Hearing people ask, “Is Brooklyn an Island,” isn’t surprising. Its location and status has been debated over the years.
By the way, the United States of America boasts 18,617 claimed islands. America is fifth in the number of islands it has. In other words, it’s behind countries like Sweden, Norway, Finland and Canada. However, Hawaii Island remains the biggest island in the United States of America, covering over 75 square miles.
In this post, the focus is on Brooklyn. Is this NYC borough an island? Keep reading for more details.
Is Brooklyn An Island?
Brooklyn is part of Long Island but is not called an island. Queens is another borough that’s technically part of Long Island.
Below are islands you’ll find in New York City:
- Staten Island
- Manhattan
- Governors Island
- Randall’s and Wards Island
Each island contributes unique character and charm to the city’s vibrant tapestry. They provide a healthy mix of cultural havens, urban energy, and serene escapes amidst the bustling metropolis.
The Islands of New York City
New York City boasts several islands that adorn its magnificent cityscape. Below are islands that form part of New York City.
1: Manhattan:
Manhattan is an essential island in NYC. It is bursting with energy and features several iconic landmarks. Time Squares’ dazzling lights and mix of several Wall Street towering skyscrapers make this island super gorgeous.
This island also features an urban playground that ensures you have non-stop fun. The cultural mosaic that defines the Big Apple, vibrant neighborhood, and historic attractions make Manhattan an island worth visiting. In fact, there is never a dull moment when you’re in Manhattan unless you decide to stay in your shell.
2: Roosevelt Island:
Are you seeking a place to cool off, and stay far from urban chaos? Roosevelt Island is a wise choice. Sitting between Queens and Manhattan, Roosevelt Island is a gorgeous island.
You can gain access to this adorable island via various means. These include the Iconic Queensboro Bridge or Roosevelt Island Tramway.
What does Roosevelt Island have that sets it apart? Things that instantly capture your attention are the scenic promenades, Waterfront Park, and Manhattan Skyline’s irresistible view.
A Handy Tip: Roosevelt Island was used as a quarantine zone years ago and boasts an iconic mental institution.
3: Staten Island:
Staten Island offers a great escape route if you want to hide from the city’s fast-paced lifestyle. The island is connected to the mainland via the famous Staten Island Ferry.
What is there to explore at Staten Island? This island features more to keep you hooked, engaged, and happy. In addition to the greenery of Snug Harbor, which you can explore, you can admire the Statue of Liberty.
If you want to take a walk, St. George’s charming street is a great place to start. Keep your body fit and your eyes filled with images of gorgeous side attractions the island boasts.
4: Governors Island:
Once a military outpost, Governors Island has transformed into a cultural haven. Today, it hosts several historic events, such as outdoor concerts, vibrant art installations, and memorable festivals.
This island has been one of the places visitors and locals visit to unwind. It boasts plenty of green spaces and allows bike riders to rent a bike.
5: Randall’s and Wards Island:
From the name “Randall’s and Ward,” anyone can guess how effortlessly gorgeous this island is. Situated in the East River, Randall’s and Wards connect a range of bridges.
This island offers you a serene escape route from the iconic urban landscape. But there is more. You can take your exploration to another level by visiting Randall’s Island Park.
The park features over 8 miles of bike and pedestrian pathways, with most of the path running along the waterfront. Feed your eyes with views of the city’s skyline and river.
So, these 5 islands shaped the landscape and show why New York is often called the city that never sleeps.
How Many Islands Does New York Have?
New York is home to a wide range of islands. It boasts over 1,700 islands in total. These islands differ in shape, size, character and form a diverse archipelago stretching across rivers, lakes, and coastlines.
Here are some of the islands in New York State
- Heart Island
- City Island
- Hart Island
- Governors Island
- Long Island
- Roosevelt Island
- Wellesley Island
- Fire Island National Seashore
10 Best Attractions In Brooklyn
Are you visiting Brooklyn anytime soon and planning to visit iconic landmarks in the borough? If yes, this section should interest you. Brooklyn boasts several attractions that will make you love the borough even more.
We wrote about some of the attractions in Brooklyn to help you plan areas to visit on your next trip. Keep reading for more details.
1: The Brooklyn Bridge:
The Brooklyn Bridge was the world’s largest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883. But even though it no longer holds this record, the Brooklyn Bridge remains an iconic landmark in New York City.
Over 100,000 vehicles drive past the Gothic towers every single day. And this also includes sightseers and pedestrians, as thousands use this bridge daily.
So whether you’re on a bike, foot, or car, the views from this bridge will stun you. Besides Brooklyn Heights, you’ll spot lower Manhattan and other beautiful places.
2: Prospect Park
This park offers visitors the opportunity to reconnect with nature. In addition, you’ll have diverse opportunities to have fun. For instance, you can embark on a guided hike or explore the Ravine, an indigenous forest in the city.
Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, the iconic designers behind the famous Central Park, designed this park.
3: Brooklyn Museum:
This 560,000-square-foot venue, a preeminent cultural institution in King’s County, is the first American museum to showcase African objects as artwork. You’ll find over 4,000 artworks in the Egyptian holdings, and a whole center is dedicated to feminist art.
4: Brooklyn Botanic Garden:
If you care about your peace of mind and want to hide from the hustle and bustle in the city, spend time in this verdant oasis called Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
Founded in 1910, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden features hundreds of flora spread over 52 acres. A visit to this garden during spring will leave you stunned. Hundreds of people visit this garden during spring to see tons of cherry blossoms bloom.
5: Coney Island Cyclone:
How much do you know about the Coney Island Cyclone? This wooden coaster dates back to 1927, during Coney Island’s heyday.
Today, it has become a national historic landmark, a recognition it deserves. The Coney Island Cyclone is part of the latest Luna Park.
Spring and summer are the ideal periods to visit this area, as the Cyclone thrills riders during these periods. In addition to having fun, there is plenty to eat on this ground.
6: New York Aquarium:
This aquarium is the only structure you’ll find in New York. And a visit to the aquarium is worth it. Feed your eyes with the Pacific coastline’s living re-creation. There are also diverse East River Species, sea jellies, and sharks that will stun you.
Glover’s Reef is another area you should visit during the summer period. It features a 150-gallon tank housing approximately 35 marine species from the coast of Belize, including moray eels and jawfish.
7: Brooklyn Bridge Park:
The Brooklyn Bridge Park is an amazing park that transformed a defunct storage and shipping complex into a must-visit urban playground. It boasts picnic areas, terraces, and athletic fields.
There is a restored and functional 1920s merry-go-round, Jane’s Carousel, you should consider visiting.
8: Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM):
BAM is one of the iconic cultural institutions in Brooklyn. It showcases both out-of-town and local companies. Visit the Howard Gilman Opera House, a stunning dance venue. The carved marble and Federal-style columns make this venue so attractive.
Fall is always a great time to be in this area to enjoy the Next Wave Festival, highlighting various accomplished and experimental dance groups.
Spring is also an excellent time to be here. You’ll find various African and modern dances, including ballet.
9: Brooklyn Children’s Museum:
Established in 1899, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum was America’s first Children’s Museum. Today, the BCM has established itself as one of the most complex museums, boasting over 30,000 objects, masks, musical instruments, fossils, and dolls. You can bring your kids here to have fun and learn.
Conclusion
Is Brooklyn an Island? Brooklyn is part of Long Island, just as Queens. But it isn’t called an island. There are several islands in New York City, and Brooklyn isn’t one of them. These include Manhattan, Governors Island, and Staten Island.
Brooklyn boasts several iconic attractions that are worth visiting. Besides the historic Brooklyn Bridge, you can visit Prospect Park, Brooklyn Botanical Garden, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Children’s Museum, and others.
