Staten Island is one of New York City’s five boroughs, and it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a mix of urban and suburban experiences. From the Staten Island Ferry to the Staten Island Zoo, there’s plenty to keep you busy on this New York City borough.
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Introduction
Staten Island is one of the five boroughs of New York City, in the U.S. state of New York. The borough is coextensive with Richmond County, and until 1975 was officially named the Borough of Richmond. Staten Island is separated from New Jersey by the Arthur Kill and the Kill Van Kull, and from the rest of New York by New York Bay. With a 2013 Census-estimated population of 474,558, Staten Island is the least populated of the boroughs but is the third-largest in land area at 58 square miles (150 km2).
The borough is sometimes referred to as “the forgotten borough” because of its sometimes perceived lesser status compared to Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens; Staten Islanders sometimes refer to themselves as “islanders.”
Location
Staten Island is one of the five boroughs of New York City. It is located in the southwest part of the city, and is separated from Manhattan by the Hudson River. With a population of about 470,000, it is the least populous borough of New York City.
Staten Island is a borough of contrasts. It is home to some of the most affluent neighborhoods in New York City, as well as some of the poorest. It is a borough of parks and open spaces, but also a borough of industry and commercial activity. Staten Island is connected to Manhattan by ferry service and by bridges to Brooklyn and New Jersey.
History
The area now occupied by Staten Island was probably inhabited by Native Americans who were part of the Munsee group of the Lenape. The first recorded European contact with Staten Island was made by Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano in 1524. In 1609, Henry Hudson, an English explorer employed by the Dutch East India Company, anchored his ship the Halve Maen (Half Moon) in Marble Harbor on the island’s southwest shore.
In 1776, during the American Revolutionary War, a British fleet attacked and occupied nearby New York City. Staten Island was subsequently fortified and used as a base by British troops throughout the war. Following the British occupation, many of the island’s residents (Loyalists) flee to Canada or other parts of British North America. After the war ended in 1783, Staten Island once again became home to farms and small rural villages.
In 1898, Staten Island was consolidated into the City of New York together with Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. The borough now has a population of over 470,000 people and is a thriving residential community with a diverse mixture of cultures. Although it is geographically close to New York City, Staten Island has a unique history and identity that makes it worth exploring.
Things to Do
Staten Island is home to a number of museums, landmarks, and parks that are perfect for a day trip or a longer vacation. Here are some of the best things to do on Staten Island:
Visit the Staten Island Museum: The Staten Island Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in New York City. It features a wide variety of exhibitions on Staten Island history and culture.
Explore Historic Richmond Town: Richmond Town is a living history museum that recreates life in a 19th-century American town. Visitors can tour historic homes, shops, and other buildings, and watch demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Visit the St. George Theatre: The St. George Theatre is a historic theatre that first opened its doors in 1929. Today, it hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, dance shows, and comedy acts.
Take a Walk or Bike Ride Through Clove Lakes Park: Clove Lakes Park is one of Staten Island’s largest parks. It features freshwater lakes, hiking trails, baseball fields, and more.
Explore the Conference House: The Conference House is a historic house that was the site of the 1776 peace conference between Benjamin Franklin and Lord Howe. Today, it is open for tours and houses a museum about the American Revolution.
Conclusion
Now that you know a little bit more about Staten Island, it’s time to start planning your trip! Whether you’re interested in exploring the borough’s rich history, checking out its unique attractions, or simply relaxing on its beautiful beaches, Staten Island has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!