friends. Whether you're exploring the park's many hiking trails, casting a line in the St. Lawrence River, or simply taking in the stunning views, Wellesley Island is a truly magical place that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Wellesley Island State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The park's vast expanse offers visitors the opportunity to connect with nature and explore its many wonders. With multiple hiking trails, visitors can discover the island's unique flora and fauna while taking in breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
Camping at Wellesley Island State Park is an unforgettable experience. The park offers a range of camping options, from tent sites to cabins, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you're an experienced camper or new to the outdoors, the park's peaceful atmosphere and picturesque scenery make it an ideal spot for a camping trip. Fishing enthusiasts will also be pleased to know that the park offers excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species available in the St. Lawrence River.
Wellesley Island holds a special place in many hearts, including those who have had the privilege of spending time there during their childhood. The island's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for creating cherished memories with family and friends. Whether you're exploring the park's many hiking trails, casting a line in the St. Lawrence River, or simply taking in the stunning views, Wellesley Island is a truly magical place that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
11. Dark Island
12. South Brother Island
13. Mill Rock
14. Hart Island