Governors island is only 800 yards from manhattan andit was off limitsto the public for 200 years this former military base is nownew yorks greatest new park you will takea short8 minute ferry ride from manhattan that offers amazing views of the harbor then you will head out to explore the historic buildings walk alonglandscaped paths learn about three centuries of new york history and take in breathtaking views of the city from the harbor you wont believe youre so close to the h