In Search of the Hidden Treasures of Atlantis

When visiting the Southern most tip of Manhattan, hop aboard the free (yes free!) Staten Island Ferry and prepare to witness the unexpected. As you pass a stone’s throw from Governor’s Island and the Statue of Liberty look back toward Manhattan. From this vantage point the buildings seem to explode out from the water like a modern day Atlantis.

Between the circuses of birds signifying your arrival and St. George/New Brighton historic district welcoming you, landing on Staten Island is a ceremonial affair. The differences between here and Manhattan are immediate and drastic. So drastic in fact, that you may be convinced that you have just traveled to a completely different country and not just to another borough. The small town feel, combined with a horizon filled with skyscrapers, makes visiting Staten Island a truly unique experience that borders on the surreal.

Known as the Borough of Parks, Staten Island offers visitors plenty to see and do. One of the island’s highlights is Fort Wadsworth located on the northeastern tip of the island. Easily accessible by either bus or taxi, prepare to take a journey through time as you bear witness to one of America’s oldest and most historic military installations.

Taking a tour of the fortifications provides an exceptional look at part of the critical system that protected New York Harbor for centuries. Walk through its catacomb-like passageways and see what it was like to be a defender in the days of old. Envision the poor souls of the opposition who would have most certainly met a fatal end if they were ever to try and force their way toward the fortresses. Was that the ghost of a solider or just a figment of your imagination? You decide.

Just down the hill from Fort Tompkins sits Battery Weed on the shoreline. Its strategic location, which overlooks 2 states and 3 boroughs, offers some of the best views of the city. The U-shaped structure of this 4-story stronghold is exquisite and represents a true testament to military ingenuity and architecture. Facing towards the water, you can feel the menacing presence it caused to all those who passed under its watchful eyes.

Staten Island Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area

A walk back in time isn’t the only thing Fort Wadsworth and its’ surrounding areas have to offer. The Staten Island Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area, which extends along the south shore of the island includes life guarded swimming beaches, fishing areas, a marina, sand dunes, picnic areas, athletic fields, uplands of grasses, and fresh water wetlands. During the spring and summer seasons it plays hosts to a number of events and activities for the whole family to enjoy. From model plane flying to stargazing and beach combing, bring your sense of adventure and fulfill your spirit for the outdoors.

If you are looking to continue your journey through the days of old, stop off at the nearby Alice Austen House and step into the Victorian world of documentary photographer Alice Austen (1866-1952).

Full of spontaneous vitality, Ms. Austen took pictures with a passion and created one of the finest photographic records of turn-of-the-century American life. She was one of this country’s first women photographers to document the people, places and events of her time as they really were. Taking a look at the social life and colorful street life of 19th century New York is truly fascinating.

The Austen home and garden have been restored to their appearance during the 1890’s. A walk of the grounds with its rolling lawns and many flowering bushes along pebble covered paths is an absolute joy. Just don’t forget your parasol.

Another attraction worth visiting is the beautifully manicured parkland of Snug Harbor. Located west of the St. George ferry terminal, this once retirement home for sailors is now a cultivating center for the arts. Within the lush greenery of its 83-acres, space has been provided for contemporary art exhibits, theater recitals, outdoor sculptures and concerts.With its Botanical Garden, Children’s Museum, galleries and studios for up-and-coming artists, the annual Summer Sculpture Festival and many year-round events, Snug Harbor is definitely worth a look. For it is an artisan’s paradise and one of the best-kept secrets of New York City.

As you make your way back to Manhattan in the early twilight hours, sit back and enjoy the golden blue reflections of shimmering buildings on the bay. And with Lady Liberty looking on and winking skyscrapers that seems to say,  “Atlantis is alive and well!” you can thank Fort Wadsworth for making it all possible.

For More Information

Staten Island Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area

210 New York Avenue

Staten Island, NY 10305

Attention:

Fort Wadsworth Rangers

Or call (718) 354-4500

www.nps.gov/gate

Hours:

From dawn till dust

Visitor Center hours:

Wednesday through Sunday

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Getting There

From Staten Island Ferry Terminal:

Take the S51 bus to the park entrance on Bay Street (estimated time: 15 minutes)

By Auto From Brooklyn:

Use the lower level of the Verrazano Narrows Bridge and take the first exit after the toll to the park entrance

By Auto From New Jersey:

Take the Staten Island Expressway (Rt. 278) to the

Bay Street exit (last exit before the Verrazano Narrows Bridge).

Turn left at the light and follow this road to Bay Street and the park entrance.

Other Area Information

Alice Austen House

2 Hylan Boulevard

Staten Island, NY 10305

(718) 816-4506

Snug Harbor

1000 Richmond Terrance

Staten Island, NY 10301

(718) 448-2500

Places to Eat

Amelia’s

1277 Bay St.

(718) 727-1000

Offering a combination of Continental and Italian cuisine the atmosphere is fun and casual. With specialty items such as Tortalacci found no where else on the island, it is a favorite amongst the locals. So whether you are ordering a chef’s special or from the kid’s menu, these reasonably priced meals are sure to please.

Danny Blaine’s

1384 Bay St.

(718) 720-3254

Not your typical neighborhood tavern, Danny Blaine’s can cook up anything from a hamburger to a shell steak, a turkey club to a chicken parmesan dinner. The atmosphere is friendly and by the time you are ready to leave everyone will know your name.

R.H. Tugs

1115 Richmond Terrace

(718) 447-6369