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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.
Within the interactive visitor center you will
find a wealth of information. Hear a Commander bark orders during
an audio simulation of cannon fire. Imagine the wind upon your face
as you visualize being a ship passing through New York Harbor at
varies points in time. Learn about the changing history of artillery
and varies measures and countermeasures that have taken place. A
trip to Fort Wadsworth has something for everyone. It is an experience
that will titillate the senses and provides a look at the many facets
of the American military throughout history.
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
Offering unique surroundings, R.H. Tugs is located
on the waterfront along the Kill Van Kull Channel. As you enjoy
your meal, watch tugboats and mammoth-sized commercial vessels pass you by.
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