
Best Train Journeys Around the World in Staten Island, New York, United States
1. Staten Island Ferry
Experience a free train ride with stunning city views. Connects Staten Island to Manhattan.
- City Scenery: Offers panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor, and the Manhattan skyline.
- Free Ride: Provides a cost-effective way to explore the city from land and sea.
- Flexible Timings: Operates 24/7, allowing for flexible travel times.
2. St. George Terminal
Start your train journey at this modern station, offering convenient access to various transportation options.
- Transportation Hub: Connects to the Staten Island Ferry, NYC Subway, and local buses.
- Modern Amenities: Features comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and food vendors.
- Accessible Design: Designed for easy navigation by people with disabilities.
3. New York Wheel
Ride the tallest Ferris wheel in North America for breathtaking views of New York City.
- City Scenery: Offers a unique perspective of iconic NYC landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline.
- Nighttime Views: Ideal for evening rides to see the city lit up after dark.
- Accessibility: All cabins are wheelchair accessible and equipped with audio descriptions for visually impaired visitors.
4. SNY Railroad
Hop aboard a vintage train for a scenic tour through Staten Island's green spaces.
- Historical Preservation: Operates restored, early 20th-century trains on a preserved rail line.
- Natural Beauty: Offers stunning views of the island's parks and waterfronts.
- Educational Experience: Provides insight into Staten Island's rail history and local ecosystems.
5. The Blue Hill Trolley Line
Step back in time aboard a restored trolley car for a journey through Staten Island's history.
- Historical Preservation: Operates vintage trolleys on a line that dates back to the early 20th century.
- Local Culture: Stops at historic sites, cultural attractions, and neighborhoods along the way.
- Accessible Design: All trolleys are wheelchair accessible and equipped with bike racks.
6. The Conference House
Visit this historic site by train for a glimpse into American history.
- Historical Significance: Hosted the final negotiation between British and American representatives before the Revolutionary War.
- Scenic Landscape: Situated on a picturesque bluff overlooking Raritan Bay.
- Guided Tours: Offers informative guided tours and educational programs.
7. The Lyndhurst Mansion
Explore the grandeur of this Gothic Revival mansion by train.
- Architectural Masterpiece: An exceptional example of Gothic Revival architecture, boasting 67 rooms and 123 acres of grounds.
- Historical Significance: Once home to prominent families in American history, including the Morgans and the Goelets.
- Garden Tours: Features various themed gardens, including an English Rose Garden and a Japanese Strolling Garden.
8. The Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Experience art, history, and beautiful gardens by train.
- Cultural Diversity: Home to multiple museums showcasing various cultures, including Chinese, Italian, and Greek.
- Botanical Wonders: Features over a dozen themed gardens, including the Fragrance Garden for visually impaired visitors.
- Historical Preservation: Houses several historic buildings, including the oldest cast iron building in the United States.
9. The Greenbelt Nature Center
Connect with nature on a train ride to this eco-friendly destination.
- Educational Programs: Offers various programs and workshops about local flora, fauna, and environmental conservation.
- Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Provides opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Accessible Design: Includes wheelchair-accessible trails, as well as sensory gardens for visually impaired visitors.
10. The Snug Harbor Seaport
Explore maritime history and enjoy waterfront views on a train ride to this unique destination.
- Maritime History: Features historic ships, exhibits, and programs about the island's seafaring past.
- Waterfront Views: Offers stunning views of Staten Island's waterfront, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Provides interactive exhibits and programs for kids to learn about maritime culture.
11. The Conference House Park
Enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views at this historic park by train.
- Scenic Landscape: Offers panoramic views of Raritan Bay and the surrounding wetlands.
- Outdoor Activities: Features hiking trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching opportunities.
- Historical Significance: Located near the site of the final negotiation between British and American representatives before the Revolutionary War.
12. The Clove Lakes Park
Relax in nature at this peaceful park accessible by train.
- Natural Beauty: Features two interconnected lakes, surrounded by forests and wetlands.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Recreational Activities: Features walking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities.
13. The Silver Lake Park
Enjoy outdoor activities and stunning views at this expansive park by train.
- Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline.
- Outdoor Activities: Features a variety of recreational facilities, including tennis courts, ballfields, and playgrounds.
- Historical Significance: Sites of significance include Fort Wadsworth and the Michael J. Petrides Memorial Field.
14. The South Beach Psychiatric Center Ruins
Explore abandoned architecture and learn about Staten Island's history on a train ride.
- Historical Significance: Once the largest psychiatric facility in the United States, now a hauntingly beautiful ghost town.
- Urban Exploration: Offers unique photographic opportunities and an eerie glimpse into the past.
- Accessible Design: Mostly open areas, making it accessible for exploration on foot.
15. The Freshkills Park
Witness the transformation of a landfill into an eco-friendly park by train.
- Environmental Restoration: A former landfill is being transformed into a public park with a focus on sustainability.
- Scenic Landscape: Offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and city skyline.
- Recreational Activities: Features walking trails, educational programs, and community events.