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NYC Ferry Travel Guide

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Explore the Astoria Route with NYC Ferry

NYC Ferry’s Astoria route connects you to vibrant waterfront destinations, from Downtown Manhattan to the Upper East Side, as well as Astoria, Roosevelt Island, Long Island City, and the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Whether you’re exploring art, parks, or enjoying skyline views, this route offers a convenient and scenic way to experience some of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods.
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Key Attractions Along the Astoria Route

  • Carl Schurz Park

    East 90th Street

    Carl Schurz Park is a cherished oasis along the East River, offering dog runs, playgrounds, and beautifully maintained seasonal gardens that create postcard-worthy views. A favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy fresh air and tranquility in the heart of the city.
    📍 About a 5-minute walk from East 90th Street
  • Gracie Mansion

    East 90th Street

    Smack in the middle of Carl Schurz Park lies Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York's Mayor. Guided tours give a glimpse into true elegance and tranquility in the gardens—an oasis with a view of the East River.
    📍 About a 5-minute walk from East 90th Street
  • The Noguchi Museum

    Astoria

    Explore the Noguchi Museum, where you can view the full range of Isamu Noguchi's work—from sculptures and drawings to furniture—set within a serene outdoor environment that enhances the experience. This unique space offers a deep dive into Noguchi's distinctive aesthetic, making it a must-visit for art and design lovers alike.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Astoria
  • Astoria Park

    Astoria

    Astoria Park, with its expansive lawns and the iconic Hell Gate Bridge, is a popular destination for sports, swimming, and outdoor concerts. Offering stunning views of the East River and the Manhattan skyline, the park serves as a vital cultural and recreational hub in the city.
    📍 About a 15-minute walk from Astoria
  • Roosevelt Island Tramway

    Roosevelt Island

    The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers breathtaking views of Manhattan and the East River on a one-of-a-kind journey. This scenic ride transports you to Roosevelt Island, where you can explore parks, trails, and cultural landmarks, providing a fresh and unique perspective on the NYC experience.
    📍 About a 2-minute walk from Roosevelt Island
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park

    Roosevelt Island

    The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park is a serene granite-lined walkway that leads to a striking memorial plaza, offering stunning views of the United Nations and the East River. Dedicated to Roosevelt’s vision of global freedoms, the park invites visitors to reflect on his enduring legacy in a peaceful and inspiring setting.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Roosevelt Island
  • Smallpox Memorial Hospital

    Roosevelt Island

    The Smallpox Memorial Hospital on Roosevelt Island stands as a testament to New York City's public health history. Once a treatment center for contagious diseases, its striking Gothic Revival architecture now serves as a poignant reminder of the city's evolving medical practices and urban landscape.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Roosevelt Island
  • Queensboro Bridge

    Roosevelt Island

    The Queensboro Bridge is a wonder of the bridge world, incorrectly referred to as the 59th Street Bridge—misnamed by the popular but incorrect eponymous song. It's a historic span that is popular for walking and biking, not only for its spectacular views of the East River and vibrant cityscape below but also because of its rich history.
  • Pepsi-Cola sign

    Long Island City

    The iconic Pepsi-Cola sign, installed in 1936, has become a beloved fixture of the Queens skyline. Its nighttime illumination casts a retro glow across the river—a testament to New York City's industrial past and enduring visual charm.
    📍 About a 2-minute walk from Long Island City
  • Empire State Building

    East 34th Street

    The Empire State Building, one of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers, stands as a symbol of New York City’s skyline. From its 86th-floor observation deck, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Visit the exhibits to dive into the building’s rich history, its role in American architecture, and its appearances in countless films and pop culture.
    📍 About a 20-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • Chrysler Building

    East 34th Street

    The Chrysler Building is a stunning masterpiece of Art Deco design, celebrated for its intricate façade and iconic gleaming spire. Completed in 1930, it briefly held the title of the world's tallest building and remains a symbol of early 20th-century elegance and architectural innovation in the New York City skyline.
    📍 About a 20-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • Grand Central Terminal

    East 34th Street

    Grand Central Terminal is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture and one of New York City's most iconic landmarks. Step inside to admire the grand concourse with its celestial ceiling, and experience the famed whispering gallery. Beyond its architectural beauty, Grand Central is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, making it a bustling hub for both travelers and visitors alike, as one of the busiest train stations in the world.
    📍 About a 22-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • Bryant Park

    East 34th Street

    Whether you're ice-skating in the winter or catching outdoor movies in the summer, Bryant Park offers year-round charm. Wander through its stunning gardens, grab a bite at the Bryant Park Grill, or simply relax with a book in the shade. Nestled between Midtown’s towering skyscrapers, this lush green space is a serene retreat from the city's hustle.
    📍 About a 25-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • The Morgan Library & Museum

    East 34th Street

    The Morgan Library & Museum blends a historic library with a world-class collection of fine art and literary treasures. Step into the private study of J.P. Morgan, preserved from the Gilded Age, and explore rare manuscripts and exhibitions that make this cultural landmark a must-see for history and art lovers alike.
    📍 About a 20-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

    East 34th Street

    SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a striking example of modernist architecture, with its sleek glass façade standing tall above Midtown Manhattan. Offering unparalleled views of New York’s evolving skyline, it embodies the city's innovative spirit, blending cutting-edge design with breathtaking observation spaces for a one-of-a-kind experience.
    📍 About a 25-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • Library Walk

    East 34th Street

    Library Walk, nestled along East 41st Street between Fifth and Park Avenues, is a hidden gem in Midtown Manhattan. Featuring bronze plaques embedded in the sidewalk with inspiring literary quotes, this stretch celebrates the power of the written word and offers a quiet tribute to the world’s greatest authors, just steps from the iconic New York Public Library.
    📍 About a 25-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • New York Public Library

    East 34th Street

    The New York Public Library, one of the world’s finest, is a Beaux-Arts masterpiece renowned for its vast collections and cultural significance. Explore the stunning Rose Main Reading Room, recently restored to its original grandeur, and enjoy an array of literary events, exhibitions, and lectures that make it a cornerstone of New York's intellectual life.
    📍 About a 25-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • United Nations Headquarters

    East 34th Street

    Take a guided tour of the United Nations Headquarters to learn about its history, mission, and role in the world. Explore the architectural styles of the member states and visit the rooms where significant international decisions are made.
    📍 About a 20-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • AKC Museum of the Dog

    East 34th Street

    Explore exhibits featuring canine-inspired artwork, artifacts, and interactive displays. Learn about different dog breeds, their roles throughout history, and how dogs have related to people through the ages.
    📍 About a 20-minute walk from East 34th Street
  • Brooklyn Navy Yard Center

    Brooklyn Navy Yard

    The Brooklyn Navy Yard Center at Admirals Row provides insight into the yard's industrial past through exhibitions, tours, and workshops. Learn about the Navy Yard's role in American maritime history, explore restored historic buildings, and discover modern innovations in manufacturing and sustainability.
    📍 About 15 minutes walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • One World Trade Center

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower, stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope, towering over downtown Lower Manhattan. Ride up to its observation deck for breathtaking, indescribable views of New York City, and then take a moment to reflect at the nearby 9/11 Memorial, honoring the lives lost on September 11, 2001.
    📍 About a 20-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • Battery Park

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    Battery Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, serving as a green oasis at the southern tip of the island. Stroll along the Esplanade, where lush greenery meets stunning waterfront views, and explore landmarks like the historic Castle Clinton National Monument, all while soaking in the park’s serene atmosphere.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • 9/11 Memorial & Museum

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    The 9/11 Memorial and Museum offer a moving tribute to the lives lost, the resilience of the survivors, and the events of that tragic day. As you walk around the twin reflecting pools and explore the thoughtfully curated exhibits, you are immersed in powerful stories and artifacts that bring this pivotal moment in history to life.
    📍 About a 15-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • SeaGlass Carousel

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    The SeaGlass Carousel is a mesmerizing attraction featuring glowing glass fish that create an enchanting, calming experience for visitors of all ages. With its artistic charm and whimsical design, this magical ride transports you to a world of imagination, adding a sense of wonder and beauty to its surroundings.
    📍 About a 12-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • South Street Seaport Museum

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    Sail through history at the South Street Seaport Museum, which brings New York City's rich maritime past to life. Tour historic ships, including the tall ship, Wavertree, and view fascinating exhibits featuring nautical artifacts. Learn how this area played a key role in determining the trade and cultural heritage that shapes the city today.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • Charging Bull

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    Snap a photo with the iconic Charging Bull, a symbol of luck and financial success, standing proudly in the heart of the Financial District. This powerful bronze sculpture in Bowling Green Park represents optimism and prosperity, embodying the spirit of Wall Street.
    📍 About a 12-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • The Seaport

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    Explore beautifully restored 19th-century buildings that now house shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, all set against the stunning backdrop of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge. The Seaport district in Lower Manhattan combines historic cobblestone streets with modern amenities, blending old-world charm with contemporary culture.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • Federal Hall National Memorial

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    Step back in time at the Federal Hall National Memorial, where the inauguration of George Washington as the first President of the United States is brought to life. Explore exhibitions that showcase the early days of American government and highlight the historical importance of this iconic building.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • Fraunces Tavern Museum

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    The Fraunces Tavern Museum not only offers a deep dive into Revolutionary War history with its impressive collection of artifacts, portraits, and documents, but it's also where George Washington famously bid farewell to his officers. After exploring the museum, you can dine at the still-operating tavern, enjoying a meal in a place steeped in American history.
    📍 About a 10-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • National Museum of the American Indian

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    The National Museum of the American Indian showcases the rich history and diverse contributions of Native peoples across the Americas. Through exhibits on Native American art, history, and contemporary issues, the museum fosters cultural understanding and respect, offering visitors a deeper appreciation of Native heritage and its enduring impact.
    📍 About a 12-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11
  • Trinity Church

    Wall Street/Pier 11

    Trinity Church, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, stands as a historic gem in downtown Lower Manhattan. With over 200 years of rich history, the church's serene garden offers a peaceful retreat amidst the city's energy. As you explore, visit the gravesite of Alexander Hamilton, and reflect on the legacy of this iconic landmark, all while enjoying the contrast of its timeless beauty against the vibrant cityscape.
    📍 About a 12-minute walk from Wall Street/Pier 11