City Island offers a great retreat just minutes from Manhattan, with fresh seafood restaurants on the waterfront.
The Bronx’s small island is similar to Cape Cod and the Hamptons. It offers coastal towns just minutes away from New York City.
City Island lies in the Bronx, as a part of Pelham Islands. It is located at the extreme western end of Long Island Sound.
Although the island is only 1.5 miles wide and a half mile long, and its population is less than 5,000 people, it’s not short on activities or events.
Here, we round up everything you need to know to travel to City Island.
Why City Island?
City Island is open all year round, but it’s most popular from May to October. It offers a quiet escape away from the city without leaving the five boroughs.
City Island, located in Manhattan’s Midtown area, is just half an hour away by subway.
City Island, a rich historical site, is also known for its New England vibe and tasty seafood.
Johnny’s Reef Restaurant and City Island Lobster House are two popular spots to dine, offering steamed and fried local seafood.
There are many other restaurants that serve delicious food.
The island’s small size means that visitors can enjoy waterfront views almost everywhere. This makes for some great photo opportunities.
City Island offers a number of interesting antique shops, in addition to its seafood and stunning waterfront views.
City Island Avenue is a great place to browse the shopfronts in search of an antique item that will make a unique souvenir.
The best CITY ISLAND VACATION DEALS?
City Island can be a wonderful day trip from New York City.
There are no hotels on the island because it is too small.
Renting a home in one of the five boroughs may seem appealing, but it’s probably not worth your time.
Hotels in Manhattan and the Bronx are available for as little as $200 per room.
LaGuardia International Airport, in terms of flights, is the closest airport to Bronx.
Los Angeles and Chicago are among the most popular cities to fly one-stop, nonstop, or with a stopover, from their airports.
Roundtrip tickets to LaGuardia are available for around $200 depending on when you book.
Depending on where you want to go in New York, either John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Newark Liberty International Airport (Newark Liberty International Airport) are viable options.
Public transportation is a great alternative to renting a car for your trip.
CITY ISLAND IS A WORLD-CLASS PLACE.
City Island was formerly occupied in the 1600s by the Lenape. It has an interesting history.
Many early English settlers are fishermen, a legacy that is still evident today. This island has remained famous for its fish offerings.
City Island was not a part of New York City until 1895, when residents voted for it to be.
City Island is lined with historic landmarks and homes. Many of these are part of the walking tour.
You will see over twenty important businesses and buildings on the island.
William H. Schofield is a good example. This home dates back to the 1860s and was designated as a New York City historic landmark.
There are many waterfront bungalows, cottages, and mansions on the island.
City Island provides great views of Manhattan as well as waterfront photography opportunities.
Not to mention, it served as a filming location for a handful of films including Long Day’s Journey Into Night and A Bronx Tale.
WHY NOT GO TO CITY ISLAND AND DO SOMETHING ELSE?
City Island has a wide range of festivals and fairs depending on the season.
The Fall Arts & Crafts Fair is typically held in early September and features a clam chowder festival.
Local small business owners and local vendors are usually present and sell jewelry, artwork, clothing and other products.
City Island has many boutiques, where one can find antiques or artwork.
City Island Avenue is a great place to visit the most popular restaurants and shopping on the island.
The Cinema On The Sound offers the sole movie theater in the area for anyone looking to see a flick.
City Island Nautical Museum offers guests the opportunity to discover more history about this area.
It has a collection of photographs and artwork, a library and community and school rooms, besides displaying nautical and maritime themes.
Plan your visit accordingly as this museum only opens on Sundays and Saturdays between 1pm and 4pm.
City Island offers a wide variety of tasty treats and eats, including delicious seafood.
Lickity Split Ice Cream Shop is one such place. It is run by Bronx residents and has become a popular destination on the island.
City Island, located adjacent to Pelham Bay Park (New York City’s biggest public park with over 2,770 acres), is the second largest island in New York City.
If you’re looking for more fun, head to the park.
WHAT IS ELSE I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CITY ISLAND
LaGuardia Airport is located approximately 30 minutes away from City Island.
City Island is at its best during the summer, especially in the months of May and Juniper.
Be aware, however, that the months of May and July tend to be the most busy on the island.
City Island Bridge is only accessible by car and bus.
New York City’s transit system is the best way to reach the island without a vehicle.
Take the 6 subway train all the way to the end and exit at Pelham Bay Park.
There’s also a City Island bus which will drop you off directly at City Island.
During rush hour, another bus will run to Manhattan for locals.
Visitors can enjoy a great adventure by walking the City Island Bridge.