How to Spend a Day on Governors Island: A Jersey City Mom’s Travel Guide

If you’re looking for the ultimate "getaway" feeling without actually leaving the harbor, Governors Island is it. It’s 172 acres of car-free bliss, historic forts, and some of the best views of Lady Liberty you can find. For a Jersey City mom, it’s remarkably accessible and feels like a true vacation from the urban hustle.

Here’s exactly how to get there and how to make the most of your day!

How to Get There from Downtown Jersey City

The journey is half the fun! There isn’t a direct ferry from JC yet, but the transfer is very easy.

1. The "Path to Ferry" Route (Fastest)

• PATH: Take the PATH from Exchange Place or Grove Street to World Trade Center.

• Walk/Subway: It’s a pleasant 15-minute walk down to the Battery Maritime Building (10 South Street). If the kids are tired, hop on the 1 train at WTC Cortlandt to South Ferry.

• The Ferry: The Trust for Governors Island ferry leaves from the big green building next to the Staten Island Ferry terminal.

• Cost: $5 round-trip for adults; children 12 and under are FREE.

• Pro-Tip: Ferries are free for everyone on Saturdays and Sundays before 11:00 AM!

2. The Scenic Route (Double Ferry)

• Ferry: Take the NY Waterway from Paulus Hook to Pier 11 / Wall Street.

• The Transfer: It’s a 5-minute walk south along the water to the Governors Island ferry terminal. This is my personal favorite because the kids love being on the water twice!

Your Perfect Day Itinerary

• Morning: Exploration & Adventure Start at the Hammock Grove. There are 50 red hammocks—grab one early before they fill up! Right next door is the Hammock Grove Play Area, which is great for younger kids. For the thrill-seekers, head straight to Slide Hill. It has four slides, including a 57-foot-long curving slide—the longest in NYC!

• Lunch: The Food Crawl You don’t need to pack a heavy cooler! Head to Liggett Terrace, the island’s food hub and get the Fish Tacos at Little Eva’s (they are massive!) or a Neapolitan-style pie from Pizza Yard.

• Afternoon: History & High Views Walk (or rent a bike from Blazing Saddles) up to Outlook Hill. It’s 70 feet high and gives you a 360-degree view of the harbor. Then, let the kids explore Fort Jay and Castle Williams. They feel like real-life castles and are perfect for a little history lesson disguised as play.

• Late Afternoon: One Last Treat Before heading back to the ferry, grab a gourmet popsicle from People’s Pops or a cold brew from Joe Coffee.

Mom’s Essential Packing List

• Sunscreen & Hats: There is more sun than shade on the southern half of the island

• Scooters/Bikes: The island is car-free! Bring yours on the ferry for free or rent them there.

• Water Bottles: There are plenty of refill stations.

• Waiver for "The Yard": If you have older kids (5+), they will want to play at The Yard, a unique "adventure playground." Save time by filling out the waiver online before you arrive.