FDR Boardwalk and Beach
Ride the free Staten Island Ferry for iconic views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline, then explore the relaxing FDR Boardwalk and Beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
FDR Boardwalk and Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the free Staten Island Ferry for iconic views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline, then explore the relaxing FDR Boardwalk and Beach.
"The Staten Island Ferry is a must-do for its incredible, free views of Lady Liberty and the city!"
🎯 Ride the FREE Ferry!
The Staten Island Ferry is completely free and offers amazing Statue of Liberty & skyline views.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Stand on the outer decks for unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Staten Island Ferry Ride
Manhattan to Staten Island
Iconic, free ferry offering breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and NYC skyline.
Manhattan Skyline Views
From the ferry
Capture postcard-perfect panoramas of Lower Manhattan's impressive architecture.
Statue of Liberty Up Close
From the ferry
Get a fantastic, unobstructed view of Lady Liberty without the ticket price.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Views
Beyond the Ferry: Explore Staten Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride the FREE Ferry!
The Staten Island Ferry is completely free and offers amazing Statue of Liberty & skyline views.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Stand on the outer decks for unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan.
🚶 Explore Staten Island
Don't just ride the ferry; explore local food spots on Staten Island for a unique experience.
⏰ Check Ferry Schedule
Ferries run frequently, but check the schedule for the most up-to-date times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride the FREE Ferry!
The Staten Island Ferry is completely free and offers amazing Statue of Liberty & skyline views.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Stand on the outer decks for unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan.
🚶 Explore Staten Island
Don't just ride the ferry; explore local food spots on Staten Island for a unique experience.
⏰ Check Ferry Schedule
Ferries run frequently, but check the schedule for the most up-to-date times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the free and spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline offered by the Staten Island Ferry. The boardwalk provides a pleasant coastal escape. Some find Staten Island itself to have limited attractions beyond the ferry, but it's appreciated for its local feel.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Staten Island Ferry terminal in Manhattan is easily accessible via subway. Take the 1 train to South Ferry, the R or W trains to Whitehall Street, or the 4 or 5 trains to Bowling Green.
Yes, the Staten Island Ferry is completely free to ride in both directions. It's a fantastic way to see the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline without spending a dime.
The ferry ride itself takes approximately 25 minutes each way. You can disembark in Staten Island and catch the next ferry back to Manhattan.
Absolutely! The ferry provides excellent, unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty as it sails past. It's a popular and budget-friendly alternative to paid boat tours.
The FDR Boardwalk and Beach is located on Staten Island. After taking the Staten Island Ferry, you can use local bus routes or a taxi/rideshare to reach the boardwalk area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required for the Staten Island Ferry. It is a free public transportation service.
Access to the FDR Boardwalk and Beach itself is generally free. Parking may have associated fees depending on the specific lot.
The Staten Island Ferry operates 24/7, with ferries running approximately every 15-30 minutes depending on the time of day.
Typically, public beaches like those along the FDR Boardwalk do not have an admission fee.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photos. Weekday mornings and late afternoons tend to have fewer crowds, making for cleaner shots.
The boardwalk itself, with its ocean views, and any piers or unique architectural elements offer great photo opportunities.
While the FDR Boardwalk is on Staten Island, the primary views of the Statue of Liberty are from the Staten Island Ferry. The boardwalk offers coastal scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once on Staten Island, the FDR Boardwalk and Beach offers space for children to run around and play. It's a great opportunity for them to experience a different side of NYC, away from the typical tourist crowds. Consider packing beach toys if visiting during warmer months.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the ferry, exploring the FDR Boardwalk and Beach offers a free way to enjoy the coast. Pack your own food and drinks to further minimize expenses. Staten Island also has local eateries that can be more affordable than those in Manhattan.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Staten Island Ferry Experience
To make the most of your ride, aim for the outer decks. The views are most spectacular when you're not obstructed by other passengers. While the ferry itself is the main draw for many, remember that it's a functional commuter route, so be mindful of fellow passengers. The journey provides a unique perspective on the city's grandeur and its relationship with the water.
Pro-tip: While the ferry is free, consider exploring Staten Island itself after your ride. Some TikTok creators highlight finding local eateries and hidden gems, offering a glimpse into a less-touristed side of NYC.
Exploring the FDR Boardwalk and Beach
Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling along the boardwalk. The beach itself is perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming (during season), or simply relaxing by the water. It's a great spot to escape the urban hustle and enjoy a more laid-back pace.
While the primary draw for many visiting Staten Island is the ferry, the boardwalk provides a pleasant diversion. It's a reminder of the diverse landscapes New York City encompasses, from towering skyscrapers to serene coastlines.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit