How to Spend a Zero-Dollar Saturday on Staten Island
A free ferry past the Statue of Liberty, a 9/11 memorial on the St. George waterfront, and a car-free Halloween street.
🗺️ The Route at a Glance
🚢 Around Noon · Free Ferry from Whitehall
Whitehall Terminal sits at the southern tip of Lower Manhattan, beside the South Ferry subway stations. The ferry runs around the clock and charges no fare. Aim for a boat around noon and stand on the right side of the deck for a close pass of the Statue of Liberty on the way out. The crossing takes about 25 minutes, and departure times are posted in the terminal.
🕊️ Early Afternoon · Postcards 9/11 Memorial
A short walk along the St. George waterfront leads to Postcards, the Staten Island September 11 Memorial, dedicated in 2004. Its two white wings frame the harbor view toward the former World Trade Center site, and granite plaques inside carry the profile, name, and birth date of each Staten Island resident killed in the attacks. Entry is free, and 30 to 40 minutes is enough here. From the memorial, walking south on Bay Street to Water Street takes 30 to 40 minutes and costs nothing. The Staten Island Railway covers the same stretch in two stops for a standard MTA fare.
🎃 Around 2 PM · Trick-or-Streets on Water Street
On Saturday, October 24, Water Street closes to cars between Canal Street and Beach Street for NYC DOT's Staten Island Trick-or-Streets signature event, open 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM with the Van Duzer Civic Association and NYC KidsFest. Organizers have announced a costume contest, live music, and face painting, plus costume trick-or-treating along the block. Arriving around 2:00 PM leaves ample time to explore the festival activities. Entry is free, and food from Stapleton shops is extra. The walk and ferry back to Manhattan take extra time. Events may be delayed or canceled, and NYC DOT posts updates on its Trick-or-Streets page.
