A Day of Volunteering & Learning on Governor’s Island
Things to know
- Tour Type: Social Impact Experience
- Location: Governor's Island
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours including ferry time
- Tour Includes: Experienced tour guide who will travel with you to and from Governor’s Island and provide a guided walk between all tour stops. Tour can include a volunteer experience at Earth Matter and lunch with drinks on the island!
- Tour Capacity: 10 people min / 60 people max
- Click here to contact us to book.
Featured Stops
What Is Governor's Island?
Governor’s Island is a 172-acre island located in New York Harbor, just south of Manhattan. The island has undergone extensive redevelopment since 2011.
The Governor’s Island Social Impact Tour is an opportunity for groups of 10 or more people to explore Governor’s Island and go behind the scenes with three impactful organizations that are helping to transform the island into a vibrant community.
Learn about the issues of food waste, organic farming and regenerative farming. This includes an urban farm, oyster farm, composting complete with goats and chickens, and even a lavender field! Experience the beauty of Governor’s Island and learn about the important role it’s now playing in the NYC community.
What does Social Impact mean to us?
On our tours, “social impact” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a commitment. We believe exploring like a local means connecting with the people and causes shaping our communities. That’s why we partner with inspiring, grassroots organizations and highlight their work along the way. Just as we carefully choose the food and spots you’ll experience, we also choose partners who are making a real difference. By joining our tours, you’re not just seeing the city—you’re helping it thrive.
Additional Tour Highlights
Lunch Options
🌮 Taco Vista: A favorite for groups, Taco Vista serves tacos, burritos, and bowls with unbeatable waterfront views.
🥘 Makina Cafe: An Ethiopian cafe full of bold, authentic flavors and vegetarian-friendly options.
🦪 Island Oyster (Premium Upgrade): Looking to upgrade? Island Oyster offers fresh seafood and cocktails with a luxurious waterfront vibe.
🍻 Little Eva’s Beer Garden & Grill: Enjoy craft beer, grilled eats, and a laid-back setting—perfect for winding down after a morning of volunteering.
We’ll help coordinate orders and ensure dietary needs are met. All options include plenty of seating and outdoor ambiance.
Art, Nature & Inspiration
After volunteering and lunch, your team can opt for added time to explore Governors Island’s seasonal art exhibits and installations. From interactive sculptures to creative pop-ups, there’s always something new to discover.
Stroll tree-lined paths, visit historic forts, or simply relax in a hammock with a view of the Statue of Liberty. It’s a refreshing change of pace—and a great way to wrap up a day of purpose-driven work.
Let’s Plan Your Team’s Day on Governors Island
The Governors Island Social Impact Day is more than just a volunteer event—it’s a powerful way to build team morale, connect with NYC’s sustainability community, and enjoy one of the city’s most inspiring outdoor spaces.
Whether your group is big or small, hands-on or more laid-back, we’ll work with you to create a custom experience that leaves a lasting impression.
FAQ
How much walking is involved and what is the pace?
Our tours vary from 1-2 ½ miles over a 3 hour period. We walk at a leisurely pace and stop frequently to discuss interesting points along the way.
We do recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Keep in mind that you are on your feet for most of the tour. All tours include at least 1 stop where you can sit for your tasting.
The least walking would be attending our Chelsea Market + High Line Tour and opting to skip the High Line walk portion that culminates the tour.
Our Flatiron Food Tour is the least walking (1 mile) followed by Chelsea Market & High Line Food Tour (1.5 miles) Lower East Side (2 miles), and Williamsburg Food Tour (2 miles).
Are your tours in English only?
Our public tours are conducted in English with the exception of tours in Spanish offered on Saturdays at 4:30 PM. Outside of this, we can accommodate foreign language private tour bookings. Our guides speak Spanish, Italian and French. If you need a tour in another language, please contact us and let us know.
Will locals enjoy the tours as well or is it mostly for tourists?
Absolutely! While you may be familiar with our route and some of the stops, you will also have the opportunity to discover new things about the wonderful neighborhood you live in! Additionally, this tour is an excellent way to entertain out-of-town guests, celebrate a special occasion or encourage professional team building.
We regularly hear from local customers that they found a new favorite spot while on tour with us!
How do I book a private tour for more than 16 people?
Please fill out our contact form, or email us with details about your group at reservations@likealocaltours.com.
Do I have to purchase tour tickets in advance?
Yes! Booking in advance is required. Our tour guides do not accept cash on site for tickets.
Ready to book a public tour? Click here.
Looking for something more intimate? Book a private tour here.
What are your cancellation policies?
Public Tours
Plans sometimes change. We get it; it happens to us too. So we’re happy to provide a hassle-free, 100% refund if you give us 48 hours’ notice.
Inside of 48 hours, we’ve already started preparing for your visit, and can’t easily fill your slot, so we sadly can’t provide you a refund in that case.
Private & Corporate Tours
Do you cancel for inclement weather?
Tours will run rain, snow or shine. We ask that you check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if inclement weather is predicted.
In the case of extreme weather, we will reach out to you if we need to cancel your tour and reschedule you to a time when it is safe!
How can I amend my booking number of guests?/How can I remove or add guests?
If you booked directly with us, you should’ve received a confirmation email. Please click ‘change booking’ located directly below the photo/event details. You should be able to modify there.
If you booked through a third party or reseller, please contact them directly to make the change. This includes booking made through Viator, TripAdvisor, GetYourGuide, Fever, Cozymeal.
What do I do if I am late to a tour?
Don’t panic! You can join the tour up to 30 minutes after it has started. Please call us at +1(347)542-7998 and follow the menu options to contact your tour guide.
They will let you know exactly where you can find the group and join the tour!
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