New York City, famed for its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, is also a city built on water – a metropolis that includes about 40 islands.
From the vibrant streets of Manhattan to the secluded, untouched shores of lesser-known islands, each one tells its own unique story.
Some islands hum with the rhythm of urban life, while others offer rare pockets of quiet and nature, hidden away from the constant rush. Together, they form a mosaic that defines the city’s diverse landscape, blending human ingenuity with natural beauty.
Manhattan: The heart of the city
Manhattan is likely the first island that comes to mind when thinking of New York. Geographically, it’s an island shaped by natural waterways, yet it has become one of the most densely populated places on Earth.
How Manhattan Island grew from wilderness to a metropolis
Throughout the century, Manhattan was a beacon for all seeking freedom and prosperity.
The island’s development began with Dutch settlers in the 17th century, who named it New Amsterdam before the British took control and renamed it New York.
Manhattan’s neighborhoods are diverse, but what unites them is their shared location on this island, which millions call home or their place of work.
Staten Island: The green borough
Located to the southwest of Manhattan, Staten Island is accessible via the Staten Island Ferry, which offers one of the best views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
Unlike Manhattan, Staten Island is known for its suburban feel, with parks, nature reserves, and a slower pace of life.
Staten Island’s history stretches back centuries, playing roles during both the American Revolution and the Industrial Revolution.
Today, it’s known for attractions like the Staten Island Zoo, the Staten Island Greenbelt, Historic Richmond Town, and the Staten Island Museum, showcasing both nature and colonial history.
Roosevelt Island: NYC’s hidden hustle in the East River
Located between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island, a narrow island in the East River, has a fascinating history.
Originally called Blackwell’s Island, then Welfare Island when it housed hospitals and prisons, it was renamed Roosevelt Island in 1973 in honor of Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Today, Roosevelt Island is known for its residential communities, parks, and cultural landmarks like the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park at the southern tip.
The island is accessible by subway, ferry, and the famous Roosevelt Island Tramway, offering breathtaking aerial views of the city.
Governors Island: A recreational hub
Governors Island, located in New York Harbor, has transformed dramatically in recent years. Once a military post for both the U.S. Army and the Coast Guard, it is now a popular public destination for recreation, events, and outdoor activities.
Governors Island, now accessible by ferry year-round and remaining car-free, is an excellent place for biking, walking, or enjoying the green spaces. Its historic buildings and newly designed landscapes have made it a beloved part of New York’s island landscape.
Ellis Island and Liberty Island: Symbols of American history
Ellis Island and Liberty Island hold a special place in American history. Located in Upper New York Bay, these two small islands are best known for their roles in welcoming immigrants and representing freedom.
Ellis Island served as the country’s primary immigration station from 1892 to 1954, processing millions of immigrants arriving in the U.S.
Today, the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration provides insights into the lives of those who passed through its halls, making it one of the most historically significant islands in New York.
Nearby, Liberty Island is home to the Statue of Liberty, one of the world’s most recognizable symbols of freedom. The statue, a gift from France to the United States in 1886, has become an iconic landmark.
Both Liberty Island and Ellis Island are accessible by ferry, drawing millions of tourists each year.
Randall’s and Wards Islands: Green spaces and sports facilities
Randall’s Island and Wards Island are situated in the East River, connected to Manhattan, the Bronx, and Queens by multiple bridges.
Although historically separate islands, they are now connected by landfill and often referred to collectively as “Randall’s Island.” Together, they offer a sprawling green space with athletic fields, concert venues, and picnic areas.
Randall’s Island Park is a hub for sports, hosting everything from soccer to baseball games. The island is also known for its role in environmental education, with its Urban Farm and wetlands serving as outdoor classrooms for sustainability.
While not as famous as some other islands, Randall’s and Wards Islands provide vital green space for recreation in the city.
Rikers Island: New York’s controversial prison complex
Rikers Island, located in the East River near LaGuardia Airport, is home to New York City’s primary jail complex, which has gained significant attention for its challenging conditions and controversial reputation.
The city has plans to close Rikers Island by 2027 as it reimagines the justice system.
Other lesser-known islands of New York City
Beyond these better-known islands, New York City is also home to several smaller, lesser-known islands.
Hart Island, located in the Long Island Sound, serves as the city’s potter’s field, where unclaimed bodies are buried.
City Island in the Bronx is a charming seaside village known for its seafood restaurants and maritime history.
North Brother Island, meanwhile, is an abandoned island in the East River, once the site of a quarantine hospital and now a bird sanctuary.