Overview & visitor information
Governors Island has seven miles of car-free cycling paths across a compact island in New York Harbor. Rental fleets near the ferry landings include multi-seat surreys for two to six riders, along with standard bicycles, children's equipment and pedal cars, making group cycling part of the island's recreational identity.
The routes pass former military buildings, Colonels Row, Nolan Park, open lawns and the contemporary landscapes of the Hills. Unlike city-street cycling, the network is separated from regular motor traffic, although service vehicles and other cyclists still share portions of the route. Harbor views change continuously around the island's perimeter.
A surrey is wider and heavier than an ordinary bicycle, and its shared pedals make the ride collaborative rather than fast. The vehicle suits the island's short distances and broad paths, connecting ferry arrivals with playgrounds, picnic areas, public art and outlooks toward Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn and the Statue of Liberty.
