Governors Island National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

A Silent Sentinel in New York Harbor

For more than two centuries, the military communities on Governors Island were woven into the intricate social, political and economic tapestry that is New York City. From 1776-1996, Governors Island stood as a silent sentinel in New York Harbor, and provided protection of the ideals represented by the Statue of Liberty across the Bay. We invite you to explore the Island's history as it evolved from colonial outpost to regional administrative center for the U.S. Army and Coast Guard.

National Park Rangers and volunteers provide programs about Governors Island and its history.

Governors Island Opens Saturday, May 30 for the 2009 Summer Season

A variety of National Park Ranger led programs, self-guided activities and lecture series are offered throughout the open season. Joining a park ranger or National Park volunteer is an excellent way to learn more about the history of Governors Island. For more information about ranger programs and other summer activities, call 212.825.3045 or visit www.nps.gov/gois for the latest updates.

Click on the links below for program and ferry schedules.

Guided Programs

Living History Events

National Park Service Lecture Series

Friday Morning Summer Programs for Kids -June 12 - August 14

Special VIP (Volunteer-In-Park) Programs
Click here to learn more.

2009 Program Schedule May - October.

During the open season, your visit to Governors Island will begin with an eight minute ferry ride on The Coursen.

For Other Programming Opportunities on Governors Island, Please Visit These Websites

Our partners also plan exciting and family-friendly activities during the open season. Click on the links below for more information.

The Governors Island Preservation and Education Corporation (GIPEC)

The Governors Island Alliance

General Management Plan

The Final General Management Plan (GMP) for Governors Island National Monument was released April 9, 2009.

For more information, click here.

Fourth of July 2009

Introductory Walking Tours

Join a National Park Ranger or Volunteer for 45 minute introductory tours of the island's history.

When: 10:25, 12:25, 2:25
Where: Tours will meet at Soisson's Dock at the top of the hill.

Star - Spangled Birds for Kids
Ages 8 - 12.

Children and their parents/guardians are invited to explore the birds of Governors Island. Learn the foundations of birding and how you can apply this new skill at home. A limited supply of binoculars will be available to borrow or you can use your own.

When: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: Meet at Fort Jay

Click here for flyer.

Ranger's Choice

Meet with a National Park Ranger for a 45 minute special walking tour that will examine an aspect of Governors Island history in depth.
Topics may include...

"Life of a Soldier"

“The Battle for New York and Governors Island”

“Prisoners of War”

“The Women’s Army Corps: A Brief History of Female Pioneers in the Army”

“Faugh a Ballagh - The Irish in Union Blue 1840 - 1865”

When: 11:25, 1:25, 3:25
Where: Tours will meet at Soisson's Dock at the top of the hill.

Please Note: Governors Island will not be available for fireworks viewing. The final boat off the island is 7:00 PM.

Please click on the link below for fireworks viewing alternatives.

Click Here for Fireworks Viewing Information.

Write to

Governors Island National Monument
10 South Street - Slip 7
New York, NY 10004-1921

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(212) 825-3045

Media Relations
(212) 668-2251

Fax

(212) 825-3055

Climate

New York enjoys four distinct seasons and the weather is known to be highly variable. During our open Summer Season, you can experience days that can be pleasant or hot and humid with a chance of thunderstorms. Please check the daily forecast before your visit.
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