No, I haven't been away on another cruise on the Queen Mary 2, but I am on a wonderful adventure I'll be telling you about soon!
As promised, I wanted to show you more about Governors Island. My part one post about the island can be read here. The magnificent Cunard cruise line's Queen Mary 2 was docked at the new Brooklyn, New York Cruise terminal and was visible across Buttermilk Channel from Governor's island in New York Harbor. Notice the size of the NYC Water Taxi passing by the ship!
There are many plans to convert the former military base of Governors Island into park land and public spaces in the future, but right now a visit to the island is very enjoyable, just for the spectacular views! My husband and I sat on a park bench like this one, in the north eastern section of the island, for quite a while enjoying this wonderful view of lower Manhattan.
It was so relaxing watching the sail boats....
....and the ferries.....
...and even a clipper ship passed by.
I enjoyed seeing the juxtaposition between the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan bridge in this photo.
Walking a little further west on the northern area of Governors Island we passed a New York City Water Taxi Beach. It is a waterfront spot for great music all summer long from its concert stage, with food and drinks available for purchase, along with more spectacular views of lower Manhattan.
Walking further west on the 2.2 mile long perimeter promenade of the island we pass the historic Castle Williams, which is a circular fortification of red sandstone on the northwest point of Governors Island, part of a system of forts designed and constructed in the early 1800s to protect New York City from naval attack. It is a prominent landmark in New York Harbor. It is presently undergoing restoration
Walking further on the promenade, on its western side, we see the Statue of Liberty appear in the distance.
There is a little park in this vicinity with swings for children, and also some seat swings that fit two adults. Here I am swinging and enjoying the view of Lady Liberty in the harbor!
Here is the informational placard about the Statue of Liberty that was in the area, and a view of the swing I was on in the background.
This area is named "Picnic Point." This new eight acre space on Governors Island’s south western shore was developed after ten old, but not historic, former Coast Guard apartment buildings were demolished.
Picnic Point provides picnic tables, red Adirondack chairs and hammocks available for all to enjoy.
I can never tire looking at this beautiful lady!
Now we turn in our walk along the southern perimeter of the island.
It is this area where we first saw the Queen Mary 2.
Walking close to the south eastern part of the island we passed the Trapeze School New York (TSNY) and Big Apple Circus offers Flying Trapeze Lessons on the Parade Ground area on Governors Island. While not a permanent activity it is one of the many rotating fun events available on the island during the summer.
Governors Island is really a remarkable place to spend the day! The views, activities, picnic opportunities, music, art exhibits and more all add up to a family friendly public space and a wonderful addition to New York City Parks. It is open to visitors this year on Fridays, Saturday and Sunday until early October, and it will re-open again in the Spring of 2011. If you have the opportunity to visit it you won't be disappointed. I know I'll be spending much more time on the island in the future!
I won't have much computer access in the next few days so please be patient with me. I'll be reading all your comments and visiting your blogs as soon as I am able. I hope everyone is enjoying these last days of August!
