Snug Harbor: Stunning gardens, 2 museums, waterfront, wetlands, and more!

We'll take the free Staten Island ferry, then walk to the sprawling grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museum. The Center includes:

• Spectacular, authentic Chinese scholar’s garden
• Staten island nature and history museum
• Sailor's museum
• Several other lovely gardens and greenhouses plus an outdoor labyrinth
• Wetlands nature path plus an ornamental pond
• Many beautiful old buildings
• We’ll walk along the waterfront, featuring spectacular views of Manhattan, then probably take a short bus ride to Snug Harbor. At the end of the day you’ll have the option to walk or take the bus back to the ferry.
• Don't be late: The ferry leaves at 12 pm!

DISTANCE: About 3.5 to 5 miles, depending on whether you walk or take the bus back to the ferry.

FINISH AT: About 5:30 PM at the ferry terminal in Manhattan, but you can leave earlier, of course, by walking or taking the bus back to the ferry.

SNACK BREAK: Bring your own or buy something at the ferry terminal or Snug Harbor.

COST: Pay what you wish for the museums, though the Staten Island one has suggested (optional) fees; $5 ($4seniors) for the Chinese Scholar's Garden; and bus fare (same as subway).

TRANSPORTATION: R or 1 train to Whitehall/South Ferry is closest. Or 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green (then walk south). Google MTA planned service changes for weekend subway changes.