Things To Do In Staten Island, New York City, New York, 5 Day Travel Itinerary, Brief History, Weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites, Famous Landmarks, Best Food Restaurants, Night Life

August 8, 2024

Brief History

Staten Island, the often overlooked borough of New York City, boasts a rich history. Initially settled by Native Americans, it later became a Dutch colony. The island played a significant role during the American Revolution. Today, it’s a diverse community offering a unique blend of urban and suburban living.

Weather

Staten Island experiences all four distinct seasons:

Winter: Cold and often snowy, with temperatures typically ranging from the low 20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit.
Spring: Mild with occasional showers, temperatures gradually rise from the 40s to the 70s Fahrenheit.
Summer: Hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit.
Fall: Pleasant with colorful foliage, temperatures cool down from the 70s to the 50s Fahrenheit.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Take the free Staten Island Ferry for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
Visit the Staten Island Zoo, home to a variety of animals.
Explore the historic Richmond Town, a living history museum showcasing the borough’s past.

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Hike or bike through the Greenbelt, a vast parkland offering diverse ecosystems.
Visit the Snug Harbor Cultural Center for art exhibitions, performances, and botanical gardens.
Enjoy a picnic at Clove Lakes Park, a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.

Day 3: Beach and Relaxation

Spend a day at the beach at South Beach or Midland Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Enjoy a sunset cruise on the New York Harbor.

Day 4: Food and Shopping

Explore the diverse culinary scene of Staten Island, with a focus on Italian cuisine.
Visit Empire Outlets, a shopping mall with various stores and restaurants.
Catch a minor league baseball game at the Staten Island Yankees stadium.

Day 5: Farewell and Ferry Ride

Take another ferry ride to Manhattan for a final glimpse of the city skyline.
Visit the National Lighthouse Museum before departing.

Bike Paths

Staten Island offers several bike paths, including the Greenbelt and the waterfront promenade.

Campsites

While there are no traditional campgrounds on Staten Island, you can enjoy camping experiences at nearby state parks like Harriman State Park and Bear Mountain State Park.

Famous Landmarks

Staten Island Ferry
Staten Island Zoo
Historic Richmond Town
Snug Harbor Cultural Center
Greenbelt Nature Center
Fort Wadsworth

Best Food Restaurants

Staten Island is renowned for its Italian cuisine. Some popular restaurants include Denino’s Pizzeria, L&B Spumoni Gardens, and Joe’s Italian Restaurant.