List of islands of New York (state) facts for kids

New York State is home to many amazing islands! An island is simply a piece of land completely surrounded by water. These can be found in oceans, lakes, or rivers. New York has a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, plus many large lakes and important rivers. This means there are hundreds of islands across the state, each with its own unique story.

Islands of New York State

What is an Island?

An island is a piece of land that has water all around it. Islands can be very small, like just a few rocks sticking out of the water. They can also be very large, big enough for cities and towns. New York State has islands of all shapes and sizes.

Why So Many Islands in New York?

New York is a special place because it has so many different types of water. It touches the Atlantic Ocean, which gives us coastal islands. It also has huge lakes like Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, and many smaller ones like the Finger Lakes. Big rivers like the Hudson River and the St. Lawrence River also create islands. This mix of water bodies means New York is full of islands!

Famous Islands in New York

Many of New York's islands are famous for different reasons. Some are home to millions of people, while others are quiet nature spots.

Long Island

Long Island is the largest island in New York. It stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean. Millions of people live here. It is known for its beautiful beaches and charming towns.

Manhattan Island

Manhattan Island is the heart of New York City. It is one of the most famous islands in the world. It is packed with towering skyscrapers, famous landmarks, and busy streets. Think of places like Times Square and Central Park!

Staten Island

Staten Island is another one of New York City's five boroughs. It is connected to Manhattan by the free Staten Island Ferry. The ferry ride offers amazing views of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

Ellis Island and Liberty Island

Ellis Island and Liberty Island are small but very important islands in New York Harbor. Ellis Island was once the main entry point for immigrants coming to America. Millions of people passed through here. Liberty Island is home to the iconic Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy.

Coney Island

Coney Island is a peninsula that was once an island. It is famous for its amusement parks and boardwalk. It has been a popular spot for fun and entertainment for over a hundred years.

Governors Island

Governors Island is a historic island in New York Harbor. It used to be a military base. Today, it is a public park. You can visit it by ferry and enjoy its green spaces and views.

Grand Island

Grand Island is a large island in the Niagara River. It is located near the famous Niagara Falls. It offers parks, recreation, and a quieter pace than the big cities.

Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands is a group of more than 1,800 islands. They are located in the St. Lawrence River, right on the border between the United States and Canada. This area is famous for its beautiful scenery and historic castles.

Exploring New York's Islands

Each island in New York has its own unique character. From busy city centers to quiet natural escapes, there is so much to discover. Many islands offer parks, beaches, and historical sites. They are great places to visit and learn more about New York's geography and history.

The following is a list of islands found within New York State.

See also

• List of smaller islands in New York City