Staten Island offers a unique mix of city waterfronts and green spaces. Hike forest trails, bike waterfront paths, paddle coastal waters, and enjoy peaceful escapes all within NYC’s five boroughs.
Staten Island offers a unique mix of city waterfronts and green spaces. Hike forest trails, bike waterfront paths, paddle coastal waters, and enjoy peaceful escapes all within NYC’s five boroughs.
Outdoor Adventure in Staten Island, New York
Staten Island provides outdoor lovers an accessible gateway to nature within New York City. With its blend of urban conveniences and natural landscapes, it offers a wide variety of activities across land and water.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Staten Island, New York special.
⌖ 9.02 milesVisit Luna Park at Coney Island in Brooklyn, NY for a day of thrills. Enjoy the Cyclone and Wonder Wheel, along with beachside fun. Family-friendly with amusement rides and sightseeing. Busy in summer.
⌖ 9.43 milesExplore Coney Island, a lively Brooklyn destination with iconic amusement rides and a bustling beach. Ideal for family-friendly beach relaxation, boardwalk strolls, and park thrills. Best visited in summer for its lively atmosphere.
★ 7⌖ 11.69 milesVisit the iconic Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island and explore Ellis Island. Accessible by ferry from New York City, this historical landmark is family-friendly and open year-round, offering educational exhibits and scenic views.
★ 4⌖ 12.98 milesExplore the Bay Shore Trail in Atlantic Highlands, NJ. Enjoy scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean on this family-friendly route ideal for trail running and bird watching. Visit in spring or fall to experience the peaceful atmosphere and vibrant avian population.
⌖ 14.08 milesExplore the iconic Vessel in Hudson Yards, New York City. This modern architectural landmark offers a unique urban experience with expansive views of the Manhattan skyline. Climb its 16 stories via 2,500 steps and discover the vibrant surroundings. Open year-round.
⌖ 14.28 milesExplore the Empire State Building in New York City, a top spot for history and panoramic views from the observatories. Open year-round and easily accessible, it's perfect for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
⌖ 14.82 milesExplore the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square, New York. Known for its iconic billboards and theater scenes, this cultural landmark offers endless sightseeing opportunities, perfect for photographers and urban explorers. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.
★ 1⌖ 17.62 milesVisit The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, a top medical institution known for its historic significance and modern architecture. Perfect for those interested in medical history and innovation, with year-round accessibility in an urban setting.
★ 7.5⌖ 21.88 milesEasyExplore Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a tranquil 7,700-acre sanctuary near Basking Ridge, NJ, with easy trails ideal for wildlife observation and photography. Best visited in spring and fall for diverse bird species.
★ 5.5⌖ 26.30 milesEasyShark River Park in Wall Township, NJ, offers easy hiking trails and river access with opportunities for fishing, biking, and wildlife watching. Visitors enjoy peaceful river views, family-friendly terrain, and seasonal wildflowers along mostly flat, well-maintained paths.
★ 6.5⌖ 28.09 milesEasyAvon Beach in Avon-By-The-Sea, NJ offers a calm, sandy shoreline ideal for beachcombing, beginner surfing, fishing on the jetty, and relaxed coastal walks. Easy access and family-friendly atmosphere make it perfect for a peaceful day by the Atlantic shore with seasonal mild crowds.
★ 6.5⌖ 28.11 milesEasyManasquan Reservoir in Howell Township, NJ features an easy 5-mile trail around a freshwater lake. Ideal for hiking, fishing, bird watching, and biking, it offers peaceful wildlife viewing and scenic water views. Best visited spring through fall with family-friendly paths and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Discover the top 15 adventure activities and curated experiences in Staten Island, New York, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Staten Island, New York.
An Education Department-led indoor lesson on the bridge’s history followed by a guided walk to the Brooklyn tower — a concise program that pairs interpretation with firsthand views.
⌖ 38.3 miA concise, practical guide to taking the historic North American AT‑6/SNJ “Texan” 20‑minute flight from the American Airpower Museum in Farmingdale—covering check‑in, safety rules, and what to expect aloft.
⌖ 16.1 miAn 80‑minute private visit to the oldest seltzer works in New York City that examines the craft, science, and cultural history of NYC seltzer.
⌖ 12.5 miA private 90‑minute photoshoot that walks SoHo’s historic cast‑iron blocks and can continue into Chinatown to produce timeless, story‑driven images.
⌖ 12.5 miA private 30‑minute photoshoot with a professional photographer through SoHo’s cast‑iron streets with an optional Chinatown extension—ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking timeless NYC images.
⌖ 35.6 miA 2-hour, 21+ evening cruise from Lake Hopatcong Cruises that pairs a buffet meal by local restaurants with panoramic lake views—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 11.7 miA concise 40–45 minute horse-drawn carriage tour through Central Park that delivers classic sights—Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields and more—and a clear practical guide for planning your visit.
⌖ 11.7 miA 1.5-hour, private hot-tub boat tour departing from Jersey City that pairs up-close skyline and landmark views with a festive seasonal setting—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 13.8 miA concise orientation for new members run by Hudson River Community Sailing in New York—this guide explains what the membership orientation covers and what to expect.
⌖ 11.5 miA day pass gives access to Seagate Beach Club in Brooklyn’s private, gated Seagate community—oceanfront sand, a pool, cabanas and dining—valid for ages 3+ between 10am and 9pm.
⌖ 11.7 miA compact, four‑hour City Tour with hotel pickup that guides adult travelers past the skyline’s landmark moments and lesser‑known urban touches—this guide distills what to expect and how the route flows.
⌖ 13.7 miOpen sailing lessons for sailors with basic skills that offer individualized instruction and a supportive, budget‑friendly three‑hour session.
⌖ 36.1 miChoose a 3–5 hour private charter aboard a premium Mastercraft for wakesurfing, cruising, and relaxed time on the lake—this guide tells you what to expect and how to pack for the day.
⌖ 35.2 miA private, captain-led charter from Point Pleasant offering 2- or 4-hour options for celebrations, snorkeling stops and sandbar lounging; this guide explains what the operator advertises and how to plan.
⌖ 38.1 miA guided, 90-minute stand-up paddleboard session led by a certified SUP Yoga & Fitness instructor that mixes cardio, core and balance while touring Oyster Bay Harbor.
Make the most of your visit to Staten Island, New York with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Staten Island, New York hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Staten Island, New York during the iconic Staten Island Greenbelt Half-Marathon. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Staten Island, New York during the iconic Historic Richmond Town Weekend Tours. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Staten Island, New York during the iconic Freshkills Park Community Clean-Up. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Staten Island, New York during the iconic Staten Island Arts Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Staten Island, New York during the iconic Staten Island Ferry 5k. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Staten Island, New York is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Ramapo Mountain State Forest offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, from hiking to fishing, amidst the serene landscape of northeastern New Jersey.
Harriman State Park, located in New York, offers a vast terrain of forested hills and valleys, making it a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.
Island Beach State Park in New Jersey offers pristine beaches, dunes, and maritime forests, providing a haven for outdoor explorers and nature lovers alike.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities along the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River.
Use the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan for easy access without a car.
Bring water and bug spray for wooded trail hikes.
Bike rentals available seasonally near popular parks and boardwalks.
Parking can be limited during weekends at major parks, arrive early.
Check tide schedules when planning paddling excursions.
Some trails are unpaved; wear sturdy footwear.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Staten Island, New York. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.