Next time you’re in New York take the time to explore beyond the stereotypical streets of Manhattan.
Staten Island’s North Shore neighbourhoods – Port Richmond, Randall Manor, St George and West Brighton – are all conveniently accessible by the famous free Staten Island Ferry, providing visitors and New Yorkers alike with the perfect afternoon itinerary away from the tourist masses.
Staten Island is one of New York City’s best-kept secrets, with stunning green spaces, historic districts and harbour views, as well as diverse cultural offerings and delicious Italian cuisine.
Port Richmond
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A trip to Staten Island is not complete without trying the chilled delights at Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices & Ice Cream’s original outpost. The neighbourhood staple has an extensive menu with traditional water ice confections and novelty treats, including sundaes and smoothies.
Randall Manor
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At the Noble Maritime Collection, located in the Snug Harbor Cultural Center, visitors step into New York City’s 19th-century maritime culture and industry. The museum highlights John A Noble’s New York Harbor paintings and collection of shop models and maritime artifacts.
The picturesque Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is a must-see destination. Once a home for retired sailors, the centre has since been converted and developed into complex of museums, gardens and theatres.
Located on the grounds of Snug Harbor, the Staten Island Children’s Museum is home to hands-on exhibits, strategic thinking games, an authentic fire truck and a performance stage with costumes for dress-up.
St George 
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Located on the North Shore Waterfront Esplanade, the Staten Island September 11 memorial honours the Staten Island victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
For authentic Italian dining, Staten Island residents head to Enoteca Maria, a family-style restaurant whose head chefs are Italian nonnas, or grandmothers. The menu changes daily to reflect the ‘head nonna’ of the day, but diners will get a true Italian dining experience every time.
West Brighton
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Nicknamed the ‘biggest little zoo’, the Staten Island Zoo has an impressive collection of small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and tropical fish. Among the grounds, visitors will find an impressive collection of snakes and reptiles as well as foxes, otters and a red panda.