#wlam2018 Day 25: Governors Island - Now that the island is officially open for the season, it’s only appropriate to highlight one of my favorite “must-see” destinations in NYC. The 172 acre island just south of Manhattan boasts a tremendous array of history, culture, landscape experiences, art and programming to attract locals and tourists alike. It’s a true playground for all too. Originally an egg-shaped rock covered in nut trees, in early history the island was used as a fishing and ground for the Lenape tribe. Governors Island’s long military history began when the colonial militia constructed an earthen-work fort, later to become Fort Jay, in 1775. In 1811 Castle Williams, the second of three historic forts on the Island, was built. In 1911 fill from the Lexington Ave subway construction was used to expand the island and it was used as an Army outpost and Coast Guard Base until 1996. In 2001 President Clinton designated the 22-acre Governors Island National Monument and thus managed by the National Park Service. In 2014 The Trust for Governors Island opened 30 acres of new parkland, designed by West 8, to the public, including the six-acre Liggett Terrace, ten-acre Hammock Grove, and fourteen-acre Play Lawn. “The Hills” Made of recycled construction and fill materials rising 25 to 70 feet above the Harbor features slides, art, and an amazing 360-degree view of New York Harbor, Lower Manhattan, and the Statue of Liberty - a gorgeous place to watch the sunset! #landscape #island #park #exploreyourcity #whatsnearby #landarch #governorsisland #nyc (at Governors Island)