Whitehall Terminal — Attraction in New York

My recent visit to the Whitehall Staten Island Ferry Terminal in Manhattan impressed me. This historic terminal, a cornerstone of New York City's transportation system, has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1903.

The terminal is not just a transportation hub but part of the city's heritage. With its two stories, the stunning architectural design offers visitors a waiting room on the first floor and a passenger level on the second floor. From the waiting room, you can gaze out of the large glass wall, enjoying breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the iconic Manhattan skyline.

One of the remarkable things about the Whitehall Terminal is that it's open 24/7, ensuring convenience for travelers at all hours. The Staten Island Ferry ride from this terminal is not just a commute; it's a scenic journey that takes about 25 minutes. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's beauty, and the best part is that it's entirely free.

With over 20 million passengers yearly, the Staten Island Ferry is one of New York City's most popular tourist attractions, and the Whitehall Terminal serves as its gateway. The terminal is a vital transportation link and a vibrant tourist destination.

As you explore the terminal, you'll immerse yourself in its storied past, with nods to its historical significance as a municipal ferry terminal. From the classic design to the modern renovations in 1991 and 2005, the Whitehall Terminal seamlessly blends the old and the new.

Visiting this terminal is not just a commute; it's a journey through history and a chance to take in some of the most iconic views in the world. If you're in New York City, a Whitehall Staten Island Ferry Terminal trip is an absolute must. It's an experience that combines the convenience of modern transportation with the charm of the city's past, all while providing breathtaking vistas of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan...

It's hard not to notice the front facade of the building with its bold "STATEN ISLAND FERRY" letters in blue and white calling travelers in and to take selfies in front of. I had no idea that the ferry was a free service. That's pretty amazing especially in this day and age of fees and nickel and diming everything possible. Just head up the stairs or escalators and wait for the next departure time which is every half hour. No need to reserve or pickup tickets.

DEPARTURE: Holy hell, the a/c was broken in the entire terminal. It was July, and the east was experiencing a heatwave. Needless to say, the sauna-like conditions were very miserable. The place was jam-packed resulting in added body heat and damp smelling humans. There were zero open windows or doors to provide relief. A few eateries and shops were open but I didn't pay much attention to them as we wanted to just get out of the agony.

The majority of the herd were waiting to jet out and board at what turned out to be the wrong gate. Luckily we read the scrolling info above and stood in the middle of the two gates, got on before the majority of the people, and scored choice seats on the starboard side of the ferry (for the best view of Manhattan and the Statue.) Boarding was pretty quick. I thought seating would be tight but the ferry was bigger than I expected and had lots of room to spread out and be comfortable.

ARRIVAL: After returning from Staten Island, you exit the terminal through a different area, totally avoiding the departing crowds. Very organized.

TIP: The terminal is pretty picturesque on the water side. Great photo ops are available!

OVERALL: Free, clean, organized. I'm sure the broken a/c was just a rift that's soon...

I’m a native New Yorker and I grew up riding this ferry from way back when when my dad used to drive us out here and load his car onto the ferry as well... it’s only for walk-ons now, but being back, visiting family over the holidays, even during covid, this is a great, cheap (free!) NYC sightseeing must! Board Staten Island ferry and get on the right side where you will see Lady Liberty on the right on the ride to SI. There are tons of eateries and shops and outlet stores on the SI side now (something they never had back in the day!) so, stop there, eat, shop, and hop back onto a NYC bound ferry!

On the way back, board onto the left side so you can see the sights as you face downtown/ Wall street on the approach to the harbor! If nothing else, with covid and all, and even before this, NYC never has that many public bathrooms...the ferry terminal is easy to find, and there are bathrooms on the 2nd level (in the gigantic, open hall/boarding-waiting area). It’s warm, it’s indoors, there’s a Dunkin’ Donuts, a Subway, a pizza place, a Wendy’s, an Auntie Annie’s pretzel shop, and a souvenir shop. Everything you need to recharge as a tourist or even a local that has kids and needs a moment to rest, use bathrooms, even charge your phone...

Everyone should make this a MUST SEE/STOP. There are NYPD and plainclothes cops here and there and it’s safe. Even for moms with a double stroller, you can maneuver! The terminal has elevators, escalators, and stairs. Super accessible. I did it 10 years ago with my citymini double stroller :) it was super nice to have children who could walk on their own, though, because the boarding ramps are a bit steep :)

Again, it’s FREE!!! Take this ferry! We New...