Staten Island NY, United States
- 468,730 people
- 17 places to visit
- 40.5795, -74.1502
Places to Visit (17)

Staten Island, one of New York City's five boroughs, is located to the southwest of Manhattan and is separated from New Jersey by the Arthur Kill and the Kill Van Kull. Covering an area of approximately 57.5 square miles, Staten Island is the least populated of the boroughs, with a population of around 480,000 residents as of the 2020 Census. The borough is accessible by various means, including the Staten Island Ferry, which offers free transportation between Staten Island and Manhattan, providing stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. The ferry is a vital link for commuters and a popular tourist attraction, operating 24 hours a day.
Staten Island offers a blend of suburban and urban environments, characterized by parks, beaches, and residential neighborhoods. The borough is home to the Staten Island greenbelt, a collection of parks and natural areas that provide numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and nature observation. Notable attractions include the Staten Island Zoo, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, and Historic Richmond Town, a living history village that showcases Staten Island’s past. The borough has a diverse demographic, with a significant number of Italian, Irish, and Asian communities contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. Staten Island's economy relies on various sectors, including retail, healthcare, and public administration, and is the only borough with a ferry system allowing for a unique connection to both New York City and New Jersey. Despite its calm nature compared to the bustling streets of Manhattan, Staten Island embodies a unique perspective of city life, blending urban features with natural beauty.
Facts about Staten Island
- Staten Island is the least populated of New York City's five boroughs, known for its suburban feel and extensive green spaces.
- The Staten Island Ferry, operational since 1905, offers free transportation between Staten Island and Manhattan, providing stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
- Staten Island is home to the Staten Island Zoo, which is the only zoo in the U.S. that has a dedicated 'American Alligator' exhibit.
- The borough is notable for its large landfill site, Fresh Kills, which was the world's largest landfill for many years before its closure; it is now being transformed into a sprawling park.
- Sandy Ground, one of Staten Island's neighborhoods, is recognized for its historical significance as one of the first free black communities in the United States.
- Staten Island features the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, a former maritime village that is now home to museums, performance spaces, and beautiful gardens.
- The borough has a unique history of having hosted the final resting place of many notable individuals, including famous composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein and actress Anna Moffo.
- Unlike the other New York City boroughs, Staten Island is often referred to as 'the forgotten borough' due to its less dense population and less integrated public transit options.
- The Staten Island Yankees, a minor league baseball team, play their home games at the Richmond County Bank Ballpark and have a dedicated local following.
- Every year, Staten Island hosts the Immunization Awareness Month health fairs, promoting vaccination awareness and health education for residents.