Governor's Island.

[stache]

I'm guessing there's a thread about this somewhere...(?) I went there this afternoon and it's well worth the trip. Lots of trees and lawns so even the young ones in your family would enjoy it if you bring along a ball for play. The Manhattan views aren't so hot but you can see Jersey City & Brooklyn quite well. You might want to bring a sandwich as the food offerings there didn't seem very good to me. I took a wrap :cool:. It took me approx 90 minutes to walk the perimeter and do a bit of gawking. I would say give yourself four hours including waiting time for the ferry etc. Or you could easily stay there all day and take a snooze on the grass!

[lofter1]

On Fridays at GI they have free bikes you can "borrow" (but you need to use a CC for deposit).

Shortens that 90-minute walk down to a brisk 30-minute ride.

More time for snoozing on the grass ;)

[stache]

I went back to do the bike thing today. They actually want a driver's license, or similar id. They do not want a credit card for the free period, which is an hour.

[Triborough]

My biggest problem with Governors Island is all the neat abandoned stuff is in the off limits area. Otherwise it is worth the trip.

The National Parks Service does a tour. I did it last year and did a write up for Gothamist (http://gothamist.com/2007/09/01/gothamist_visit_1.php).

Also, you can bring your own bike.

[stache]

but it's worth the trip just for a little peace & quiet. :cool: Also I found good Manhattan views at the water side of Castle William and by the bike rental place. ;)