Staten Island might be the city’s quietest borough, but it’s full of character and history. The free Staten Island Ferry runs all day and night, offering great views of the Statue of Liberty and lower Manhattan before docking in St. George, where 19th-century architecture meets local culture. Stop by the restored St. George Theatre, the National Lighthouse Museum, or the Staten Island Museum, which mixes natural history, art, and local exhibits. Green space is everywhere here. The Staten Island Greenbelt offers miles of trails and woodlands, and in summer, the island’s beaches are popular for kayaking and relaxing by the water. For a closer look at local history, visit the Alice Austen House, once home to one of America’s first female photographers, or explore Historic Richmond Town, a preserved village with buildings and artifacts that trace island life back to the 1600s. Staten Island also has a growing food scene, especially around St. George and Stapleton, where you’ll find local breweries and waterfront restaurants worth discovering.

This 14th-century church, known as Santuario della Madonna della Misericordia in Italian, is renowned for the portrait of Madonna della Misericordia, painted by the artist Giuseppe Soleri in the 18th–19th century. Located near the Augustus Arch, this sanctuary was originally constructed by Clarisse nuns. Throughout its history, this church has been a site of continuous pilgrimages and a place of profound prayer. It is said that the miraculous image of Madonna della Misericordia moved its eyes in 1850, adding to its mystique. As a result, the 12th of every month holds special significance as a day to commemorate this miraculous event.

Bröderna Nilssons Livs in central Kungsbacka is a genuine country grocery store where you can buy delicacies, cheese, tea and local produce over the counter, have your bill totted up by hand and enjoy a pleasant chat with the shopkeeper. The Nilsson family started the shop in 1940.

Experience the beauty of the Bass River with a guided kayak tour or a self-guided rental adventure. During the spring and summer months, explore the tranquil waters and diverse ecosystem of this scenic waterway.