Discover Richmond
102 carefully curated photography spots with GPS coordinates, shooting tips, and local insights
Fort Wadsworth
Fort Wadsworth offers dramatic panoramas of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, New York Harbor and Manhattan skyline framed by historic stone batteries and coastal trails. Best at golden hour and blue hour for backlit bridge silhouettes and harbor reflections. Park has several lots (lower and limited upper); stick to public promenades—entering restricted fort areas is enforced. Weekday mornings and off-season are quiet; watch for changing tidal light and occasional wildlife.
Fort Wadsworth - Gateway National Recreation Area
Historic coastal fortifications with layered 19th–20th century architecture, sweeping Verrazzano-Narrows and Manhattan skyline views, sandy beaches and bike paths. Best at golden hour and blue hour for skyline silhouettes and bridge light, weekdays or early mornings for fewer people. Free park with on-site parking; ~3 miles from Staten Island Ferry. Visitor center Fri–Mon 10–4; fort open 6am–9pm. Dog- and bike-friendly; camping by reservation.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Historic Greek-revival complex set in botanical gardens: manicured beds, sculpture-lined paths, a central fountain, and the ornate Chinese Scholar’s Garden. Great for architecture details, formal garden compositions, and candid cultural moments. Grounds largely open to the public (some specialty gardens/museums charge admission). Best light: golden hours for warm facades and long shadows; overcast for saturated greens. Weekday mornings are quiet. On-site parking and Staten Island Ferry + local M
Alice Austen Park
Small waterfront park with historic Alice Austen house, sweeping views of Staten Island Sound, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and Manhattan skyline. Excellent for sunrise/sunset colors, long exposures of passing ships, and intimate heritage portraits. Easy street parking nearby; park is free and mostly flat with paths and picnic spots. Weekday mornings are quiet; portable restrooms on site.
Alice Austen House
White Dutch Colonial house on a lawn that slopes to the bay with Manhattan views — ideal for architectural portraits, waterfront panoramas, and intimate detail shots of Victorian textures and gardens. Grounds are best for exterior shooting; interior access often requires advance booking. Arrive at golden hour or sunrise for warm light and calm water; weekdays are quieter. Limited on-site parking; reachable via Staten Island Ferry + local bus. Respect museum signage and private areas.
Historic Richmond Town
A 100-acre living-history village of restored colonial and 19th‑century houses, costumed guides and working trades. Shoot authentic streetscapes, architectural details, interiors, blacksmith/carpenter demonstrations and seasonal foliage. Best light: golden hour and soft overcast for even detail; weekday mornings for fewer visitors. $10 admission; free on-site parking; some houses open seasonally—check hours and request permission for closeups or portraits of staff.
Freshkills Park
Freshkills Park transforms former landfill mounds into wide rolling hills, grasslands, wetlands and shoreline with unique vantage points of the Manhattan skyline, migratory birds and industrial waterfront textures. Best at golden hour for warm light on grasses and skyline silhouettes; spring and fall for migrating birds and wildflowers. Park is publicly accessible with free parking at main entrances; check NYC Parks site for seasonal closures and guided-access areas. Expect trails, boardwalks, &
Great Kills Park
Coastal park with beaches, salt marsh, trails and harbor views — ideal for shorelines, marsh reflections, migrating birds and occasional deer. Best at golden hour or low tide for exposed sandbars and textures. Free entry, limited parking near Hylan Blvd; accessible trails but bring bug spray in summer. Weekday mornings are quieter.
Staten Island Boat Graveyard
Maritime decay: rows of rusting tugboats and barges stranded on a sandbar in the Arthur Kill. Photographers find dramatic textures, silhouettes against sky and shipping-channel backdrops. Access is muddy and partly on private land — walk in via Blazing Star cemetery or paddle from Carteret. Best at sunrise/sunset for backlit silhouettes and golden hues; spring/fall offer tame vegetation and fewer bugs. Wear boots, respect private property, and watch boat traffic if approaching by water.
Freshkills Park Birdwatching Tower
A reclaimed-land park with an elevated birdwatching tower overlooking tidal wetlands, grassy berms and distant NYC skyline — ideal for migratory birds, marsh textures and expansive landscape frames. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm side light and reflections; spring and fall migrations offer peak bird activity. Accessible via park trails; limited parking near entrances (check Freshkills Park maps). No entry fee; tower involves stairs and can be windy. Expect insects in summer and muddy/ve
Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center and Museum
Fort Wadsworth offers dramatic coastal fortifications, masonry bunkers and sweeping lookout platforms with direct views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Manhattan/Brooklyn skyline. Best at golden hour and blue hour for layered light on water and bridge silhouettes. Visitor Center open seasonally; free guided fort tours in summer/weekday mornings. On-site parking is limited; arrive early or use local bus/short taxi from St. George. Expect uneven stone paths and stairs—some areas not fully
Blue Heron Park
Small, quiet woodland and marsh park with ponds, boardwalks and open wet meadows—excellent for intimate wildlife and nature shots (herons, ducks, turtles, deer) and moody reflections. Best early morning or late afternoon for golden hour and bird activity; weekdays are very quiet. Trails can be muddy and tick-heavy; wear waterproof boots and insect repellent. Limited signage; small parking area near Poillon Ave. No entry fee.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach
Long, wooden boardwalk along Staten Island's south shore offers wide views of New York Harbor, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, passing ships and sandy beach scenes. Best at sunrise and sunset for warm light and reflections; spring–fall yields mild weather and migratory birds. Easy access by car (parking near entrances) and local buses; no entry fee. Weekday mornings cut crowds; winter storms add moody skies.
National Lighthouse Museum
Small museum and waterfront promenade celebrating US lighthouse history with restored lens displays, historic structures and sweeping views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. Best light at sunrise and golden hour for warm side-light on museum facades and harbor reflections; blue hour/night captures lit skyline and shipping lights. Site is walkable from St. George station and ferry; limited on-site parking and museum hours may restrict interior access—check before visiting. Weekdays/AM
Saw Mill Creek Marsh
Tidal salt marsh with reeds, mudflats and winding channels—great for birdlife, reflections and intimate landscape textures. Best at golden hour and low tide when channels and mud patterns are exposed. Accessible from South Ave; parking is limited on-street and paths can be muddy—bring waterproof shoes. No entry fees; respect wildlife and stay on trails. Quiet, natural pocket within Staten Island offering close-up wildlife opportunities and painterly compositions.
The Conference House
18th‑century Conference House perched on the Staten Island shore offers strong colonial architecture, period interiors, and wide Raritan Bay vistas — ideal for combining historic detail shots with coastal landscapes and dramatic sunsets. Best light is golden hour and blue hour looking west over the water; low tide exposes rocks and foreground interest. Site is in Conference House Park (seasonal public hours and guided tours), limited on‑site parking and short walk from Tottenville SIR. Check NYP
Wu-Tang Clan Mural
Large, colorful Wu‑Tang Clan mural on a Staten Island street wall — iconic hip‑hop subject and bold graphic shapes ideal for portraiture and wide compositions. Public, ground‑level location with no entry fee; reachable by car or local buses, limited street parking. Best light is golden hour or overcast for even tones; weekdays and early mornings reduce passersby. Respect local residents and private property when shooting close.
Allison Pond Park
Small, quiet urban woodland and pond offering marsh edges, turtles, ducks, occasional egrets, a babbling brook, stone ruins and an overgrown tree-stump amphitheater. Best at golden hour or early morning for soft light and wildlife; trails are unmanicured and can be muddy—wear good shoes. Street parking on Prospect/Brentwood; no facilities. Easy walk-in access from surrounding residential streets; great for intimate nature, macro and serene landscape shots.
Wu-Tang-Clan District Graffiti
Large, colorful Wu-Tang Clan murals and street art at Sobel Ct celebrate Staten Island hip‑hop heritage. Photograph bold portraits, typography and wall textures; the site is public street art—no entry fee. Best at golden hour for warm tones, or overcast to saturate colors. Weekday mornings have fewer pedestrians; limited street parking—use nearby residential lots and respect neighborhoods.
William T Davis Wildlife Refuge
Tidal marshes, winding creeks, mudflats and wooded edges offer intimate wildlife and landscape shots — especially migratory shorebirds, herons and reflective waters at golden hour. Best at sunrise/sunset and during spring/fall migration; low tide exposes feeding birds. Small parking lot near 82 Mulberry Ave; boardwalks and trails give close access but can be narrow and muddy. No entry fee; bring bug spray and waterproof footwear. Quiet, under-visited urban refuge with rich birdlife and changing季
Ocean Breeze Park
110-acre coastal park with sand dunes, wetlands, grasslands and shrub forest offering layered landscapes and wildlife near South Beach and the boardwalk. Best at golden hour for warm dune textures and long shadows; morning for bird activity. Public access is free; ample parking in the covered lot or across at South Beach. Trails are minimally signed and can be sandy/muddy—wear tick prevention. Athletic complex on-site may require membership for indoor facilities.
South Beach Boardwalk
South Beach Boardwalk is a wide 2.6‑mile oceanfront boardwalk on Staten Island with long vistas, a fishing pier, sandy beach stretches and picnic/play areas. Easy free parking and public restrooms make shoots practical. Best at sunrise for calm water and golden light, or at sunset for warm skies and silhouettes; weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Note some pier/railings show wear — use for grittier, documentary frames. No entry fee; accessible on foot or bike.
Brookfield Park
Small reclaimed-land park on the Arthur Kill with broad Hudson-side views, marshy edges and frequent birdlife (notably bald eagles). Smooth paved loops, dirt trails and lots of parking make it accessible; trails can be overgrown in summer. Best at sunrise/sunset for warm side-light on water and migrating birds; weekday mornings are quieter. No entry fee; access from Arthur Kill Rd.
Gateway Park, Great Kills Harbor
Small waterfront park on Great Kills Harbor offering marina scenes, sandy beach, sailboats, piers and open water sunsets. Best at golden hour and blue hour for reflections and warm light; mornings and weekdays are quieter. Easy roadside parking (check trailer permit rules); paths and floating docks offer low-angle access. Expect wind off the water and occasional debris on the shore; respectful behavior around boaters and wildlife (deer sightings) appreciated.
Todt Hill Woodlands
Todt Hill Woodlands is Staten Island’s wooded ridge and the highest natural point in NYC — a mix of mature oak and beech stands, winding trails, fern-carpeted floors and occasional skyline or estuary glimpses. Photographers will find intimate forest details, seasonal color in fall, soft diffuse light in spring/fog, and dramatic low-angle light at sunrise/sunset. Trails are unpaved and can be steep; access is free from Morse Ave with informal street parking. Weekday mornings have fewer people; be
The Noble Maritime Collection
Compact, free museum at Snug Harbor showcasing John A. Noble’s maritime paintings, his restored houseboat studio and ship-cabin recreations. Interiors offer textured wood, models and artifacts; exterior Snug Harbor grounds provide contextual shots. Best on weekday mornings for low crowds; lighting inside is dim and mixed—ask staff about tripod use. Accessible entrance and on-site parking at Snug Harbor. Plan 30–60 minutes.
Silver Lake Park
Small urban oasis centered on a calm lake, pedestrian bridge and tree-lined trails — great for reflections, seasonal color (spring blooms, fall foliage), candid park life and serene landscape shots. Best light at sunrise and golden hour; weekdays and early mornings are quiet. Park is free and dog-friendly; limited parking along Victory Blvd and lot access near the park road. No special entry permits for casual photography; permits may be required for commercial shoots or wedding setups.
Clay Pit Ponds State Park
265-acre Staten Island preserve of ponds, wetlands, pine woods and trails with abundant birds, peacocks, deer, foxes and dragonflies. The Interpretive Center is the main entrance with parking, restrooms and rangers. Best for early-morning wildlife and golden-hour waterscape reflections; winter/early spring reduces mosquitoes and offers clearer lines. Some trails are swampy after rain—wear boots. No fee; follow park rules and stay on marked trails.
Mount Loretto Unique Area
Patchwork of coastal grassland, salt marsh, trails and a historic lighthouse view — ideal for wide landscape, waterscape and wildlife shots. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and reflections; late afternoon brings seabird activity. Accessible paved paths, parking at 20 Kenny Rd; no fee. Expect light breezes, variable tides, and quiet weekdays; lighthouse is private so shoot from shore.
Billiou-Stillwell-Perine House
17th‑century Dutch Colonial Billiou‑Stillwell‑Perine House in Historic Richmond Town — a compact wooden farmhouse with steep rooflines, exposed beams and period details. Shoot architectural details (clapboard, chimneys, casement windows), contextual shots including surrounding lawns, garden beds and nearby colonial buildings. Best light is golden hour or soft overcast for texture. Site is inside Historic Richmond Town; check museum hours and admission, parking available on site; weekdays and off
Latourette Park
Clifftop park with wooded trails, rocky shoreline and salt-marsh views over the Arthur Kill — good for coastal landscapes, skyline silhouettes and tidal foregrounds. Best at sunrise or golden-hour sunset for warm side light and long shadows; low tide reveals rocks and pools. Free entry with a small parking lot off Rockland Ave; trails are mostly easy but uneven in places. Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded; winter offers stark compositions, spring brings blooming undergrowth.
Olmsted-Beil House Park
Small historic park featuring the Olmsted-Beil House (17th–19th-century fabric) framed by mature trees and restored grounds. Ideal for architectural details, period textures, and intimate landscape shots. Visit weekdays or early morning for fewer visitors; golden hour and overcast days give dramatic light. Limited on-site parking — street parking on Orchard Ln; check Friends of Olmsted-Beil House for tours and access during restoration.
Wolfe's Pond Park
Small seaside city park with a rocky beach, freshwater pond, wooded trails and open lawns — great for shorelines, birdlife (swans), and intimate nature scenes. Visit at golden hour for warm light on the pond and pastel skies over the bay; weekdays or early mornings give quiet trails. Parking is plentiful and free, restrooms and picnic/BBQ areas on site. No lifeguards; some trails are natural and may be muddy after rain.
Conference House Park
Small historic park at Staten Island’s southern tip featuring the 17th‑century Conference House, bluff views over Raritan Bay and a rocky shoreline. Photograph colonial architecture, bay panoramas and dramatic sunsets; good golden‑hour light from late afternoon. Park is open to the public; limited on‑site parking and reachable by Staten Island buses — arrive early on weekends. No entry fee; interior access may be seasonal. Mild coastal winds and tidal reflections add mood to long exposures.
South Beach Wetlands
South Beach Wetlands preserves sand flats, marsh channels and old trails on Staten Island — strong for birdlife, deer sightings, reflective waters and textured tidal flats. Best at golden hours and low tide for exposed patterns; weekdays and sunrise bring fewer people. Access from Pearsall St with informal parking; trails are unpaved and can be muddy—waterproof boots recommended. Bring a map/app (local maps noted as outdated) and check tide charts. No formal entry fee; respect protected habitat.
Bunker Ponds Park
Small urban wetlands with ponds, marsh edges and wooded trails offering close wildlife encounters — great for birding (herons, mallards, wood ducks), turtles, salamanders and seasonal frogs. Best at dawn or dusk for activity and soft light; spring and fall bring migrants. Access from Hylan Blvd with informal street parking; no fee. Trails are uneven—wear boots. Shore Avenue shows eroded shoreline textures worth photographing.
Clove Lakes Park
Small urban oasis featuring wooded trails, ponds and Clove Lake with reed-lined shores and waterfowl—great for reflections, fall color and intimate nature scenes. Best at golden hour or early morning for mist and bird activity; autumn offers peak color. Park is free, has on-site parking and paved paths suitable for most gear; weekdays are quieter. Accessible from Staten Island roads and public transit; bring insect repellent in summer.
North Shore Waterfront Esplanade Park
Compact waterfront promenade on Staten Island's North Shore offering open views across New York Harbor, the Verrazzano-Narrows and Manhattan skyline. Ideal for skyline, harbor activity and sunset/sunrise compositions. Easy public access from St. George (short walk from Staten Island Ferry and train), free entry, limited street parking and nearby pay lots. Best light: golden hour and blue hour for skyline and long exposures; weekday mornings are quieter. Weather can be windy—dress accordingly.
New York Chinese Scholars Garden
Compact, serene Suzhou-style garden with koi ponds, moon gates, pavilions, rockeries and winding paths—great for intimate landscape and detail shots. Small admission (about $5; Staten Island residents may get Free Fridays). Visit weekdays or early morning to avoid crowds; golden hour and overcast skies both work well (soft light and strong reflections). On-site parking is often free; plan 15–90 minutes. The site’s traditional Chinese architectural details and mirrored water surfaces make it a lo
Prince's Bay Lighthouse
Perched on an 85-ft bluff in Mount Loretto, Prince's Bay Lighthouse is a decommissioned 1864 tower and keeper’s cottage overlooking Raritan Bay. Trails in Mount Loretto Unique Area give sweeping coastal vistas, dramatic bluff foregrounds and sunset/sunrise light; the tower itself is closed and often fenced. Parking is available; expect limited facilities, possible litter/graffiti, and seasonal crowds. Visit at golden hour for warm side-light and long shadows; weekdays and early mornings have the
Tottenville Shore Park
Small waterfront park on Staten Island's southern tip with wide views across the Kill Van Kull and distant New Jersey shore — great for shoreline compositions, tidal flats, boats and dramatic skies. Best at sunrise or golden-hour sunset for warm light and reflections. Accessible by car (limited parking) or a 10–15 min walk from Tottenville station; flat paved paths suitable for tripods. Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Windy weather creates dynamic water and cloud movement; low-tid
Fort Hill Park
Small elevated park on Staten Island offering wooded trails, exposed bedrock and panoramic views toward the Verrazzano Narrows and distant Manhattan skyline. Ideal for intimate landscape frames, seasonal foliage and low-sun vistas. Easy street access; limited parking. Best at golden hour or clear winter afternoons; weekdays are quieter.
Paulo's Peak
Small wooded high point on Staten Island with sweeping views of New York Harbor, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and Manhattan skyline at distance. Best at golden hour and blue hour for dramatic skies and city lights. Easy walk from roadside parking; trail can be uneven so wear shoes. No entry fee; weekdays are quieter. Weather-dependent visibility across the water makes clear days ideal.
Fountain of the Dolphins
Small waterfront plaza and boardwalk at South Beach offering wide views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, shoreline, and the Fountain of the Dolphins sculpture. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm side-light on the bridge and reflective water; evenings give dramatic silhouettes. Public, no entry fee; parking and bike rentals nearby off Sand Ln/Hylan Blvd; reachable by local buses from Staten Island Ferry. Beach cleanliness varies—plan shots from the boardwalk and piers rather than on the tid
Museum of Maritime Navigation and Communication
Small maritime museum near Staten Island's north shore showcasing ship models, vintage navigation instruments, radio/telegraph gear and coastal history. Photographers can capture intimate detail shots of brass instruments and large-format compositions of exhibits and bay views through windows. Best visited weekday mornings for low crowds and soft sidelighting; late afternoon golden hour works for waterfront exterior shots. Small entry fee and occasional guided tours (check hours); limited on‑sit
Graniteville Swamp Park
Small urban wetland with boardwalks, cattails, mirrored water and migratory birds — ideal for intimate nature and waterscape shots close to NYC. Visit at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and glassy reflections; spring and fall bring songbirds and raptors. Boardwalks make low-angle compositions easy; park on nearby streets (limited parking) — no fee. Weekday mornings and foggy days add mood; winter exposes branch patterns. Accessible but bring bug spray in summer.
Long Pond Park
Long Pond Park is a quiet, largely unmaintained Staten Island reserve centered on a reflective pond ringed by woodlands — excellent for fall colors, misty mornings and wildlife (deer, songbirds). Trails are mostly unmarked; expect uneven terrain. No fee; parking available on Clarendon Ave and nearby roads. Best at sunrise or golden hour for soft light and reflections; weekdays bring fewer people. Bring boots, bug spray and a map/GPS as paths can be confusing.
Carousel For All Children
A colorful, inclusive carousel offering close-up details, dynamic motion shots, and candid portraits of riders. Best photographed at golden hour or after dusk when painted horses glow and lights create bokeh. Accessible location with ramps and nearby street parking; check hours before visiting and expect families on weekends. Its human-scale charm and ornate carvings make it ideal for storytelling and detail work.
Willowbrook Park
Willowbrook Park offers varied scenes — open meadows, tree-lined paths, ponds and rustic park structures — good for nature and landscape shots close to NYC. Best light is golden hour at sunrise or late afternoon; weekdays and mornings mean fewer visitors. Easily reached by car (limited parking) or Staten Island buses; paths are accessible but bring insect repellent in summer. No entry fee; paired visits with Staten Island Zoo make for diverse subjects.
Faber Park
Small waterfront park with clear views of the Bayonne Bridge, a tree-shaded skatepark, colourful red basketball courts, playground and a public pool. Good for bridge panoramas, action skate and playground shots. Free entry, street parking and on-site lots; visit weekdays or golden hour for soft light and fewer crowds.
Matthew J. Buono War Memorial
Small waterfront memorial on Buono Beach offering open views across New York Harbor, calm foreground water and skyline/bridge silhouettes. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and reflections; evenings yield dramatic colors and long exposures. Easy street access on Edgewater St with limited parking; no entry fee or facilities. Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Weather and tide affect composition; respectful behavior around memorial required.
Eibs Pond Park
Small, protected wetland with two ponds, an observation dock and dense vegetation—excellent for intimate nature, bird and waterscape shots. Best at golden hour or early morning for active birds, calm water reflections and soft light. Access via Hanover Ave entrance (GPS recommended); trails can be muddy, overgrown and sometimes littered. No fees; street parking nearby. Weekday mornings offer quietest conditions. Bring mosquito repellent and waterproof shoes.
The Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art
Small museum recreating Himalayan monastery spaces — ornate altars, thangka paintings, prayer wheels, a meditation garden and pagoda-like exterior with views toward the Verrazzano Narrows. Best visited weekday morning or golden hour for warm exterior light and quieter interiors. Interiors are dim; flash is usually prohibited and spaces are tight. Street parking and a small lot nearby; check hours and admission. Be respectful of ritual objects and visitors.
Von Briesen Park
Small 12-acre hilltop park on Staten Island overlooking New York Harbor and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. Rolling lawns, a 9/11 memorial, and open viewpoints make it ideal for harbor vistas, bridge shots at golden hour, and seasonal scenes (spring blooms, winter sledding). Limited amenities and parking; access from Bay St & North Rd near Fort Wadsworth. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for warm light and evening bridge illumination; weekdays are quieter.
Graniteville Quarry Park
A small former quarry with steep rock walls, clear blue-green water and rugged textures — ideal for reflective waterscape shots, rock detail and dramatic vertical compositions. Visit golden hour for warm side-lighting and sunsets; calm days enhance mirror reflections. Park is public, street parking nearby; paths are short but uneven—bring sturdy shoes. Weekdays are quieter. No special permits for handheld photography; check local rules before using a drone.
Last Chance Pond Park
Small coastal salt-marsh and pond offering intimate nature scenes: boardwalk views, reed textures, tidal reflections and migratory/wintering birds against an urban backdrop. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm side-light and reflections; early mornings and migration seasons (spring/fall, winter waterfowl) for bird activity. Site is free with neighborhood street parking and a short accessible boardwalk/trail—expect mosquitoes in summer. A protected remnant of Staten Island’s marshland, great.
Heritage Park
Small waterfront park with unobstructed views of the shipping channel, Bayonne Bridge and occasional retired Staten Island ferry. Open layout, benches and rock piles create foreground interest. Easy parking at the lot; no entry fees. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and reflections; avoid after-dark (no lighting). Weekday mornings are quiet for long exposures and ship portraits.
Father Macris Park
Small waterfront park on Staten Island's Kill Van Kull offering open views of shipping lanes, industrial skyline and wide water horizons. Best at sunrise or sunset for warm light and reflections; weekdays and early mornings are quieter. Easy street parking on Fahy Ave, no entry fee. Flat, accessible paths and exposed shoreline make it good for long exposures, telephoto shots of passing vessels, and minimalist compositions featuring sky and water.
Gaeta Park
Gaeta Park is a small Staten Island waterfront park with direct views across the Kill Van Kull toward New York Harbor and bridge/skyline elements. Photographers can capture wide harbor vistas, dramatic skies at golden/blue hour, and intimate foregrounds along the promenade. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for warm light and reflections; weekdays are quieter. Easy on-site street parking and walking access from local neighborhoods; flat, accessible paths. No entry fee.
Staten Island Zoo
Compact, community zoo with intimate animal enclosures, reptile house and gardened paths—great for close-up wildlife portraits and environmental shots. Best on weekday mornings or late afternoons for softer light and fewer crowds; outdoor exhibits benefit from golden-hour side light. Indoor houses are dim—bring fast glass and expect reflections; zoo is wheelchair-accessible with on-site parking and modest admission. Check feeding/show times for active behavior shots and respect animal rules (no‑
Huguenot Ponds Park
Small wetlands park with ponds, boardwalks and marsh vegetation—ideal for intimate nature and waterscape shots, reflections and migratory birds. Visit at dawn or golden hour for soft light and calm water; weekdays and early mornings reduce family-activity crowds. Easily accessible from Huguenot Ave with street parking; no entry fee. Expect muddy trails in wet weather and seasonal bird activity—bring waterproof shoes. A quiet Staten Island green space with good close-focus nature opportunities.
Jones Woods Park
Small, wooded urban preserve with winding trails, native wildflowers and frequent deer — a quiet slice of nature ideal for intimate woodland scenes, wildlife portraits and seasonal color (spring blooms, autumn leaves). No entry fee; trails start from the sidewalk and parking is generally easy. Best light: golden hour and overcast afternoons for even forest light. Weekday mornings are least crowded; some sections are shaded and low-light.
Brady's Pond Park
Small urban freshwater pond set in wooded parkland — good for reflective waterscapes, intimate forest scenes, and regular deer and fishing activity. Best at golden hour for mirror-like reflections and soft side light; fall offers rich color, winter brings stark compositions. Access from Hylan Blvd; parking is limited and trails can be steep/uneven — expect mosquitoes in warm months and avoid after dark. Weekday mornings are quiet for wildlife and long exposures.
Stump Pond
Stump Pond is a small, tranquil wetland with exposed tree stumps, reflective water and seasonal birdlife — ideal for intimate nature and waterscape shots. Accessible via the Yellow Trail; expect uneven dirt paths and a nearby parking/park entrance. Best at sunrise or late golden hour for warm sidelighting and mirror-like reflections; spring and fall bring migratory birds. No fee; bring waterproof footwear for shoreline access.
Lemon Creek Park
Small tidal saltmarsh and beach with a pier and marina overlooking New Jersey — great for marsh textures, shorebird/terrapin wildlife, pier silhouettes and golden-hour sunsets. Easy street parking on Seguine Ave; no formal entry fee or facilities (limited restrooms). Best at low tide and during sunrise/sunset for reflections and dramatic light; weekdays are quieter. Short trails connect to Wolfe’s Pond for extended shoots.
Old Place Creek Park
Tidal creek and salt-marsh shoreline offering intimate wetland scenes, migratory birds, and water reflections against Staten Island’s industrial skyline. Best at golden hour or high-tide reflections; low tide reveals sinuous mud channels and textures. Accessible from Western/Gulf Ave with limited street parking and short walks on informal paths—bring waterproof shoes. Quiet, local spot good for nature-focused shoots and intimate landscape compositions.
Forest Grove
A small wooded pocket along Forest Ave offering dense trees, trails, seasonal foliage and intimate nature scenes—good for close-up forest details, long tree-lined leading lines, and golden-hour shafts of light. Easily reached by car or bus; street parking and brief walks from Forest Ave. No entry fee; accessible year-round (peak color in fall). Weekday mornings are quiet; overcast days reveal even forest tones.
Clove's Tail
Clove's Tail is a small waterfront bluff near Victory Blvd offering sweeping views over the Arthur Kill and Staten Island's industrial skyline. Photographers can capture sunset colors reflected on the water, layered shorelines, and cargo ship traffic. Accessible from street parking; no fee. Best at golden hour or blue hour for dramatic skies and long reflections. Weekdays or early mornings reduce local traffic; light can be harsh midday.
Staten Island Museum
Small, well-curated museum in the Snug Harbor area blending local history, art and natural science. Interiors offer intimate displays (mastodon, natural history, community exhibits) with controlled gallery lighting — no flash or video allowed. Best visited weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid school groups. On-site pay-what-you-wish admission, street and Snug Harbor campus parking; accessible entrance and compact galleries ideal for deliberate composition work.
Hero Park
Small, peaceful neighborhood park with mature trees, benches and a clear sightline to the Manhattan skyline a few yards away—ideal for intimate landscape/urban mixes and quiet portrait sessions. Best at sunrise or sunset for dramatic sky and skyline backlight. No entry fee; park is small with no dedicated lot—street parking on Victory Blvd. Weekday mornings and late afternoons are least crowded. Good in all seasons: winter can yield clean skyline shots, spring offers foliage contrast.
Hybrid Oak Woods Park
Small coastal oak woods with a tidal beach — offers shoreline compositions, tide-exposed textures, driftwood, and informal kayak activity on weekends. Best at sunrise/sunset for warm side-light and reflections; low tide reveals geological textures and found-object still lifes. Access from Joline Ave with informal parking; free entry, flat trails, and occasional weekend crowds. Bring waterproof shoes and check tide times; the site is valued for quiet nature escapes and gritty seaside character.
Siedenburg Park
Small suburban wetland and pocket forest with glacial boulders, marsh pools and abundant songbirds — good for intimate nature, wildlife and moody waterscape shots. No entry fee; parking along Timber Ridge Dr. Best at dawn/dusk for golden hour and bird activity; avoid Fri–Sat nights when area can be less safe. Trails are informal and can be muddy after rain.
Seaside Wildlife Nature Park
Small coastal park with a marsh boardwalk, wooden bridge, shoreline views of Great Kills Harbor and visiting swans, ducks and occasional salamanders. Quiet, family-friendly spot with street parking; no permanent facilities until bathrooms finish. Best light at sunrise/sunset; weekdays are least crowded.
Staats Circle
Small circular memorial and park at the Hylan Blvd/Fingerboard Rd roundabout honoring 9/11. Photograph the circular layout, monuments, walkways and seasonal trees; mood shots work well at golden hour or on overcast days. Easy street-level access with nearby curb parking; no entry fee but treat site respectfully. Weekday mornings and early evenings have fewer passersby.
Pondside Green Park
Small neighborhood park around a reflective pond offering calm waters, shoreline plantings and tree-lined paths — good for intimate landscape, waterscape and casual wildlife shots. Visit at golden hour or overcast days for moody reflections; autumn and spring offer best color. Easily accessible by car or local bus, free entry, street parking nearby; expect light local foot traffic on weekends.
King Fisher Park
A compact, largely undeveloped woodland with a small pond and winding trails — ideal for intimate nature, water reflections and wildlife (birds, turtles, deer). Visit at golden hour or overcast days for soft light and saturated greens. Weekday mornings offer solitude; parking is street-side on Miles Ave/Fairfield St. Trails can be muddy and uneven; no facilities. Its value is the feeling of escaping urban Staten Island into a quiet, photogenic remnant forest.
Saint Francis Woodlands
Small, tranquil woodland cemetery with mature trees, winding paths and historic headstones — great for intimate nature and memorial portraiture, textured tree-canopy shots and seasonal color. Visit golden hour or overcast days for soft light; autumn brings best foliage. Modest walking on uneven ground; respect memorials and stay on paths. Street parking on Cliffwood Ave; no formal entry fee. Weekday mornings are quiet.
Blood Root Valley
Small wooded valley on Staten Island known for spring bloodroot blooms, mossy stream beds and layered deciduous trees. Photograph close-ups of early wildflowers, intimate stream compositions, and light through the canopy. Best in spring mornings and golden hour; weekday visits avoid crowds. Trail access is informal—wear waterproof shoes; parking limited on Rockland Ave. Respect sensitive plants and nearby residences.
High Rock Park
Small coastal park on a rocky bluff with views over the Kill Van Kull/Arthur Kill, marshy shoreline, stone outcrops and walking paths. Offers intimate coastal landscapes, tidal reflections and migratory birds. No entry fee; street parking near 200 Nevada Ave. Best at golden hour for warm light and long shadows, sunrise or sunset for reflections; weekdays are quieter. Easy short walks but bring layers—wind can be strong.
Reed's Basket Willow Swamp Park
A tidal freshwater marsh and willow-dominated wetland on Staten Island's southern shore offering intimate nature scenes: winding boardwalks, cattails, wading birds, reflections and seasonal color. Best at golden hour or overcast soft light; dawn for bird activity. Small parking nearby on Ocean Terrace; wheelchair-accessible boardwalk segments. No entry fee. Expect mosquitos in summer and limited facilities.
Deere Park
Small hilltop park on Todt Hill offering wooded trails, open lawns and elevated vantage points over Staten Island with glimpses toward New York Harbor. Best at golden hour and autumn for warm light and foliage; sunrise and sunset can yield layered skies and distant skyline silhouettes. Easy walk-in access from Ocean Terrace; limited street parking—no entry fee. Weekday mornings are quiet. Modest elevation makes it a good local vantage without long drives.
Staten Island Children's Museum
Indoor hands-on exhibits, colorful play structures, sensory soft-play rooms and a large outdoor play area offer rich candid and detail photography of children’s interactions, textures and motion. Best visited weekday mornings for softer light through skylights and low crowds. Museum is stroller/wheelchair accessible with elevators; small parking lot and street parking nearby; check event schedule and consent rules for photographing children.
Ingram Woods
Small urban woodland offering mature trees, shaded trails, leaf litter, and neighborhood views — good for intimate nature and seasonal color studies. No entry fee; street parking on Purdy/Ingram Ave (limited). Best at golden hour and early morning for soft side light and few people; autumn and spring show best color and textures. Trails are short and mostly flat; bring macro or tele for details and a tripod for low-light understory shots.
New Dorp Park
Small Staten Island park with grassy paths, beach access and scattered trees—good for intimate landscape and waterscape shots. Mixed reports about fenced/overgrown sections: scout entry points before shooting. Best at sunrise or late afternoon for warm light; weekdays are quieter. Free parking nearby; respect closed areas and local users.
Independence Park
Small Staten Island green space with tree-lined paths, lawns and neighborhood views — good for intimate landscape, seasonal foliage and candid park lifestyle shots. Best light is early morning or late afternoon; weekdays are quieter. Easy street parking and no entry fee; wheelchair paths in parts. Expect local dog walkers and community events on weekends.
Staten Island Industrial Park
A gritty waterfront-industrial zone offering warehouses, shipping yards, rail lines and expanse of concrete and steel — great for gritty urban textures, industrial abstract details and distant skyline/water vistas. Best at golden hour or blue hour for contrast and warm rim light; overcast days make great moody monochrome images. Public roadside access and informal parking along South Ave; expect occasional truck traffic and some private property — stay on public sidewalks and docks. Weekdays are
Meredith Woods
Meredith Woods is a pocket woodland on Staten Island offering winding trails, mature trees, seasonal foliage and quiet understory — great for intimate nature and close-up landscape shots. Best at golden hour or overcast days for even light; spring wildflowers and fall color are highlights. Small parking on Meredith Ave or street parking; no entry fee. Trails are informal — wear boots. Weekday mornings are least crowded.
Fun Station USA
Fun Station USA is a compact family amusement center with colorful signage, arcade interiors and small rides — great for neon-lit night scenes, candid family action and detailed game-machine close-ups. Visit evenings for glowing lights and blue-hour exteriors; weekdays and early evenings are less crowded. Site is roadside with on-site parking; pay-per-ride/entry typical. Accessible public spot — respect families and children when shooting.
Tappen Park
Small historic greenspace in St. George with a Victorian-era bandstand, war memorials, mature trees and tree-lined walks — great for intimate architectural and documentary shots. Best light at golden hour and blue hour for silhouettes and warm textures. Easy street parking nearby, fully public and wheelchair-accessible paths; weekdays are quieter. Good for environmental portraits and details of plaques and ironwork.
Biddle House
Biddle House is a small 19th‑century historic house on Staten Island with classic wooden architecture, period interiors, small gardens and a shoreline view. Photograph exterior details, porch composition and framed water vistas; interiors require permission. Visit weekday mornings or golden hour for soft light; summers and fall offer foliage. Limited on‑site parking; check park hours and staff for interior access. Close to Conference House Park and historic context of Revolutionary‑era families.
The Big Park
Small neighborhood green space on Staten Island offering tree-lined paths, open lawns, playgrounds and seasonal color—good for intimate landscapes, park scenes, portraits and lifestyle shots. Best at golden hour and during fall leaves; weekday mornings are quiet. Easy street parking on Grandview Ave, no entry fee. Accessible paths but limited parking; expect local families and dog-walkers—blend candid shooting with composed wide-angle scenes.
Joseph Manna Park
Small neighborhood park with open lawns, mature trees, walking paths and neighborhood views — good for intimate landscape and urban-park scenes, seasonal foliage and golden-hour light. No entry fee; roadside parking and small lot on Forest Ave. Accessible paths for most gear; weekday mornings and golden hour offer soft light and fewer people. Local community events occasionally add candid-street opportunities.
Richmond Parkway
Richmond Parkway runs through Staten Island marshes and suburban edges offering wide skies, roadside wetlands, tidal channels and graphic roadway lines. Photograph leading lines from overpasses, reflections in narrow estuaries, migrating shorebirds and dramatic sunrises/sunsets. Accessible by car with roadside pullouts and nearby street parking; no entry fee. Best at dawn or dusk for low light, long shadows and fewer cars; weekdays are quieter. Watch for wet ground and traffic when composing.
Staten Island Oktoberfest
Seasonal Oktoberfest in St. George turns Richmond Terrace into a lively festival of beer tents, Bavarian costumes, live music and food stalls—great for candid portraits, action shots of bands/dancers, colorful details (pretzels, steins, bunting) and night scenes. Best photographed late afternoon into blue hour when warm light and festival lights mix. Arrive via Staten Island Ferry to avoid limited parking; event is typically ticketed/cashless, crowded on weekends. Respect performers and local NY
Stars, Stripes, and Staten Sights
A small patriotic installation and waterfront vantage in St. George offering close-up shots of flags, plaques and broad views across Upper New York Bay toward Manhattan and the Verrazzano. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm side-light on flags and long shadows; evenings give colorful skies and skyline silhouettes. Easy curb access, short walks from Staten Island Ferry and limited street parking; wheelchair accessible paths. No entry fee; respect memorial signage and quiet atmosphere.
Staten Island Inclusive Safety Mural
A large, colorful community mural promoting inclusivity and safety — ideal for bold wide-frame shots, environmental portraits, and close-up detail studies of paint texture. Best visited early morning or late afternoon for warm side lighting and fewer passing cars; midday can produce harsh reflections. Located on a public street with curbside parking on Hill St; no entry fee but be respectful of neighborhood residents and foot traffic. Easy access by car or local transit; wheelchair-accessible at
Westwood Park
Small neighborhood park on Staten Island offering tree-lined paths, open lawns and seasonal color — good for intimate landscape, environmental portraits and detail shots of foliage. Visit at golden hour or in fall for rich colors; weekday mornings are quiet. Easy street parking, flat accessible paths, no entry fee. Modest size but useful for practicing composition and local community scenes.
Forest Mall
Small indoor/outdoor strip mall on Richmond Ave with varied storefront facades, pedestrian paths and mature street trees — good for everyday urban and lifestyle shots. Easily accessible by car with on-site parking; ~20–25 min drive from Staten Island Ferry. Best on weekday mornings or late afternoons for soft light and fewer shoppers; overcast days help render colors. No entry fees; be mindful of private businesses and respectful when shooting people.
Gen. Douglas MacArthur Park
Small community park with memorial features, open lawns, mature trees and neighborhood street scenes — good for intimate landscapes, seasonal foliage, candid urban-life shots. No entry fee; accessible paths and street parking nearby. Best at golden hour for warm light, early weekday mornings for fewer people, and autumn for color. Expect local families and weekend activity; respectful distance around memorials.
Old Town Playground
Small neighborhood playground set in Old Town, Staten Island — capture colorful play structures, candid street-life scenes, and seasonal trees against low-rise residential backdrops. Best light at golden hour or overcast for even color; weekday mornings are quieter. Street parking and sidewalks nearby; no entry fee. Respect privacy — avoid photographing children without permission.
John E. White Park
Small neighborhood playground with a hill viewpoint, sprinklers and kid-focused equipment — good for intimate family and documentary shots. Best visited early morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer families; summer afternoons show active sprinkler play. Easy street parking; no restrooms. Accessible paths and a quiet, safe community vibe make candid portraits and detail shots appealing.
14 Macfarland Avenue
A quiet Staten Island residential block with mix of mid-century houses and tree-lined streets—useful for neighborhood/urban documentary shots, architectural details, and lifestyle images. Easy street-level access with free curb parking in many spots; no entry fees. Best light is early morning or late afternoon for warm side-lighting and long shadows; weekdays are calmer for unobstructed streets. Weather in spring–autumn offers the most pleasant shooting conditions. Respect private property and居民