When one mentions New York City, the first images often conjured up are skyscrapers, bustling streets, and historic landmarks. While these are indeed iconic elements, there’s more to the Big Apple than Manhattan’s bustle or Brooklyn’s hipster culture. Across the harbor lies Staten Island, an oft-overlooked borough with its unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and burgeoning food scene.

Staten Island, or the “forgotten borough” as it’s sometimes affectionately referred to, is steeped in a rich history that dates back to the Lenape tribe — the first known inhabitants.

Today, this history can be explored at the Staten Island Museum, offering a treasure trove of exhibits that span art, science, and local history. The museum is part of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, a 19th-century sailor’s retirement home now transformed into a thriving cultural epicenter. With beautiful gardens, art labs, and theaters, Snug Harbor is a testament to Staten Island’s resilience and ability to reinvent itself while preserving its past.

Another must-visit historical landmark is Historic Richmond Town, where visitors can step back in time. This living history village presents a vivid tableau of 300 years of American history, offering a unique chance to explore restored homes, tradesman shops, and public buildings from different periods.

But Staten Island isn’t just about history; it’s a haven for nature lovers. The Greenbelt, a 2,800-acre network of parks, trails, and open spaces, provides a welcome respite from the city’s concrete jungle. Here, you can explore the High Rock Park filled with wetlands, ponds, and hiking trails or the scenic LaTourette Park, a favorite among bird watchers.

Staten Island’s undulating topography and proximity to the harbor also make it an excellent spot for panoramic views. None are more spectacular than those from the Staten Island Ferry.

This free ferry service — a lifeline for local commuters — offers breathtaking vistas of the iconic Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the New York skyline.

It’s a must-do for any visitor wanting to capture these landmarks from a different perspective.

Recently, Staten Island’s food scene has begun to create a buzz.

From authentic Sri Lankan cuisine reflecting the borough’s significant Sri Lankan community, to hip gastro pubs and farm-to-table restaurants, there’s something to satiate every palate.

And for craft beer enthusiasts, the Staten Island Beer Company offers an impressive array of locally brewed beers.

In essence, Staten Island offers a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, all set against the backdrop of the bustling metropolis. It may be slightly off the beaten track compared to its more famous siblings, but its charm lies in its quiet and unassuming persona — a world away from the high-energy buzz of Manhattan, yet intimately tied to the essence of what makes New York City a global icon. Come explore Staten Island — you’re sure to leave with a renewed appreciation for this unique borough of New York City.