Waterfront Fortifications and New York’s Open-Air Side
Fort Wadsworth opens its waterfront trails and beach free from 6 AM to 9 PM. Framboise Patisserie bakes croissant sandwiches with just four tables, and Francis Lewis Park launches kayaks under the Whitestone Bridge.
Staten Island and Queens
Fort Wadsworth on Foot
Historic waterfront fortifications sit beside open parkland, and walking trails continue through the grounds. Beach access is available, with bridge and skyline views across the water. Public access is free each day, and recorded hours run from 6 AM to 9 PM daily. Dog and bike use are supported here. Together, these features combine history, recreation, and waterfront scenery. Campgrounds add another option for a longer outdoor visit in the same open air setting, alongside walks, rides, and views beside the water.
A Brief Patisserie Interlude
The cafe serves pastries with coffee, while savory croissant sandwiches add another option. Seating is limited to three small indoor tables and one outdoor picnic table. Outside, one picnic table marks the limit of the available seating. Recorded hours run daily from half past six in the morning until eight at night. Cakes and pastries anchor the sweet side of the menu beside coffee and the savory sandwich option, while seating remains a modest part of the bakery and cafe itself.
Paddles and Play Ashore
Along the East River shoreline, Francis Lewis Park pairs Whitestone Bridge views with grassy seating and active recreation. Kayaks and canoes can use the park launch access, but the water is not open for swimming. On land, spray showers and playgrounds provide separate recreation spaces. Handball, bocce, and pickleball courts add more ways to move, and grassy seating leaves room to pause beside the river. Entry is free, and recorded hours run daily from six in the morning until nine at night.
