20 Attractions to Explore Near William T Davis Wildlife Refuge

Freshkills Park is a groundbreaking and ambitious project that aims to transform a former landfill into a vibrant and sustainable public park in Staten Island, New York City. Situated on the site of the former Fresh Kills Landfill, which was once the largest landfill in the world, the park is an extraordinary example of environmental restoration and urban planning.The park's transformation began in the early 2000s when the landfill ceased operations.

Willowbrook Park is a serene and expansive green space located in Staten Island, New York City. Covering over 164 acres, the park offers a variety of recreational activities, natural beauty, and cultural attractions, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.The park is known for its wide-open spaces, lush meadows, and scenic landscapes, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Staten Island is one of the five boroughs of New York City, located in Richmond County in the state of New York. It is separated from Manhattan and Brooklyn by the Upper New York Bay to the west, and from the Bronx and the rest of the mainland by the Kill Van Kull and Arthur Kill to the north and east. The borough, which covers an area of over 60 square miles, is known for its rich history, scenic views, and vibrant culture.

The New York City Farm Colony, located on Staten Island, was a historic institution established in the late 19th century to provide housing and care for the poor, elderly, and mentally ill. Originally known as the Richmond County Poor Farm, it was designed as a self-sufficient community where residents could work on farmland and participate in various industries.

The Greenbelt Nature Center is a captivating destination nestled within the Staten Island, a vast network of natural areas and parks on Staten Island. The nature center serves as an environmental education hub and a gateway to the natural wonders and diverse ecosystems found throughout the Greenbelt.Managed by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the Greenbelt Nature Center offers a range of engaging and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

La Tourette Golf Course is a premier golfing destination situated within the picturesque La Tourette Park, the golf course offers a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.Designed by renowned golf course architect David W. Gordon, La Tourette Golf Course features 18 holes spread across rolling hills and scenic landscapes. The course's design incorporates natural elements, including mature trees, water hazards, and bunkers.

Historic Richmond Town is an authentic town and farm museum complex in the neighbourhood of Richmondtown, Staten Island, in New York City. The town consists of more than 30 historic buildings and sites dating from the late 17th to the early 20th centuries.

The Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art preserves United States' most extensive collections of Himalayan artefacts. The museum was created by Jacques Marchais, (1887-1948) an American woman, to serve as a bridge between the West and the rich ancient and cultural traditions of Tibet and the Himalayan region.

The Goethals Bridge is a vital transportation link that connects Staten Island, New York City, to Elizabeth, New Jersey, over the Arthur Kill, a tidal strait. This iconic bridge is one of the major crossings in the New York metropolitan area, serving as a critical route for commuters, commercial traffic, and travelers.Opened in 1928, the Goethals Bridge was one of the earliest vehicular bridges connecting Staten Island to mainland New Jersey.

Bayonne Bridge is the fifth-longest steel arch bridge in the world, and was the longest in the world at the time of its completion(1931). The bridge is connecting New Jersey with Staten Island.

The Staten Island Boat Graveyard, also known as the Arthur Kill Boat Graveyard, is a fascinating and eerie site located on the northeastern shore of Staten Island. It is an area where numerous decommissioned and abandoned vessels, including old boats, ships, and barges, have been left to rest and decay over the years.The origins of the boat graveyard trace back to the mid-20th century when the area was used as a salvage yard for retired and damaged maritime vessels.

Clove Lakes Park is a picturesque and expansive urban oasis located in Staten Island, New York City. Encompassing over 193 acres, the park offers a peaceful and natural escape from the bustling cityscape, providing visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities and serene landscapes to explore.The park is characterized by its namesake lakes, which are the central attractions.

The Staten Island Zoo is a popular and family-friendly attraction located in Staten Island, New York City. Established in 1936, the zoo spans 8 acres and is home to an impressive collection of animals from around the world.As the only zoo in New York City, the Staten Island Zoo offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a diverse array of wildlife in a more intimate and accessible setting.

Great Kills Park is a picturesque and diverse recreational area located on Staten Island, New York City. Spanning over 580 acres, the park offers a range of outdoor activities, natural beauty, and cultural attractions, making it a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.The park's centerpiece is its beautiful shoreline along Great Kills Harbor and Lower New York Bay, providing visitors with access to sandy beaches and tranquil waterfront views.

Sandy Ground Historical Inc. is a nonprofit organization and historical society located on Staten Island, New York City, dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history and heritage of Sandy Ground, one of the oldest free Black communities in the United States.Sandy Ground, originally known as "Little Africa," was settled by free Black families in the early 19th century, primarily by descendants of African-Americans who had been emancipated from slavery.

The South Beach–Franklin Delano Roosevelt Boardwalk stretches 2.5 miles (4.0 km) between Fort Wadsworth to the north and Miller Field to the south. It is one of New York City’s four spacious beachfront areas.

Silver Lake Park is a beautiful and serene urban oasis spanning over 209 acres, the park offers a variety of recreational activities, lush green spaces, and scenic landscapes, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.The park is named after the picturesque Silver Lake, a man-made lake created in the late 19th century. The lake's tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty add to the park's charm and appeal.

The New York Chinese Scholar's Garden, located within the Snug Harbor Cultural Center, is a breathtaking oasis that transports visitors to the tranquil beauty of ancient Chinese gardens. Inspired by traditional Chinese garden design principles, this enchanting space is a harmonious blend of nature, architecture, and art.Designed by a team of artisans and craftsmen from China, the Chinese Scholar's Garden is a true marvel of cultural collaboration and authentic craftsmanship.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is the result of more than three decades of restoration to convert the first home for retired sailors in the United States to a regional arts center.

The Staten Island Children's Museum is a vibrant and interactive learning center dedicated to inspiring creativity, curiosity, and exploration among children and families. The museum offers a wide range of exhibits and activities designed to engage young minds and foster a love of learning.The museum's mission is to provide a nurturing and educational environment where children can play, discover, and make meaningful connections with the world around them.