Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Staten Island, New York, United States

All Topics about Staten Island All Cities in United States

1. Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

A historic, tranquil oasis featuring an art museum and botanical gardens, once a home for retired sailors.

Historic Site: Offers a glimpse into Staten Island's maritime past.
Art Museum: Showcases works by American artists, particularly those associated with the Hudson River School.
Botanical Gardens: Hosts a variety of unique plant species in beautiful and serene outdoor settings.

A small, eclectic museum with collections focusing on local history, art, and science.

Local History Collection: Provides a deep dive into Staten Island's rich cultural heritage.
Art Gallery: Features works by local and regional artists, as well as some pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Natural Science Exhibits: Educates visitors about Staten Island's unique ecosystem and wildlife.

A historic military fortress with stunning views of New York Harbor, offering guided tours and educational programs.

Military History: Provides a fascinating look at Staten Island's role in U.S. defense strategy.
Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides who share the fort's rich history and significance.
Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking vistas of New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and Manhattan skyline.

A charming, privately-owned lighthouse that offers tours and a unique view of the Raritan Bay.

Private Lighthouse: One of the few remaining privately-owned lighthouses in the United States.
Historic Architecture: Features an original design that dates back to the late 19th century.
Tours and Photography Opportunities: Offers guided tours and opportunities for stunning waterfront photography.

A historic home turned museum dedicated to the pioneering female photographer, Alice Austen.

Women's History: Highlights the life and work of one of America's earliest and most influential female photographers.
Historic House Museum: Preserves Austen's home as it appeared during her lifetime, complete with original furniture and photography equipment.
Photography Workshops: Offers hands-on workshops and classes for photographers of all skill levels.

A historic mansion built in 1680, where the Treaty of Paris was almost signed, offering tours and educational programs.

Historic Site: Served as a significant location for negotiations between American colonists and British officials.
Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides who share the house's rich history and connections to key historical events.
Garden Tours: Offers guided tours of the beautiful, historic gardens surrounding the Conference House.

A unique museum dedicated to the shared history between Egypt and America, featuring artifacts and exhibits.

Egyptian Artifacts: Features a collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, many of which have never been seen outside of Egypt.
American-Egyptian Connections: Explores the fascinating connections between ancient Egypt and early American history.
Educational Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and educational resources for visitors of all ages.

A unique shop selling nautical antiques, maritime art, and ship models.

Nautical Antiques: Sells a wide variety of authentic maritime antiques, including navigational instruments, compasses, and ship models.
Maritime Art: Features works by local and regional artists inspired by the sea and maritime life.
Knowledgeable Staff: Staffed by experts who can help visitors understand the history and significance of each item.

A small but charming zoo featuring a variety of exotic animals, including some endangered species.

Exotic Animals: Offers the chance to see rare and unusual animals up close, such as snow leopards and Sumatran tigers.
Endangered Species Conservation: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species through breeding programs and educational initiatives.
Family-Friendly Activities: Provides fun and educational activities for children, including animal feedings, keeper talks, and scavenger hunts.

A interactive, hands-on museum designed for children under the age of 8, offering educational and fun exhibits.

Interactive Exhibits: Features a variety of interactive exhibits that encourage creativity, exploration, and learning.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs focused on science, art, and social studies.
Family-Friendly Activities: Provides fun and engaging activities for the whole family to enjoy together.

A beautiful, secluded nature preserve with walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching.

Walking Trails: Offers miles of peaceful walking trails through diverse ecosystems.
Birdwatching: Provides opportunities to observe and identify a variety of local bird species.
Serene and Secluded: A quiet, peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

An enchanting, privately-owned garden modeled after a Tuscan villa, featuring beautiful plants and statues.

Privately Owned Garden: One of the few remaining privately owned gardens open to the public.
Tuscan-Inspired Design: Features a stunning, authentic Tuscan villa design, complete with statues, fountains, and terraced gardens.
Beautiful Plants and Flowers: Showcases an extensive collection of rare and beautiful plants from around the world.

A nature center and education facility that offers guided hikes, wildlife observation, and educational programs.

Guided Hikes: Led by knowledgeable guides who share the natural history of the Greenbelt.
Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe a variety of local wildlife, including birds, deer, and foxes.
Educational Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and educational resources for visitors interested in learning more about the Greenbelt's ecosystem.

A vibrant marketplace featuring fresh local produce, artisanal food products, and unique crafts.

Fresh Local Produce: Offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local farm products.
Artisanal Food Products: Features locally made cheeses, breads, pastas, and other gourmet food items.
Unique Crafts: Showcases handmade crafts by local artists and artisans.

A unique, ghost-themed tour of Staten Island's historic sites and landmarks.

Ghost Themed: Focuses on the eerie and paranormal aspects of Staten Island's history.
Historic Sites and Landmarks: Visits a variety of historic sites and landmarks, including Fort Wadsworth, The Conference House, and The Alice Austen House.
Narrated by Paranormal Experts: Led by knowledgeable paranormal experts who share ghost stories and legends associated with each location.