OK I know it has been awhile , but between school politics and graduation, I have been quite busy. Well I am still going to Australia next week Thursday for 10 days but I also decided to vacation in Brooklyn and the five boroughs. My first venture was to Governor's Island during my godson, Ryan, birthday. I have never been there before but it was such a beautiful weekend (the beautiful weekend we had , June 6th & 7th) that I woke Jon up at 11am and said let's go. Our best friends Rodney and LaShawn packed up the kids, LaShawn's Dad, Drew, met up with us in the city, and off we went to catch the ferry.
Governor's Island is open for the entire weekend starting on Fridays. The free ferry leaves hourly from the Maritime Terminal, which is to the left of the Staten Island Ferry terminal. The best way to get to this area is to take the N/R to Whitehall Street/South Ferry or the 1/9 to South Ferry. On Saturdays, there are ferries that leave every hour our on the hour from Fulton's Landing in Brooklyn. When I try it out next time I will report about that experience.
Once we reached the terminal there was a line that stretched all the way outside and persons who had bicycles were able to enter the ferry via a different entrance. We went through a security checkpoint where they made sure you didn't have any alcohol, pets or weapons. After that it was off to the ferry for a seven minute ride to the island.
Funny thing we noticed on this voyage was that there were some individuals dressed as if there from the 1920's. Then I remembered I read earlier on the website that there was going to be a 1920's Jazz Band and dance on the island. Well I know we would see it in passing because my crew was just interested in having a relaxing picnic. It is about a 15 minute walk from the boat to the main area and as we were walking we saw many people on their bikes and a variety of 19th century style homes and buildings. Because we had the kiddies we eventually caught a tram which took us to the picnic point that was on the other side of the island. We found a great spot and called it ours.
Pluses : You can bring your own bike or rent one for the day for $20. There are even two- and four-seater bikes, but they may cost you more. If you are lucky to visit on Fridays you can rent a bike for free.You can bring anything onto the island except alcohol, drugs, pets, or weapons.
WARNING: The public restrooms are port-a-potties but they are surprisingly clean.
There are a few food vendors on the island and a West Indian woman who has a tent with food. You must have cash to pay for everything you buy on the island because there are no banks or ATM's on the island.
The last ferry for home leaves at 7pm.
All in all, this was a great day trip that was FREE (except for the cost of food and train fare). We saw beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the bridges. Ryan enjoyed playing football with his Dad and trying to fly a kite with his Uncle Jon. Rachel enjoyed herself by getting her tan, and the boys relaxed while the women just soaked up the air. Can't wait to get back , I just need the Sun to come back.
