NYC News
Summer on Governors Island Heats Up for 2025
May 27, 2025, 12:52.09 am ET
Photo: Shutterstock
Governors Island kicks off its 2025 summer season with extended hours through Labor Day—open daily until 10pm (11pm on weekends), with South Island Park areas like The Hills and Hammock Grove open until dusk.
Just minutes from Manhattan and Brooklyn, the Island offers 120 acres of open space, plus seasonal favorites like the Urban Farm's gardens, Collective Retreats for overnight stays,play:groundNYC's Adventure Playground (a unique kids-only space), and LMCC’s Arts Center. Brooklyn ferry service returns weekends and holiday Mondays, May 24–Sept 21.
Summer Highlights:
Food & Drink: New this year—Threes Brewing, powered by Grand Army Bar, and Pizzeria Fantastica from the Pizza Yard team. Don’t miss Island Oyster for waterfront cocktails and eats.
Major Events:
• Governors Island Insect Walk (May 30)
• River to River Festival (May 31–Oct 26)
• Mubadala Sail Grand Prix & NYC Lavender Festival (June 7–8)
• Jazz Age Lawn Party (June 14–15, Aug 9–10)
• Porch Stomp (June 21), Great Nosh Picnic (June 22)
• NYCRUNS Firecracker Run (July 5)
• NYC Poetry Festival (July 12–13)
• Sundae Sermon Music Festival (July 19)
• FAD Market Governors Island pop-ups – June 21 – 22, July 19 – 20, August 16 – 17
Slide Hill is closed for maintenance, but Hammock Grove Play Area remains open daily.
New this year: the Governors Island Season Pass—with unlimited ferry rides, vendor discounts, and exclusive perks—celebrating 20 years of public access.
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