Staten Island 

#1. The Staten Island Boat Graveyard

The Arthur Kill waterway hides a ghastly secret beneath its waters, and some of those secrets are still worth discovering for visitors to Staten Island’s Tugboat Graveyard. Twisted wood planks and metal spires reach from the waves as the last remnants of more than 200 ships that were “put to rest” here since the 1930s. Part of the ships have sunken, decomposed or even been stripped for their metals and sold, leaving this eerie field of wreckages and a sordid reminder of the environmental results of industry. This “accidental museum” is a bit of a trek though, and as it’s a 13-mile bus ride from the Staten Island Ferry, these murky depths are reserved for only the most determined of dark tourists. 

#2. Staten Island Museum

While the scenic Staten Island Ferry gets plenty of well-deserved love, The Staten Island Museum at Snug Harbor, founded in 1881, is another icon of the Forgotten Borough that shouldn’t be missed. The museum is dedicated to the heritage of Staten Island and features paintings by Marc Changal, work from Asia, Africa, Indigenous America and Europe, as well as over 500,000 insects, if that’s your thing. Welcoming over 200,000 people each year, this former dormitory for retired seamen has been converted into one of the premiere natural history, art and cultural museums in the city. It’s well-worth the bargain as well, tickets start at $2 for Children 2 to 12 up to $8 for adults, (Children under 2 get in free).

#3. Fort Wadsworth

One of the oldest military installations in the nation, tracing its initial foundation back to 1779, midway through the American Revolution. Originally inhabited by the British, it was one of the forts fortified by U.S. forces following the war along with others like Fort Lafayette in Brooklyn, Fort Jay on Governors Island and Fort Gibson on Ellis Island; otherwise known as the Second American System of coastal defense. The Fort also served as a base of operations for soldiers during the Spanish American War, World War I and World war II before being turned into a national park in 1994 by the US Navy. Beyond the fort itself, the park is available for camping, fishing, and hiking in addition to horseback riding, boating and access to sporting facilities. 

Manhattan Destinations

#1. The Cloisters

The Met Cloisters, found in upper Manhattan and situated in Lenapehoking, homeland of the Lenape diaspora, is a medieval-style building that is just under 90 years old. Designed by Charles Collen and funded by none other than John D Rockefeller, the building was built atop and around the original museum built there by George Grey Barnard, a sculpture artist trained in France. The location is built to be reminiscent of medieval European monasteries, churches, castles and other structures into a coherent museum of architecture, horticulture and art. Tapestries, paintings, sculptures, artifacts and several flower gardens make this location an eclectic and exciting visit, with something for everyone just a short walk from the 1 or the A. In addition to their permanent installation, the museum is host to ongoing and rotating exhibits, such as the current Hear Me Now: The Black Potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina or the upcoming exhibition on Afro-Hispanic Painter Juan de Pareja. Tickets are pay-what-you-want for NY residents and students from New Jersey, and Connecticut as well.

#2. Little Island 

After opening in May 2021, Little Island is a new public park and part of Hudson River Park, built atop an artificial “island” more than two square acres large. Offering an abundance of free programming, including educational, natural, artistic, and community projects, the park saw over 1 million visitors in its opening year, usually filling to capacity before noon, so if you plan a visit, make sure you have a timed-ticket if you plan on visiting later in the day. With two performance venues featuring work by one of their multiple artists-in-residence (such as the fantastic playwright Tina Landau and actor Michael McElroy), and over 350 species of plants, the park is more than worth a visit for nature and entertainment lovers alike. Weather permitting, the park, free to the public, is open 365 days a year from 6am and closes at a different time depending on time of season; so plan your visit accordingly! 

#3. The High Line

A public park located on the West Side of Manhattan, the High Line is also a nonprofit organization that offers tours, art performances, and food along with a one-of-a-kind NYC tourism experience. Built on an elevated rail line and sanctioned as a park in 2006 by Mayor Bloomberg and the City council, the high line is an excellent example of urban refurbishment, taking what had been an eyesore of a defunct rail line and turning it into a cultural center and metropolitan getaway. Take a stroll from Gansevoort Street to 34th street, a 1.45-mile stretch that allows one to view 10th and 12th avenue from a wheelchair-accessible platform above the city. There’s no shortage of activities near and on the high line, including amateur trapeze flying, swimming at the Chelsea pier, and visiting the Whitney Museum of Art.

Year-Round Fun in The Bronx

#1. New York Botanical Garden

An “Advocate for the plant world”, the New York Botanical garden was established in 1891 and takes up more than 250 acres of space, making it the largest in any city in the U.S. A National Historic Landmark, the garden features over 30,000 types of trees and hosts 100 Ph. D-level scientists currently engaged in 250 international collaborations in 49 countries! Committed to preserving and protecting New York and the world’s biodiversity, NYBG is an excellent chance to see a wide diversity of plants and flowers while also learning about the rich history and wide importance of horticulture. Activities include the family-friendly Edible Academy, The Wetland Train and the dining at Hudson Garden Grill.  Tickets for New York City residents start at $7 for students and seniors, while non-member adults will pay $15. Children and members get in free.

#2. Edgar Allan Poe Cottage

Quoth The Raven, the poet and author Edgar Allen Poe, famous for works such as The Tell-Tale Heart, Lenore and The Fall of the House of Usher, lived in The Bronx from 1846 to 1849, when he died under mysterious circumstances. While he wrote “The Raven” at a previous home in Manhattan, Poe, a Boston native, wrote several of his most famous poems while at this location, including The Bells, Annabel Lee and his short story, The Cask of Amontillado. The Poe Cottage is now a historic landmark and is on the National Register of Historic places, owned by NYC and run as a museum, open Friday through Sunday from 9am to 12pm and then from 1pm to 5pm. Just be wary of still-beating hearts beneath the floorboards! 

#3. The Bronx Zoo

Taking up more than 265 acres of space, the Bronx Zoo offers unparalleled opportunities to get up and close with wildlife in New York City, not counting pigeons of course. Opening in 1899, the Bronx Zoo houses over 4000 animals representing more than 650 species. Highlights include The Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, and the Aquatic Bird House & Sea-Bird Aviary. They even offer a seasonal Butterfly Garden experience, from April through October, where one can interact with the butterflies directly and get to know other animals in their biome. Date-Specific tickets are required, and parking can fill to capacity on peak attendance days so an alternate mode of travel is suggested during especially busy periods such as holidays.

Queens Destinations

#1. MoMA PS1

MoMa PS1 (or the Museum of Modern Art) was founded by Alanna Heiss, who now serves as curator, in 1976, and has been a powerhouse of contemporary art and culture in Queens ever since. MoMA PS1 is an artist-centered, community driven organization that hosts a wide variety of programming, such as the ongoing After The Fire mural project, or the upcoming dance / performance art project by London’s Onyeka Igwe, A Repertoire of Protest (No Dance, No Palaver). Best of all, admission is free to all New Yorkers; so be sure to check out the campus from time to time to see some of their ever-changing selection of exhibits and events. 

#2. Astoria Park

Featuring the oldest and largest pool in the city, Astoria park sits on the edge of the East River and takes up nearly 60 acres of land. Originally called William J. Gaynor park after the mayor at the time, and then East River Park, the Board of Alderman officially named the park “Astoria” in 1913. Located beneath the Robert F. Kennedy and Hell Gate Bridges in Queens, the park also features over a dozen tennis courts, several playgrounds, and a skatepark. The pool is, however seasonal, it’s open only whenever the New York City public school season is not in session, so mostly over the summer, although you can check the website for more specific dates yearly.  Also, note you’ll need to bring a combination lock for a locker, and food, glass bottles, electronic devices, and newspapers aren’t allowed in the pool; so you’ll need to leave those at home. 

#3. Louis Armstrong House Museum

After the passing of her husband, famed jazz musician and civil-rights legend Louis Armstrong, the late Lucille Armstrong stayed at their home on 107th Street in Corona, Queens working to preserve his legacy. This effort has resulted in The Louis Armstrong House Museum (LAHM), a National and New York Historic Landmark that holds exclusive archival material, private recordings, and other documentation on the life of the musician, along with live music performances and other programming. The house is open Thursday through Saturday only and has limited hours, so it’s important to schedule ahead to make sure to make the most of your experience, but once there be sure to take part in one of the daily guided tours that walk you through this piece of music history, “frozen in time”. 

Brooklyn Locations To Visit

#1. Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

Located in North Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Academy of Music has been a home for performance and art for over 150 years. With programming in theatre, dance, music, film and opera, there’s always something to see or do on the beautiful campus. A quick glance at their extensive calendar of events you’ll see how live installations are often placed alongside current films and live performances, making a day-long visit to BAM well worth the trip. With three separate venues, The Peter Jay Sharp Building, BAM Fisher and BAM Strong, there’s always plenty to see, and membership offers access to even more advantages and art. The work at BAM is often critically acclaimed and world-renowned, cementing it as an underground incubator of important new work and a showroom for the avant-garde. 

#2. Brooklyn Bridge Park

While the Brooklyn Bridge is an obvious choice for tourism when visiting New York City, the crowds and traffic constantly crossing the structure may make viewing it difficult from the walkway. For a different vantage point, another choice may be the Brooklyn Bridge Park which offers a stellar view of the bridge, and is a bit of an open secret amongst locals for its out-of-the way vistas, expansive piers filled with activities and programming, as well as a waterfront park. From the labyrinth on Pier 3, to the famous outdoor Jane’s Carousel, to the glamorous Empire Stores, the park has year-long activities perfect for anyone looking for a quiet stroll, a brisk kayak trip, or a casual throwdown at the ping-pong tables.

#3. Coney Island

The last stop at the bottom of the Q Train will take you to one of the most historic and iconic summer getaways in the city. From the boardwalk and amusement park rides, to the long hot beach, Coney Island is synonymous with New York Summer fun, and has been a staple in the city since 1895 when the first enclosed amusement park opened in the area. Some track the invention of the Roller Coaster back to 1884 Coney Island and LaMarcus Adna Thompson, where he built his gravity-based “Switchback railway” which would become the foundation for our modern rides. Some of Coney Island’s current featured attractions include the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park and the New York Aquarium. Coney Island is also a famous filming location in New York City, with movies such as The Wiz, The Warriors and Requiem for a Dream filming on or near the beach.

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Staten Island Sins

Staten Island, the forgotten borough, has had more than its fair share of fascinating cases of true-crime horror, from The Nimer Murders to the murder spree of Salvatore Perrone. But perhaps no name is as famous or feared as that of convicted kidnapper Andre Rand, who is currently serving several consecutive life sentences for several murders and kidnappings in the city. The borough’s most notorious serial killer, in 2004, he was convicted of abducting Holly Ann Huges from her Port Richmond neighborhood on the East Shore in the early 80s. But his terrible misdeeds stretched back earlier, all the way to 1972 with the disappearance of at least six other people, although he was never formally charged for their disappearance. 

In August 1987, the body of a 12-year-old Westerleigh resident, Jennifer Schweiger, was found in a shallow grave on the grounds of what is now the College of Staten Island; but the jury only convicted him on kidnapping charges, not murder.

It’s unknown how many more victims Rand has, and he shows very little remorse for his actions. Rand is a prolific writer known for sending out several Mother’s Day missives “to all the ladies of Staten Island who supported ‘prosecutorial vincitvness’ against an innocent person.’  In 2001, while in prison, he released a series of letters to The Advance, a newspaper, the earliest of which was written back in 1994. The letters include an argument against nuclear proliferation, autobiographical stories of his youth, and a detailed sketch of a small aircraft. The quiet neighborhood where Rand lived in what is now West Brighton only blocks away from the famous Staten Island Zoo, with listings such as this 3 Bedroom on Marion Street only a few minutes walk away from Rand’s previous home.

Bad Clams in Manhattan

Located at 129 Mulberry Street, Umberto’s Clam House in Little Italy was the location of one of the most sensational assassinations of a mob boss, when Joey “Crazy Joe” Gallo was murdered only weeks after getting married. After celebrating his birthday with his wife, his sister, child, and bodyguard at the Copacabana, Gallo and his entourage were found dining at the Clam House, Joey ordered the shrimp and scungilli salad. While they ate, a quartet of gunmen arrived and open fire at the family, fatally wounding Gallo but not before they were able to turn the butcher table on its side to provide shielding for the rest of his family. Gallo stumbled to the front door, cursing at the gunmen as they fled before collapsing into a puddle of his own blood in the street: a scene straight out of any mafia movie. 

This was a particularly brazen attack as the hit had been conducted while Gallo was celebrating his birthday and was with his family at the time, and was a marked escalation in the conflict between the Five Families of New York. “Crazy Joe” had started a war against his bosses for control of the family and paid for it with his life. His death started another war when his crew broke off from the rest of the Colombo Family, leading to a series of ten gangland slayings before they eventually rejoined, making it one of the bloodiest mafia wars in the city’s history. 

The restaurant had only been open for two months before the 1972 hit, but Umberto’s Clam House is still open, serving as a historical landmark and tourist attraction for true-crime fans, mafia aficionados, and clam lovers alike. Want to live where the mafia used to frequent? Right around the corner is 181 Hester Street, where you can snap up a 1 bedroom apartment and feel like the mob boss that you are.

The Red Circle Slayer of Queens 

The Red Circle Slayer terrorized the quiet community of Hollis Hills in Queens, New York, throughout the late 1920s and early 30s, and although a suspect is currently behind bars, no one is sure if it’s the right man. The popular patch of woods where the first attacks took place was filled with booze, used condoms, and underwear; a popular spot for young lovers at the time. The killer attacked young couples and lovers who found themselves within his unfortunate gaze, often while out “necking” or making out in their cars. His first victims were Lewis Weiss, 20, a clerk at a steel company, and Frances Hajek,19, who worked at her family’s bakery.

Separate similar incidents earlier in the decade were attributed to the 3X Murderer who taunted police and had victims near the site of the Red Circle slayings, although this did nothing but murky the waters of a new, potentially dangerous killer on the loose. 

Due to a number of bad leads, unreliable witnesses, and false admissions of guilt, the killer, who was known for placing a red circle painted in lipstick on the foreheads of victims, has never been confirmed. But in 1938, Walter Wiley, a career criminal with a long rap sheet, could not come up with an alibi for the night of Hajek’s death. While a jury was ultimately unable to indict Wiley on murder charges, he was put behind bars for unrelated robberies and spent 40 years behind bars, effectively ending the Red Circle Slayer’s reign. Locals, although, were less reassured; perhaps there’s a serial killer living amongst the quiet Queens community after all these years. For those amateur sleuths or those who simply want to do a little necking in a picturesque New York neighborhood, this three-bedroom, second-floor apartment is in a beautiful, safe location, but only minutes away from the Red Circle site.

The Hole of Brooklyn

John Gotti, or the Teflon Don, is one of the most famous names in popular media when it comes to the Italian Mafia. Before passing away in prison at the age of 61 while serving a life sentence, he was the leader of one of the most notorious crime families in New York, the Gambinos. After seizing power by ordering the murder of Paul Castellano, who was the head of the family at the time, he became a famous public figure. Gotti was known for his expensive taste and less-than-scrupulous business practices, earning him an additional nickname; the Dapper Don. But the Dapper Don had some dark secrets, not including the bodies that his “operations” would inevitably pile up; and he needed a place to dump them. Enter The Hole.

This ten-block stretch between East New York and Howard Beach is directly on the border of Brooklyn and Queens, and today is almost unrecognizable as “New York City” from a traditional standpoint. The neighborhood is at a lower elevation than the surrounding area, resulting in a noticeable dip, earning it its name. The Hole is also named so for another reason, as it was one of the largest mass graveyards for the mob, and a personal favorite of John Gotti. Residents of The Hole have recovered so many bodies from the area that they can be used as landmarks, and they continue to be found even as recently as 2004 when the bodies of Dominick “Big Trin” Trinchera and Phillip “Philly Lucky” Giaccone were exhumed. THe area now serves as a base for a branch of the Federation of Black Cowboys. While living in The Hole is a bit risky, the area frequently floods due to its low elevation; those who want to live near this grim reminder of mob history will be happy to know there are many listings near the neighborhood, such as this fully furnished 2 bedroom duplex only blocks away from where bodies were found.

The Son of Sam in The Bronx

David Berkowitz, also known as the Son of Sam, lived at 35 Pine St, Yonkers NY after being brought up in the Bronx. After the death of his adoptive mother, he became a loner before joining the army in 1971, distinguishing himself as a marksman. After his return to New York he worked as a security guard, all while being haunted by the voices in his head, demons he would later claim, who were spurning him on toward murder. He took his first victims in 1975 on Christmas Eve, when he attacked a young Michelle Foreman and another unidentified woman with a hunting knife. Foreman was 15 years old at the time. Berkowitz moved to Yonkers in 1976, where the demons in his head took the form of the neighborhood dogs and eventually Sam’s neighbors themselves; it wasn’t long before he continued his spree.

With victims in four of the five boroughs, not including Staten Island, the entirety of New York felt the terror of the .44-caliber killer, so named because of the bullets used to tie the murders to a single killer.

After sending a series of letters out to previous landlords, neighbors, and other affiliates, local police were alerted to a potential candidate for The Son of Sam and reported it to the NYPD’s special Omega Task Force tasked with nabbing the killer, but these tips ultimately went unheeded because of the sheer number of false leads. It wasn’t until an eyewitness came forward to report that she’d seen Berkowitz with a gun only moments before she heard gunshots in Brooklyn that he was finally apprehended by the police.

When his Yonkers apartment was searched, they found satanic graffiti drawn on the walls and diaries detailing over 1,400 arsons he was also allegedly responsible for. Berkowitz ultimately rescinded his claims of demonic influence and stated he instead was lashing out in anger at a world he felt had rejected him. True crime fans who want to see and hear the demons that drove Berkowitz mad can find availabilities at the 42 Pine Street apartments just a few doors down from his Pine St resident, though his building is now privately owned, dark tourists aren’t guaranteed welcome.

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Welcome to East Shore, the Staten Island area with beautiful beaches, parks, and activities! Staten Island is often the punching bag of NYC, but the borough has just as much to offer as the rest of the city, if not more. East Shore, for example, has a ton of stuff to do, especially given the smaller neighborhoods that rest inside it. These neighborhoods include Fort Wadsworth, Arrochar, Concord, Grasmere, Dongan Hills, Ocean Breeze, Midland Beach, New Dorp Beach, Oakwood, Bay Terrace, and more.

History of East Shore

For much of Staten Island’s life, it was used as farmland, seaports, and military bases, like Fort Wadsworth, until the end of World War II. As the population of NYC grew, people needed a place to live, so Staten Island developed rather rapidly. This development only increased with the construction of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in 1964. Since then, the area has thrived, opening long-standing businesses, restaurants, and homes.

Where to Shop in East Shore

 

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East Shore’s shopping destinations might not be as glamorous as the establishments of SoHo and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, but there are many places where folks can find great deals on awesome items! Some of these stores include:

Appliances R Russ

This appliance shop both sells and repairs everything from refrigerators to dryers. These experts have great reviews on Yelp and Google, hailing their swiftness, great prices, and wide range of knowledge.

Dragonic Tiger Games

This hobby shop is perfect for the nerd inside all of us. Whether it is Funko-Pops or trading cards, they have everything you need to become the best of the best in your game of choice. They even hold regular Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, and Magic the Gathering tournaments.

Hylan Plaza

This shopping mall is popular in the area for high-end stores, restaurants, and wellness establishments. The mall is huge and includes stores like New York Man, Marshalls, and GameStop, just to name a few.

East Shore Landmarks

Staten Island might have developed largely after World War II, but there have been people here since the colonies’ early days. Some of these locations include:

Fort Wadsworth

This fort and park is a military installation that has been around since before the revolution, though it’s gone through numerous renovations and updates. The park does guided walking tours and is a popular spot for those who love great views of the Manhattan Skyline.

Historic Richmond Town

This museum site is the location of several historic homes from all over NYC. Some of the famous homes resting here include the first county jail in the US, the Edward’s-Barton House, and the foundation for one of the oldest barns in the country.

Moravian Cemetery

This cemetery is where several notable NYC families are buried, including several members of the Vanderbilts. Other notable people include Martin Scorsese’s parents, Paul Zindel, and several members of the Gambino crime family.

Where to Eat in East Shore

 

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East Shore is a huge area full of great restaurants, especially if you’re into Italian food. Some of the best establishments here include:

Basilio Inn ($$)

This Italian restaurant has been serving East Shore residents since 1921 and is the oldest restaurant in the borough. Some of the best meals that can be found here include the breaded little neck clams, Long Island duck breast, and chicken marsala.

Dough by Licastri ($$)

This specialty pizza place is beloved by locals. Some of their best pies include their Margherita, white pizza, and grandma-style pie. They also have a wide array of calzones, sandwiches, and salads. 

Zara Cafe Grill ($$)

This Turkish restaurant is a favorite due to its kebabs, gyros, and pasta. This establishment aims to showcase Turkish cuisine to those who would otherwise not experience such delicious food. This is why their menu is quite extensive.

Fig & Vine ($$$)

Another Italian restaurant, this upscale place is perfect for those seeking to impress family, coworkers, or a date. They have amazing stuff like filet mignon, steak and scallops, and even squid ink pasta. They also have an extensive wine list.

Villa Paradiso ($$)

Another upscale Italian restaurant, this place is known for its handmade pasta, steak, and raw seafood bar complete with oysters. Their menu is huge, and everything is expertly made. The wine list here cannot be beat, featuring options that pair well with any meal.

Bars of East Shore

 

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While East Shore is mostly a suburban area, there are some bars here for those seeking to let loose for a little while. Some of the best bars in the area include:

Lee’s Tavern ($)

This bar and pizza place is popular for locals to gather and watch some sports on the weekend. The ambiance is relaxing, the food is great, and there’s even an old pac-man arcade game for guests to enjoy.

Griff’s Place ($)

This sports bar is the spot everyone goes to for the NBA finals, Superbowl, and the Olympics. They have a ton of food, a ton of beer, and a ton of events like Halloween parties, karaoke, and trivia nights.

Trackside Bar & Grill ($$)

This fun venue has a ton of events that locals love. The live music here is out of this world, and the venue is huge, sporting more than 17 televisions and a ton of space for people to sit and eat or get up and dance.

Where to Live in East Shore

East Shore is a huge area, and there’s a ton of housing for people seeking affordable prices and extra space. Most homes are single-family, though there are some apartment complexes for those who are into that. Some of the best homes in the area include:

20 Cliff Street

This co-op in Shore Acres is perfect for those who want excellent views of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the water. Many homes here have access to outdoor spaces, parking garages, and laundry facilities.

Alex Circle

This classy little circle contains adorable waterside row houses built in the year 2000. One of many row house beauties in the area, Alex Circle homes include a private backyard space, two and three-story homes, and easy access to the beach.

45 Vera Street

These garden apartments are classy, spacious, and near a sizable park. Four buildings make up this complex. If you lived here, you’d be a co-op member, so you’d both own property and get a vote on how the entire complex is run.

100 Colfax Avenue

This beautiful red brick condo features large rooms, an outdoor parking lot, and easy access to a train station. The rooms are lined with hardwood flooring, save for the kitchens, and many windows allow plenty of natural light to enter the units.

34 Bay Terrace

This stunning co-op features some of the most beautiful townhomes on Staten Island. Each house has a decent number of bedrooms and bathrooms, easy access to a train station, and a pool only for co-op owners.

Parks of East Shore

East Shore has a ton of public parks for residents and visitors to enjoy. Some of the best public parks include:

Ocean Breeze Park

This large park rests next to Staten Island University’s North Campus Hospital. This park is home to the South Beach Wetlands and the Staten Island Rodeo. It’s also conveniently located right next to the South Beach Pier.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach

This park, named for the former president, is home to the Elm Tree Lighthouse, Miller Field Seaplane Hangar, and Millar Field, one of the largest outdoor athletic fields in the borough. It’s a popular place for people to gather for recreation leagues.

High Rock Park

This tranquil park holds some of the finest greenery in New York City. This place is filled with great hiking and light fishing spots, perfect for anyone who likes to enjoy the outdoors while not going too deep into the wilderness.

Traveling in East Shore

Staten Island is first and foremost a car-dominated borough. That said, there are other ways to get around. Some of the best means of public transportation include:

Trains

While there are no subway stations in Staten Island, residents can use the conveniently located stations for the Staten Island Railroad, which runs right through East Shore.

Buses

Several bus lines service East Shore. These include the S51, S52, S53, S54, S57, S74, S76, S78, S81, S86, S93, SIM1, SIM5, SIM6, and SIM15.

East Shore is a picturesque area full of the suburban life many New Yorkers never experience. Though a bit out of the way, this place is worth the trip for the beautiful beaches, large parks, and great Italian food around every corner. So while Staten Island might be looked down upon, its bad reputation is rather baseless, especially when looking at a great area like this. 

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How “The Bronx” Got Its Name

Probably the question asked most is why is it referred to as “The Bronx” instead of just “Bronx”? This then leads to the question of how the Bronx got its name in the first place. The answer to both is simple enough!

In 1639, a Swedish-born man named Jonas Bronck came to a Dutch settlement in New Amsterdam. There, he found Native Americans who sold him 680 acres of land.

The land was east of the Harlem River, below the line of present-day 150th Street. The area was known to the Natives as “Ranaqua”, or “the End Place,” as it was at the south end of an old trailway. The river that lay to the east of this land was known to the Natives as “Aquahung” – or the “River of High Places.” Once the land was sold to Bronck, it was referred to as “Bronck’s Land,” and the river was then called “Bronck’s River.” Bronck wanted the land for growing tobacco and brought others to work with him who also built farms on the land.

In April 1642, a peace treaty was negotiated and signed at Bronck’s homestead between Dutch authorities and the Weckquaesgeek sachems Ranaqua and Tackamuck

But in 1643, just 4 years after the land purchase, Bronck inexplicably died. It’s quite strange that there are no details on his death, as it must have been fairly sudden. Bronck would have only been 43 years old at the time of his death, and no records indicate he was ill.

His wife, Teuntie Joriaens, recorded a detailed inventory of the farm and his possessions in May of 1643, just after Bronck’s death. By June of 1643, Joriaens had remarried to a man named Arent van Curler, and moved away. Interestingly, Bronck had one of the most extensive libraries ever recorded at that time. The volumes within it indicate he was a highly educated man, revealing he was fluent in at least 4 languages.

After Bronck’s passing, eventually, the only aspect of the area that was named after him was the river, which over time had the “ck” of his name replaced for the easier to spell“x”. The borough went over 200 years with no official name until New York City received the land from Westchester County. Since the land was in the middle of the river, it received the name “The Bronx” instead of just “Bronx.”

How “Manhattan” Got Its Name

The story of how Manhattan got its name is fairly simple. It comes from the Native American Munsee Lenape language, where the term manaháhtaan roughly means “the place where we gather wood for bows,” as the area had a grove of hickory trees that were ideal for making bows. It was first recorded in writing as “Manna-hata”, in the 1609 logbook of Robert Juet, an officer on Henry Hudson’s yacht Halve Maen (Half Moon). It appears on a map in 1610 as Manna-hata. Originally, Manhattan was inhabited by the Munsee Lenape and Wappinger tribes.

How “Brooklyn” Got Its Name

Brooklyn’s etymology is also really simple as it is named after an ancient Dutch village in Holland called Breukelen. It is made up of two words: broeck, meaning marshland, and lede, meaning small stream in peat areas, specifically. On the American continent, Breukelen was established in 1646 and first seen in print in 1663. Interestingly, Brooklyn was its own official, independent, incorporated city – before it was an official village and town – until 1898, when it was finally consolidated with the rest of the boroughs to form New York City.

How “Queens” Got Its Name

One of the original 12 counties designated in 1683, Queens County is believed to be named for English Queen Catherine of Braganza, who reigned during this time, from 1638-1705. On one of Queens’ borders is Brooklyn, which lies in Kings County, which we know was named after King Charles II, husband of Queen Catherine. Richmond County (Staten Island), which also borders here, is named after King Charles II’s illegitimate son, the 1st Duke of Richmond. Thus it’s fairly clear that this is why Queens was so named, even though there was no official declaration to this effect.

How “Staten Island” Got Its Name

Last but certainly not least, the fifth and final borough in NYC is Staten Island. This section of NYC is so named for the Staten-Generaal (States General) of the Dutch Republic. In 1898, Staten Island became one of the five boroughs and was know as Richmond before being renamed Staten Island in 1975. Staten Island was originally spelled Staten Eylandt, and was referred to as this by Henry Hudson, an English explorer who disappeared in June of 1611. Henry Hudson was the explorer who had the vessel Halve Maen, referred to in the section above on Manhattan. Additionally, the Hudson River was named after him after he sailed up the river and laid the foundation for Dutch colonization there.

As the story goes, Hudson was on his final major voyage, again looking for the rumored Northwest Passage to Asia. He was the first European to see Hudson Strait and Hudson Bay. In 1611, Hudson was ready to press onward to the west after spending the winter on the shore of James Bay. Unfortunately for him, his crew objected in mutiny, putting him, his son, and seven other crew members who supported him and cast them adrift. They were never seen or heard from again.

These are the stories of how the five NYC boroughs got their names. We hope you’ve enjoyed them!

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New York City is located on what is called the ‘Atlantic Flyway’ which is a migratory path situated along the East Coast where birds follow during spring and fall migrations. The flyway begins in Greenland and continues down the East Coast down toward the Caribbean and South America. The path that birds follow is filled with resources such as improved ecological conditions, food, and ideal grounds for reproduction. Then, once it gets cold in the big city the birds head down South. 

Humans are not the only species of mammals that can appreciate some glorious tree foliage. Birds are a fan of this occurrence, but for reasons other than aesthetics. Grandiose foliage serves as an accommodation for migrating birds and becomes the bare bones for an attainable dwelling. In Manhattan alone there are roughly 230 bird species present all year round. However, in the spring this number doubles to almost 500 different kinds of birds. 

So, where can you secure your spot in one of the best bird viewing cities in the world? Thankfully, all five boroughs offer fantastic spaces in order to catch a glimpse of these spectacular creatures. This means that no matter where you are located there is most likely a birding site within close proximity waiting for you. 

Bird Watching in Manhattan

Central Park takes precedence over all other bird-watching locations in Manhattan. Not only is it extremely accessible by subway, bus, car, and walking, but it is considered one of the best birding locations in the northern hemisphere. You can visit any bodies of water within Central Park to see birds such as loons, ducks, and sometimes egrets. The North Woods, which is located mid-park between 101st and 110th street, offers 40 acres of ground for birding. 

If you have visited Central Park numerous times and are looking for new birding spots, you can also check out Bryant Park, Riverside Park, and The Battery. 

Bird Watching in The Bronx

The Bronx is surprisingly a remarkable place to go birding. A good portion of the Bronx offers large, open spaces despite the population density. There are a plethora of woodlands, marshes, and bays which are perfect habitats for birds. If you go to the right places you can see birds such as waterfowl, owls, egrets, herons, and songbirds. 

If you are looking to go birding in the Bronx, you should definitely check out Pelham Bay Park, Van Cortlandt Park, and the New York Botanical Garden. There are also a handful of parklands that sit along the western border, the Hudson River, and north to Wave Hill. 

Bird Watching in Brooklyn

Being the second-largest borough, right behind Queens, Brooklyn offers their residents and others who are interested a vast ground for bird watching. Because Brooklyn borders the East River, New York Bay, the Narrows, and Jamaica Bay there are a lot of wetlands which are areas in which birds often flock to. 

There are also grassland habitats that are situated in these parts of Brooklyn such as Coney Island Creek, Marine Park Preserve, Floyd Bennett Field, and Shirley Chisholm State Park. Not only does Brooklyn have wetlands and grassland habitats, but it also has a handful of parks that are suitable for bird watching and lounging. Two birds with one stone if you will. These migrant hotspots include Prospect Park, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Green-Wood Cemetery. 

Bird Watching in Queens

Bordering Brooklyn is a borough gem, also known as Queens. Why is it a gem you may ask? Well even if you don’t realize it, Queens takes up around 37% of New York’s total area. More land? More space to bird-watch. 

The western and northern shorelines of Queens border the East River and Long Island Sound. The southern shore opens up to Jamaica Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. By now you should know that bodies of water = success when it comes to birding. 

Luckily Queens is home to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and the Breezy Point District which are two ideal locations to watch birds. Then, you have Forest Park which is a loop of green spaces that span east alongside Queens. The Forest Park loop includes the Kissena Park corridor and ends at Alley Pond Park. 

Bird Watching on Staten Island

Last but not least is Staten Island, which is the last place most people think to go bird watching. However, because it is an island (surrounded by water), the amount of places to go birding is almost endless. 

There are around 2,000 acres of freshwater wetlands, tidal marshlands, and 60 miles of waterfront. This island practically begs for birds to come and migrate. The birding spots on Staten Island are Great Kills Park, Wolfe’s Pond Park, Mount Loretto Nature Preserve, Conference House Park, Clove Lakes Park, and Fresh Kills Park. 

Staten Island is a ton of fun and can be easily accessible by ferry. If you are interested in a little something different, birding on the island is highly recommended. On your ferry ride over be sure to keep an eye out because there are tons of birds on view from the boat! 

The post Bird Watching Locations in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

The idea of where we live being intertwined with our health has been floated for years, but this bill helps to put numbers to the idea. New Yorkers across the state are susceptible to environmental health challenges regardless of if you live in a quiet town upstate or in the city, this bill stands to link your location with health incidence, improving overall health for residents. 

What Are Cancer Incidence Maps?

Cancer incidence maps are a helpful tool for understanding which areas of a targeted geological area are experiencing cancer. In this case, it’s New York, and the provision set forth by the localized government allows for proper monitoring and effective solutions.

Geographically profiling cancer instances is not a new concept but often not one spoken about. When it comes down to it, the tracking of cancer on a map has been a reality for many years, even dating back to English plotting in the 19th century.

The Issue with Cancer Incidence Maps

It’s important to note that just because an individual lives in a county with elevated cancer rates does not necessarily mean they have an increased chance of cancer.

The Department of Health states, “If you live or lived in a county where the rate is higher than the New York State rate, it does not mean that you are more likely to get cancer than someone who lives in a county with a lower rate. Your risk depends on many things, including your lifestyle (smoking, diet), your family history, and contact you have with cancer-causing substances (sunlight, x-rays, tobacco smoke, some chemicals).”

In fact, some years, a county may have a lower rate while the next they have a higher one. Additionally, if a county is smaller, the cancer incidence rate will have a skewed effect on overall percentages. And while the maps can help to understand cancer rates in a county, a map cannot definitively state why a person developed cancer. The primary benefit is that it can show a correlation. Cancer often takes a while to develop, which relocation complicates.

A Case Study: Staten Island

While we’ll dive into more specific numbers below, an example of cancer incidence maps being useful is in the case of Staten Island. Through tracking, it was found that Staten Island was the borough with the highest rate of cancer in New York City. 

Armed with that knowledge, the New York Department of Health can work in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Conservation to seek an answer for why. In other words, what environmental factors are leading to higher rates of cancer in Staten Island?

In reality, it may be a cocktail of reasons why. In the case of Staten Island, a borough of NYC, air quality and emissions were equal, if not higher, than the state as a whole. Potential causes for higher levels that were later disproved included the potable water, which all of NYC uses, excess traffic, landfills, and Radon testing, all of which returned normal. 

In the end, despite Staten Island’s elevated cancer rates, there was no clear environmental factor to place blame on. However, knowing that Staten Island has an elevated rate encourages scientists to continue studying as there is a clear disparity in incident rates. 

More On Bill S8595

The renewal effort was presented by Todd Kaminsky of the 9th district and was co-sponsored by James Gaughran of the 5th district and Rachel May of the 53rd district. The extension is set to last an additional six years to expire on May 1st, 2028. All voted for the extension of the bill, with no naysayers on the floor. The bill effectively connects the issue of environmental conservation law and public health law to create this super map for tangible tracking.

As the justification portion of the proposal states, “The growth of cancer clusters in New York State has become a great concern. This bill would require the collection of cases of cancer throughout the State. This information is collected to help physicians and health care professionals determine if there are any environmental, occupational, or social factors that could lead to certain types of cancer.”

For more information on cancer incidence rates in your prospective county, including a breakdown by cancer type, visit Health.Ny.Gov.

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“With this investment, New York will lead the nation on offshore wind production, creating green jobs for New Yorkers, and powering our clean energy future,” Governor Hochul said. “I am proud to make New York a leader in offshore wind and renewable energy. We must harness the potential of offshore wind to fuel our economy forward and meet our ambitious climate goals.” 

New York City hopes to capitalize on the Governor’s huge investment with a new, planned offshore wind facility in the Rossville section of Staten Island. The project will be at 2629 Arthur Kill Road, totaling 33-acres on the Arthur Kill Channel. The site includes 2,000 feet of shoreline and easy access to the West Shore Expressway, near the Outerbridge Crossing to New Jersey.

The new wind farm also falls in line with Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign promise to transform New York City into a major hub for wind energy and wind turbine manufacturing plants. Adams, as a mayoral candidate said, “New York City has always been a hub for innovation, new ideas, and progressive thinking. There is no reason New York City shouldn’t be a leader in wind power. We have the resources, and we can foster the talent — we just have not had the leadership to get it done.”

NYC’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC) recently released a request for proposals (RFP) for developers to construct an offshore wind farm in Rossville. The EDC wants a developer to develop the facility and create good-paying manufacturing and industrial jobs for low-income individuals in the area. 

According to the RFP, the wind farm should “create a jobs center on the waterfront with an emphasis on good-paying manufacturing and industrial jobs, including the delivery of a comprehensive hiring and wage program that supports local communities and creates broad-based opportunity, with a focus on opportunities for low-income persons.”

It’s not clear yet how many jobs the site will support, but the planned Rossville wind farm is just the latest wind energy facility announced in NYC. In March, Mayor Eric Adams announced a deal with two petroleum companies to transform the vacant South Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Sunset Park, Brooklyn into operations and maintenance facility for an offshore wind project called Empire Wind 1. 

The Marine Terminal development will also serve as a power interconnection site for the Empire Wind 1. The project will generate an estimated 816 megawatts of power for New York City once it’s completed in 2026. 

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