…wrote the guidebook to the Island. In the two hour tour, I was able to get an overview of the island. Fitzpatrick mixed history with antidote and kept us moving through the island’s history…
Insider Knowledge
Stunning Views
Expert Author & Guide
Come on the Longest Running Governors Island Walking Tour With Author of the Governors Island Explorer’s Guide
Learn the secrets of Governors Island on a walking tour led by the author who wrote the only guide book to the island. Once a military post from the American Revolution to the Cold War, today it is a jewel in New York Harbor that is a destination for peace, picnics, and playgrounds just 10 minutes from Manhattan.
Great for anyone who wants to learn about the island’s past, present, and future. We’ll visit Governors Island attractions such as abandoned army buildings, lost cemeteries, two historic forts, and enjoy breathtaking views of New York Harbor. This is an active walking tour of pathways and hills, spanning approximately 2.5 miles.
Your guide is Kevin C. Fitzpatrick, author of The Governors Island Explorer’s Guide, who has been leading this tour since 2006 – longer than any other tour guide. Designed for tourists, locals, families, and groups of friends, you’ll visit more than thirty locations and come away with a deep understanding of the area.
Why Choose Our Tour?
Discover island military life from 1775 to 1996
Learn about dark secrets and see where the bodies are (literally) buried
Trace the route of the lost Army Governors Island Rail Road
Climb Outlook Hill to see the Statue of Liberty and 360-degree Harbor views
See rare photos, maps, and drawings from the guide’s personal collection
Listen to narration by Kevin C. Fitzpatrick, the author of The Governors Island Explorer’s Guide
Click the tabs to find out more
Trip Details
Trip details
Price
- Adults – $55
- Student – $45
- Veterans – $35
- Youth – $30
Day of the week available
Daily
Meeting point
Battery Maritime Building, 10 South Street or on the island at the Visitors Center. Confirmation will be in the email, along with your ticket.
Availability
Year round
Duration
2.5 hours
Group size
- Min – 2 people
- Max – 45 people
Included
- Ferry fare
- Knowledgeable & licensed guide
Not included
Gratuities for superior service
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Bottled water
- Cash for snacks & beverages
- Cash for crew gratuities
Tour staff
Licensed and expert tour guide to lead you safely around the island
Good to Know
- Small groups are welcome.
- Private corporate and school tours are available.
- Wear shoes good for going over uneven surfaces, grassy hills.
See What Our Customers Say About Us
The tour is very interesting, with information provided about the island’s use by the U.S. Army and Coast Guard dating from pre-evolutionary times right through 1996 and its designation as a National Landmark in 2001. In addition to the military history, Kevin provides other historic trivia about the island and takes you off the paved route for additional points of interest…
Our group had an amazing day on Governors Island thanks to Kevin! He is an extremely knowledgeable and interesting guide and could not have been easier or nicer to work with in setting up our tour. I highly recommend a tour with Kevin!
I need to spread the word of how thoughtful, friendly, thorough and informative Kevin is. His tour made the entire experience a treat.
He was very flexible and skillfully adapted to our changing situation.
Thank you so much, for the excellent and informative tour of Gov Island, last week. I learned a lot and was entertained too. I must return and explore more of this wonderful place. You are top notch.
…We felt very fortunate to have taken the tour with him. Who knew all this information on Govenors Island? I’m a native New Yorker and this seemed like a big secret. Our group all enjoyed our tour. Don’t miss this tour with Kevin…..
I hired Kevin for my birthday to give me and a group of friends a private historical tour of Governors Island. Kevin is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also has a love for history and that comes through. He patiently answered all of our questions and gave us a stellar tour, which ended at the restaurant for lunch. It was a perfect day…
