Situated in the heart of New York City Harbor, you’ll find Governors Island: a landmark only 800 yards from Lower Manhattan and even closer to Brooklyn. Closed to the public for almost two centuries, it is now a cultural hub for New Yorkers and tourists alike. The island also houses what may be NYC’s best-kept secret: the retreat known as Collective Governors Island (@collectiveretreats).
An eight-minute cruise along the Harbor via private water taxi is the sole way to access the picturesque campgrounds. The luxurious glamping accommodations draw inspiration from minimalistic Scandinavian design, while also incorporating maritime trinkets that pay homage to Governor Island’s naval history.
Despite the rustic glamour of the designer-furnished tents and the expansive Great Lawn boasting the best views of Manhattan and the harbor, the food and beverage offerings alone are truly worth the trip (so long as you can get a reservation!).
Begin with craft cocktails at Sunset Terrace, the Instagrammable outdoor bar. Just steps away along the wooden porch sits the dining tent known as Three Peaks Lodge. Restaurant-goers are instantly welcomed into the canvas-enclosed space with candlelight, live music, and savory aromas wafting from the kitchen.
The evening that ensues is a Processo-fueled culinary dream filled with generous portions (unlike many metropolitan counterparts) and seasonal delicacies prepared with the utmost attention to detail, ranging from farm-fresh fare to locally-sourced seafood.
After appetizers, main dishes, and of course, dessert are served, doting staff surprise diners with the opportunity to indulge in an elevated spin on a classic treat: S’mores. To-go boxes are neatly packed with artisanal dark chocolate squares, graham crackers, marshmallows, and roasting sticks. Toast marshmallows beside one of the many fire pits along the Great Lawn while taking in the twinkling city skyline.
Whether you’re coming from near or far, the Collective Governors Island and its array of appetizing options are surely worth trading your city shoes for sea legs, if only for a few hours.
