Staten Island: Saint George Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a way to explore Staten Island beyond the typical ferry ride, this Saint George Walking Tour offers a quick, engaging glimpse into the borough’s lesser-known treasures. It’s a short, affordable experience that aims to show visitors a side of New York City often overlooked—small-town charm within the big city.

What we love about this tour is the chance to enjoy local storytelling from native guides who truly know Staten Island’s ins and outs. Plus, the inclusion of a slice of authentic New York pizza at the end makes for a fun, satisfying finish. That said, the tour is only about an hour long, so if you’re craving a deep dive into Staten Island, this might feel a bit surface-level. However, for a quick, well-curated glimpse, it hits the spot.

This experience is perfect if you’re short on time but want to get a sense of Staten Island’s vibe, landmarks, and history. It’s also great for first-timers who want a guided introduction before exploring more on their own. Just keep in mind, it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must—and if you’re after extensive touring, you might want to supplement it with additional activities.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: At just $17 per person for a one-hour guided walk, it’s a budget-friendly way to see Staten Island’s highlights.
• Expert guides: Local, licensed guides share stories and insider tips that make the experience more engaging.
• Iconic views: Starting just outside the Staten Island Ferry terminal, you get great views of the harbor and passing by the Statue of Liberty.
• Hidden gems: From the Lighthouse Museum to the Postcards Memorial, the tour highlights lesser-known spots that add depth to your visit.
• Food included: Ending with a slice of local pizza gives a true taste of New York’s pizza culture.
• Accessible and flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

When we think about what makes a good city tour, a few things come to mind: knowledgeable guides, interesting stops, and a good vibe. Based on what’s shared about this Staten Island tour, it seems to deliver on all three. For just $17, you’re getting a 60-minute stroll through a neighborhood packed with history and personality, plus a slice of pizza to cap things off.

The tour kicks off just outside the Staten Island Ferry terminal, which makes it super convenient if you’re arriving by ferry. You’ll start by passing the ferry terminal itself, a building that’s not just functional but a symbol of Staten Island’s connection to Manhattan. Guides will tell you about the ferry’s role in everyday life here and its historical significance—this is a great way to contextualize your visit.

Next, you’ll visit the National Lighthouse Museum, housed in a beautifully restored building with views across the harbor. It’s a unique spot that highlights Staten Island’s maritime background—something many visitors might not stumble upon on their own. The St. George Theatre, built in 1929, offers a glimpse into Staten Island’s cultural scene, and it’s easy to imagine how lively performances here must have been over the decades.

As you walk, you’ll pass Borough Hall and take in the civic pride of Staten Island’s government buildings, and then head over to Empire Outlets—a waterfront shopping hub that combines designer brands with scenic views of Manhattan. For sports fans, the Richmond County Bank Ballpark is a fun sight, home to Staten Island’s minor league baseball team.

One of the most touching stops is the Postcards 9/11 Memorial, a waterfront tribute to Staten Island residents lost during September 11. This memorial adds a poignant note to the tour, reminding visitors of the borough’s resilience and community spirit.

The tour’s pace is relaxed, with stops for photos and stories from guides that genuinely convey Staten Island’s character. Many reviews highlight how guides are passionate and knowledgeable, which makes a real difference. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was so enthusiastic and shared stories I’d never find in a guidebook.” That personal touch makes the experience memorable.

The Pizza Finish

After strolling through these spots, the tour wraps up with a slice of authentic New York pizza. It’s a simple but perfect way to experience local flavor, and many agree that Staten Island’s pizza is a hidden gem loved by locals. The pizza stop also offers a chance to chat with your guide or fellow travelers before heading back to the ferry or onward adventures.

What to Expect: Practical Details

The tour’s duration is just 1 hour, making it easy to slot into a busy day. Starting point is at the Waterfront Box Office at 75 Richmond Terrace, right outside the ferry terminal. This spot is easy to find, and the meeting is straightforward. Guides are licensed professionals and proud Staten Islanders, eager to share their hometown stories.

This experience is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for travelers with mobility needs. However, it’s worth noting that the tour might not be suitable for those with significant mobility impairments or young children under 1 year, as it involves walking around the neighborhood.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, and there’s the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Tours are typically available in the morning and afternoon, giving you some flexibility depending on your schedule.

The Downsides

While the tour covers a nice range of sights, it’s pretty brief—about an hour. If you’re after detailed history or want to explore Staten Island in depth, this might feel a little too quick. Also, since it’s a walking tour, those with mobility issues might find it challenging, despite the accessibility note. Plus, the focus is on highlights rather than hidden corners, so if you’re craving off-the-beaten-path experiences, you might want to look elsewhere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors looking for a quick, guided introduction to Staten Island. It’s also perfect for those interested in maritime history, local landmarks, and the borough’s connection to the wider NYC story. If you’re a fan of storytelling and local insights, you’ll probably enjoy the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge.

It’s less suitable for travelers wanting a deep historical dive or those with limited mobility. Since food is included and the pace is relaxed, families with kids who enjoy walking and a bit of sightseeing should feel comfortable, but it’s not specifically tailored for children.

Final Thoughts

This Saint George Walking Tour offers a well-chosen, manageable snapshot of Staten Island’s unique character. For just $17, you get a friendly guide, engaging stories, scenic views, and a slice of city-loved pizza—what’s not to like? It’s a smart choice if you’re in need of a brief but meaningful introduction to Staten Island’s landmarks and local flavor.

While it’s not a deep exploration, it’s a practical way to connect with Staten Island’s community and history without a huge time commitment. Perfect for curious travelers who want a taste of the borough’s charm and community spirit, or for those who simply want a fun, guided walk in a city full of surprises.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for young children?
While the tour is generally relaxed and includes a stop for pizza, it’s a walking experience designed for adults and older kids. Young children under 1 year might not find it engaging, and those with mobility issues should check accessibility beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is about 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a busy day of exploring NYC. It’s a quick way to see some key landmarks without committing to a full day.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Waterfront Box Office located at 75 Richmond Terrace, just outside the Staten Island Ferry terminal, so it’s really convenient if you’re arriving by ferry.

What’s included in the price?
For $17, you get the guided walking tour, insight from a native guide, and a slice of pizza at the end. Tips are not included, so you might want to bring some cash if you wish to tip your guide.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, although it involves walking around the neighborhood, so some navigation might be necessary.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, which offers extra flexibility.

If you’re curious about Staten Island and want a friendly, straightforward introduction with local guides and a tasty finish, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s a glimpse of Staten Island’s charm and history that’s simple, affordable, and packed with interesting stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: