IF you're looking for a retreat minutes from Manhattan where fresh seafood and waterfront restaurants are plentiful, City Island is the place to be.
Similar to the Hamptons or Cape Cod, this small island in the Bronx offers a coastal town feel just minutes outside of the heart of New York City.
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Located in the Bronx as part of the Pelham Islands, City Island is nestled in the very western end of the Long Island Sound.
The island only measures 1.5 miles long and half a mile wide - and has a population of less than 5,000 - but doesn't lack activities and events.
Here, we round up everything you need to know to travel to City Island.
WHY CITY ISLAND?
Open year-round, but most popular between May and October, City Island provides a small-town getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life without having to leave the five boroughs of New York.
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In fact, City Island is located just over an hour via public transit from Midtown Manhattan and is easily accessible.
Rich in history, City Island is known for its New England-esque vibe and delicious seafood.
Johnny’s Reef Restaurant and City Island Lobster House are two popular spots to dine, offering steamed and fried local seafood.
Not to mention the fact that there are plenty of other eateries boasting delicious cuisine.
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Because the island is so tiny, visitors experience waterfront views nearly everywhere they go, creating plenty of memorable photo opportunities.
In addition to the seafood and waterfront views, City Island is home to a variety of unique antique shops.
Shoppers can peruse the storefronts along City Island Avenue in pursuit of a fun antique piece to bring home as a souvenir.
WHAT ARE THE BEST CITY ISLAND VACATION DEALS?
City Island is a prime day trip destination from New York City.
The island is so small that it doesn't offer accommodations in the form of a hotel.
There may be homes available to rent, but you're likely better off staying elsewhere in the five boroughs.
Major chain hotels can be found throughout the Bronx - and Manhattan - for under $200 per night.
As far as flights go, LaGuardia International Airport is geographically closest to the Bronx.
Most major cities fly nonstop or one-stop to the New York City area, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, and Las Vegas.
Depending on the time of year, roundtrip flights to LaGuardia can be purchased for about $200.
However, flying into John F. Kennedy International Airport or even Newark Liberty International Airport are good options depending on where in New York you plan to stay.
A rental car isn't necessary for this trip if you're planning to rely on public transit.
WHAT MAKES CITY ISLAND WORLD-CLASS?
Previously occupied by the Lenape, City Island has a rich history that dates back to the 1600s.
Many of the first English settlers were fishermen - a legacy still felt today as the island is still known for its seafood offerings.
It wasn't until 1895 that residents voted to make City Island part of New York City.
City Island has historic homes and landmarks lining its streets, many of which are included in the walking tour of the island.
The walking tour takes you past over two dozen important buildings and businesses on the island.
The William H. Schofield House is just one example of what you might find on the tour - a home that dates back to the 1860s and has been designated a New York City landmark.
The island features waterfront mansions along King Avenue, as well as bungalows and cottages which help visitors become more immersed in the small town's charm.
City Island also provides exceptional views of Manhattan and great waterfront photo opportunities.
Not to mention, it served as a filming location for a handful of films including Long Day’s Journey Into Night and A Bronx Tale.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO DO ON CITY ISLAND?
Depending on the time of year, City Island hosts a variety of festivals and fairs.
The Fall Arts & Crafts Fair is typically held in early September and features a clam chowder festival.
Local vendors and small businesses usually attend and offer jewelry, paintings, clothing, and other items for purchase.
City Island is also home to a variety of boutiques and shops where visitors can peruse antiques or paintings.
Take a stroll down City Island Avenue to experience many of the best restaurants and shops the island has to offer.
The Cinema On The Sound is the only movie theater on the island for those looking to catch a film.
Guests can also visit the City Island Nautical Museum to learn more about the area's history.
The museum features photographs and paintings, as well as a library, nautical room, community room, and school room.
Be sure to plan accordingly, as the museum is only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm - 4pm.
In addition to the delicious seafood offerings, there are plenty of other good eats and treats on City Island.
Among them is Lickity Split Ice Cream Shop, which is owned by Bronx natives and is one of the more famous spots on the island.
Plus, City Island is located next to Pelham Bay Park, which is New York City's largest public park at over 2,770 acres.
So those looking for even more adventure can venture over to the park to enjoy another day outside.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CITY ISLAND?
LaGuardia is the nearest airport, located about 30 minutes from City Island.
May and June are the best months to visit the Bronx as the weather is ideal, but the summer months in general offer prime temperatures for outdoor activities on City Island.
But be aware that May and July are among the busiest months on the island.
City Island Bridge is the only way to get on or off of the island, either via car or bus.
The New York City transit system provides a direct way to get to the island - no individual vehicle required.
Visitors can take the subway's 6 train to the end of the line and get off at the Pelham Bay Park stop.
From there, there's a city bus that travels over the bridge to drop you directly on City Island.
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For locals, another bus runs to Manhattan during rush hour.
But visitors can also walk the City Island Bridge for a fun adventure.
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