20 Free Things To Do In Staten Island New York

The Sandy Ground Historical Society and Museum is dedicated to conserving and sharing the history and heritage of the Sandy Ground community. One of the best things to do in Staten Island, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited free African-American settlements in the United States. 

This museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, documents, and memorabilia related to the Sandy Ground community, offering insights into its past. It tells the story of these pioneering families and their contributions to local and national history.

Do check their website for opening hours, any special exhibitions, or days when admission is free.

Address: 1538 Woodrow Rd

The Staten Island Ferry provides free transportation between Staten Island and Manhattan. It operates 24/7, making it a convenient and budget-friendly way to enjoy incredible views of New York Harbor and some of the most famous landmarks.

It is a popular choice for travelers looking to experience the magnificence of the harbor without the cost of a dedicated harbor tour. It's particularly stunning during sunset.

As you sail across the harbor, you'll have excellent opportunities to take photos of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Manhattan skyline, and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.

Tappen Park is a historic and vibrant public park that serves as a central gathering place and a hub for community activities.

The park is situated in the heart of Stapleton, which is known for its historic architecture and cultural diversity. It's easily accessible by public transportation and is a short walk from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal.

Address: Bay St

Tappen Park offers a variety of amenities and features, including:

• Green Space
• Playground
• Seating
• Performance Space
• Art Installations
• Events
• Farmers' Market

The New York Chinese Scholar's Garden is an authentic classical Chinese garden located within the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. It's an ideal place to relax, meditate, or merely enjoy the beauty of nature and traditional Chinese architecture.

It features elements such as meandering pathways, serene koi-filled ponds, waterfalls, authentic Chinese plants, pavilions, and intricately designed rocks.

There is usually an admission fee charged, but you can access this property for free during select hours and special events.

Address: 1000 Richmond Terrace

Seaside Wildlife Nature Park is one of New York City's most inventive playgrounds. It is also home to waterfront splendor and idyllic wildlife. It is surrounded by nearly 20 acres of picturesque wilderness.

The playground here is entirely nautical-themed, with a lighthouse, play units, and a shark to climb on that resembles the Staten Island Ferry. The centerpiece is a big shipwreck-themed play feature.

Address: Nelson Avenue & Tennyson Dr

The Staten Island Greenbelt is a vast and beautiful natural area that offers a peaceful escape into nature within the city. It encompasses over 2,800 acres of protected natural land.

The Greenbelt is a combination of forests, wetlands, meadows, and open spaces, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. They also offer educational programs, guided hikes, and nature-related events for visitors of all ages.

Address: 700 Rockland Ave

Staten Island has a growing and vibrant street art scene. Local artists and organizations contribute to the creation of murals, graffiti art, and other forms of public art throughout the borough. 

Some of the places and events with street art are:

• St. George and Stapleton Neighborhoods
• The LUMEN Festival
• Art on the Terrace: Welling Court Mural Project

Do note that street art is ever-evolving, so what you see during one visit may be different from another. It's part of the charm of this vibrant and organic form of artistic expression.

The Staten Island Zoo is a family-friendly destination in New York that offers the opportunity to see a variety of animals and enjoy educational programs. You can see animals such as kangaroos, lemurs, snakes, otters, and a range of exotic and domestic species.

The zoo has a Children's Center, which includes a petting zoo and interactive exhibits designed for younger visitors. It also hosts educational programs to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.

There is an admission fee to enter the zoo, with discounts often available for children, seniors, and members. Do check their website to know more about the free admission days.

Address: 614 Broadway

The Richmond County Bank Ballpark is a baseball stadium home to the Staten Island Yankees. It is near the Staten Island Ferry Terminal and offers beautiful views of the harbor and the Manhattan skyline.

In addition to minor league baseball games, the ballpark hosts various events and promotions throughout the baseball season. These may include theme nights, fireworks displays, and special promotions for fans.

They also occasionally have free admission nights during Staten Island Yankees games.

Address: 75 Richmond Terrace

Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden is a cultural and botanical complex. It's a diverse and historic site that presents a spectrum of cultural, educational, and recreational experiences. The site features a variety of themed botanical gardens.

It is home to several cultural organizations, including the Staten Island Museum, the Staten Island Children's Museum, the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art, and the Noble Maritime Collection. 

While there may be admission fees for specific events or attractions within Snug Harbor, access to the grounds and some gardens is typically free.

Address: 1000 Richmond Terrace

The Alice Austen House Museum is a historic house dedicated to the life and work of Alice Austen, a pioneering American photographer. The house itself is a well-preserved example of Victorian architecture. It also features a lovely garden.

This museum in New York showcases Austen's life and photography through exhibits featuring her works, personal belongings, and the history of the place itself. You can see her cameras and photographs and learn about her contributions to the field of photography.

While the museum itself may have an admission fee, one can explore the outdoor areas and enjoy views of the harbor for free.

Address: 2 Hylan Boulevard

The Greenbelt Nature Center is a vast and beautiful natural area. The center's primary mission is to provide nature education and environmental programming for visitors. It provides easy access to the trails and outdoor spaces.

The Nature Center features interactive exhibits and displays that focus on the ecology, geology, and wildlife of the Greenbelt and Staten Island. The programs led by naturalists and environmental educators include guided nature walks, wildlife observations, birdwatching, and more.

Address: 700 Rockland Avenue

Silver Lake Park is a picturesque urban park in New York that offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The park is known for its natural beauty, featuring a lovely lake, rolling hills, mature trees, and walking paths.

The centerpiece of the park is the Silver Lake Reservoir. It provides a scenic backdrop for park visitors and serves as a habitat for waterfowl. It also has well-maintained walking and jogging paths that wind around the lake and offer pleasant views.

As there is no admission fee to enter Silver Lake Park, it is an accessible and budget-friendly destination for outdoor enjoyment.

Address: 1000 Clove Road

Visit some of the historic cemeteries in Staten Island as they provide insights into the borough's rich history and heritage. Some of them are:

• Moravian Cemetery
• St. Peter's Cemetery
• St. Andrew's Church Cemetery
• Frederick Douglass Memorial Park
• Ocean View Cemetery
• Sylvan Cemetery

These cemeteries offer a glimpse into Staten Island's past, with their diverse architectural styles, tombstone inscriptions, and the stories of the people buried there. They are not only places of remembrance but also valuable historical and cultural resources.

Conference House Park offers stunning views of Raritan Bay and the surrounding natural beauty. The centerpiece of the park is the Billop House, a historic 17th-century stone manor. The park has access to the sandy shores of Raritan Bay.

The park features beautifully landscaped gardens and well-maintained grounds. It's a lovely place for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere. It offers hiking trails that wind through the park's natural areas, providing opportunities for nature walks and exploration.

Address: 7455 Hylan Boulevard

Fort Wadsworth is a historic military installation with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. It is now a part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. It is open to the public and operates as an educational and recreational destination.

The fort has a visitor center where you can learn about its history, the role it played in various conflicts, and the natural features of the area. It offers stunning panoramic views of the New York Harbor, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty.

Admission to Fort Wadsworth is typically free.

Staten Island Borough Hall and St. George Theatre are two prominent cultural and historical landmarks.

St. George Theatre is a historic and beautifully restored theater that originally opened in 1929. The theater has a rich history as a venue for live performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts, and cultural events.

Staten Island Borough Hall is a historic government building that dates back to the late 19th century. The building's architecture is characterized by its grand columns, detailed facade, and prominent clock tower.

Historic Richmond Town is a living history village and museum that offers tourists a glimpse into the history and culture of Staten Island and early American life. It is one of the oldest historical societies in New York City.

The site has over 30 historic buildings, including houses, churches, schools, and commercial establishments, dating from the late 17th century to the early 20th century. These buildings have been relocated and restored to create a historic village environment.

It also includes a modern visitor center with exhibits, a museum shop, and resources for genealogical and historical research.

Address: 441 Clarke Ave

Staten Island Museum at Snug Harbor is an institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the natural and cultural history of Staten Island. Over the years, it has collected and curated a diverse array of artifacts, specimens, and artworks related to the island's history and natural environment.

The museum's collections cover a wide range of subjects, including natural history, art, and cultural artifacts. It houses an extensive collection of specimens, fossils, and geological items, as well as artwork, photographs, and historical objects related to Staten Island and the surrounding region.

Address: 1000 Richmond Terrace

South Beach and Midland Beach, two of the best beaches in NYC are neighboring and on the eastern shore. These are part of the Staten Island Beaches, collectively offering a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

South Beach offers stunning views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, which connects Staten Island to Brooklyn. It provides opportunities for various recreational activities, including sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, and beach volleyball. 

Midland Beach, situated north of South Beach, features a lengthy and well-maintained boardwalk stretching along the shoreline. It has playgrounds and recreational facilities suitable for families with children.