When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Collective Retreats Governors Island
Why Collective Retreats Governors Island is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Collective Retreats Governors Island offers a one-of-a-kind luxury camping experience just eight minutes by ferry from New York City, making it an ideal spot to reconnect with friends in a serene, car-free environment. Set on a six-acre retreat within the 172-acre Governors Island parkland, it features 29 upscale tents and private suites that provide stunning skyline views and harbor breezes. Guests can explore the island’s peaceful trails, enjoy biking, or participate in wellness activities like sunrise yoga. The retreat’s seasonal dining at Three Peaks Lodge and the Sunset Terrace brings fresh, farm-to-island cuisine alongside craft cocktails and live music, perfect for socializing or unwinding by the fireside. Open from May to October, this hidden gem balances nature and luxury, offering a unique escape from the city bustle while remaining conveniently close. Its atmosphere encourages guests to unplug, reset, and make lasting memories in a relaxed, beautiful setting that blends outdoor adventure with comfort and style.
Here's what people think of Collective Retreats Governors Island
As of recent, Collective Retreats Governors Island holds a 4.1-star rating based on 177 reviews.
Reviews of Collective Retreats Governors Island showcase a generally positive reception with an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars based on 177 reviews. Many guests appreciate the unique location just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, describing the experience as a peaceful escape and a rare chance to enjoy nature without losing sight of the city skyline. Positive reviews often highlight the quality of the upscale tents and private suites, emphasizing their comfort, cleanliness, and modern furnishings. Visitors also praise the dining experience at Three Peaks Lodge and the social atmosphere created by seasonal events like sunset cocktails and fireside nights, which foster a communal and relaxing environment. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention concerns about service inconsistencies and the high price point relative to some expectations, along with occasional issues with cleanliness reported by a few guests. However, these critiques are less frequent and often contrasted by others who find the experience worthwhile and unique. Overall, the reviews suggest that Collective Retreats Governors Island is a great choice for those seeking a luxury glamping experience near NYC, blending natural beauty with upscale amenities and memorable social experiences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tom Johnson
Spacious tents with daily service. High quality breakfasts and attentive staff to cater to your transportation needs at any time. Comfortable beds with picturesque views of the Statue of Liberty. Slept well. Friendly, helpful staff. Downsides are that some showers don't have hot water (even waiting 5+ for it to warm), also the ferry schedule constrains dinner timing in the city. Not many places to eat on the island. Some hammocks need tightening. Website photos give impressions of nicer tents and such than match reality.
Alvina Ling
My husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary here, thanks in part to a generous gift certificate we had received last year. Because of the gift certificate, we decided to splurge and pay extra for a waterfront view, and I’m so glad we did. We saw a glorious sunset and loved just relaxing on the front deck, and also people watching from bed. The staff was all wonderful and friendly and helpful. The food at the restaurant was great—the chocolate lava cake was delicious. We skipped the s’mores but had fun chilling in a hammock on the lawn. Our only critique/warning is the noise from the planes, helicopters, passing cars and carts and bicycles and pedestrians in front of the tent. The provided earplugs were life savers and necessary for sleep—and a warning about the loud party boats that pass after midnight on Saturday nights. I somehow slept through it but they woke my husband up and kept him up for an hour! (Definitely not the fault of Collective Retreats, but be aware!)
Fatima Giron
The place was nice and the tents are comfortable. I was only let down by the food. Too expensive, no much variety and unflavored. Even the alcoholic beverages felt like they have more water than anything else. The best place to eat at governor Island was Taco Vista and the alcohol beverage were very good. It was nice staying during 4th of July since you get a very good view of the 🎆 but you don't have food options since the island is close early.
Nancy Cammy
Collective retreat at governors island is truly a great experience. One that everyone should try at least once or like myself, a yearly tradition. Think my partner and I have done this for three years in a row. The island is truly an elevated experience in the evening with the view of the New York City Skyline and Statue of Liberty National Monument. You can wine and dine by the fire place while making s'mores or have dinner under the stars. I do recommend early spring or Fall season since the summer is quite hot. Their hospitality is 24.7 via text should need any assistance.
Aly Carlotti
My friends and I had a really special time here. We stayed at the base camp so two of us slept in the basecamp and one slept in the tent next to it. It was nice having a bathroom in the basecamp. Everyone that worked there was very friendly - Kelly was very helpful in picking us up from and dropping us off at the ferry. We liked that you could eat dinner there and absolutely loved the smores. Views are amazing - to see the boats pass by was so much fun to watch. I would add some sun umbrellas for the hammocks and better signage for the public bathrooms (if they are zipped shut it means someone is in there!) Will definitely be back soon!
How to reach Collective Retreats Governors Island
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Why Collective Retreats Governors Island may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why Rally at Collective Retreats Governors Island with Your Friends?
Gathering your friends at Collective Retreats Governors Island offers an extraordinary blend of urban proximity and natural escape that few places can match. Just a short eight-minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, this luxury camping resort sits on a peaceful, car-free 172-acre island that feels like a secluded retreat from the city’s relentless pace. It provides a refreshing, tranquil setting where friends can reconnect, unwind, and enjoy immersive experiences away from everyday distractions. The combination of stunning skyline views, harbor breezes, and the rustic charm of upscale tent accommodations makes it an ideal spot for creating memorable moments with your group. Whether your goal is adventure, relaxation, or celebration, Collective Retreats offers a unique environment where you and your friends can enjoy shared activities, fireside conversations, and breathtaking sunsets, all within easy reach of New York City. This location perfectly balances exclusivity and accessibility, promising a delightful and rejuvenating experience that fosters deeper connections among friends in a beautiful, natural setting.
What Activities Can You Enjoy at Collective Retreats Governors Island?
Collective Retreats Governors Island offers a diverse range of activities specially designed to appeal to groups and make every moment rich with fun and discovery. One of the standout experiences is island exploration by bike — a perfect activity for friends who want to sightsee together while enjoying fresh air and exercise. Bikes are available to rent conveniently, allowing guests to traverse Governors Island’s leafy paths and encounter art exhibits, historic forts, and picturesque landscapes at their own pace. For those seeking wellness and mindfulness, daily sunrise yoga sessions provide a serene way to start the day, surrounded by nature’s tranquility. Wellness activities extend into the day with options like lawn games, happy hours with cocktails, and live music in the evenings, which create a vibrant social atmosphere ideal for groups to bond. S’mores by the fire pit offer a cozy, nostalgic night-time ritual that rounds out the day perfectly.
Why Is Collective Retreats Governors Island Perfect for a Group Meetup?
The design and amenities of Collective Retreats Governors Island make it exceptionally well-suited for group meetups. The retreat features 29 upscale tents and private suites that accommodate a range of group sizes comfortably while providing ample privacy. Its location on a 6-acre retreat zone within Governors Island ensures a private and inviting space far removed from city noise. The presence of an onsite restaurant, Three Peaks Lodge, serves farm-to-island seasonal menus, allowing groups to enjoy gourmet meals together in a relaxed setting without needing to leave the retreat. Moreover, there are flexible event spaces—both indoor and outdoor—that can host up to 250 guests, making it perfect for celebrations, reunions, or large friend gatherings. The site is wheelchair accessible and safe, with onsite security and concierge services prioritizing guest comfort. Additional conveniences like high-speed internet, AV equipment for group presentations or entertainment, and available outdoor heating add layers of comfort and practicality to any meetup. In essence, Collective Retreats merges nature, luxury, and thoughtful group-friendly infrastructure to offer an unmatched venue for reconnecting with friends.
What Makes the Accommodations Stand Out for Your Stay?
The accommodations at Collective Retreats Governors Island distinguish themselves through their blend of luxury and rustic charm. Each tent or suite offers upscale amenities such as air conditioning, heated mattress pads (seasonal), plush linens, in-room safes, Byredo toiletries, robes, coffee and tea-making facilities, and even refrigerators and desks—making the experience both comfortable and stylish. These tents open up to sweeping urban and harbor views, creating a striking juxtaposition of wilderness and cityscape. The accommodations are designed to be both immersive and convenient, with flashlight provisions for night-time navigation and luggage storage services to ease your arrival and departure. Sharing these comfortable, well-appointed tents enhances the sense of community and shared adventure among friends, while each guest still enjoys personal comfort and privacy when needed.
How Does the Location Enhance Your Group Experience?
Situated just minutes by ferry from the Financial District of Manhattan, Collective Retreats Governors Island is the epitome of accessibility combined with escapism. This proximity allows groups to easily gather straight from the city or combine the retreat with urban activities before or after their visit. Once on the island, the absence of cars and the abundance of open green space create a safe environment, ideal for groups to explore freely. The surroundings include iconic views such as the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, adding spectacular backdrops to photos and memories. The island itself is steeped in culture and history, featuring forts, art installations, and seasonal events that can enrich your visit with unique local flavor. Additionally, guests can indulge in nearby amenities like the QC NY Spa with exclusive discounts, perfect for relaxation after a day of activities. The natural beauty and cultural richness of Governors Island, combined with the modern comfort of Collective Retreats, make the location an unbeatable choice for group stays.
What Dining Options and Social Experiences Are Available?
Dining at Collective Retreats Governors Island is a culinary highlight designed to complement your group’s retreat experience. The onsite restaurant, Three Peaks Lodge, serves a thoughtfully curated farm-to-island menu emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savor a continental breakfast included with their stay and enjoy à la carte dinner service that invites lingering conversations and shared plates. The dining experience is enhanced by the gorgeous setting and excellent service, encouraging groups to bond over food in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Beyond meals, the retreat hosts evening social rituals such as sunset cocktails on The Sunset Terrace and live music performances on select nights, which foster a lively, convivial environment perfect for toasting with friends. Gathering around the fire for s’mores on the lawn provides a cozy, interactive way to end the evening, making everyone feel connected to the natural surroundings and each other. These shared dining and social opportunities create lasting memories that are central to the retreat’s appeal.
How Does Collective Retreats Cater to Special Events and Celebrations?
Collective Retreats Governors Island is specially equipped to handle private events and celebrations, making it a prime location for group meetups that mark special occasions. The venue offers versatile event spaces, both indoor and outdoor, that can be tailored to groups from small parties up to 250 guests. These adaptable spaces include options for seated dinners, cocktail receptions, or mixed formats that allow guests to mingle comfortably. The retreat’s staff provides onsite catering and concierge services to customize events according to your group’s preferences, ensuring seamless execution. Rain plans are in place, including access to a pavilion and tent rentals, so weather will not disrupt your event. With advanced audiovisual equipment and high-speed internet available, the venue supports modern event needs like presentations, music, or live streaming, giving you full flexibility. This blend of practical services, beautiful surroundings, and professional support makes Collective Retreats a standout choice for meaningful group celebrations.
What Makes the Wellness and Recreational Offerings Ideal for Groups?
Collective Retreats Governors Island prioritizes wellness and active recreation as essential parts of its guest experience, with offerings that cater perfectly to groups seeking balance between activity and relaxation. Wellness options include daily yoga classes that greet the morning with calm and energy, often held outdoors amid fresh air and scenic views. For those wanting to maintain an active vacation, there are opportunities such as hiking the island’s meandering paths, biking scenic routes, fly fishing, and even horseback riding nearby—many accessible via short arrangements through the retreat or local partners. These activities encourage interaction, teamwork, and fun among friends, strengthening bonds in a natural, stress-free environment. The nearby QC NY Spa offers spa treatments with a discount for guests, perfect for post-activity pampering or group relaxation sessions. These well-rounded wellness and recreational programs contribute to a fulfilling, health-conscious group experience that rejuvenates both body and mind.
How Accessible and Convenient Is Collective Retreats Governors Island for Guests?
Accessibility and convenience greatly enhance any group meetup, and Collective Retreats Governors Island excels in both areas. The retreat is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring guests with varying mobility needs can comfortably navigate both accommodations and shared spaces. Its location is extremely convenient for New Yorkers and visitors alike, with ferry connections running frequently from multiple points in Manhattan, easily reached by subway, taxi, or bus. Onsite, guests benefit from concierge services ready to assist with everything from dining reservations to equipment rentals. The resort also provides luggage storage, on-site security, and internet access, catering to modern expectations of comfort and safety. Furthermore, guests can rent bikes to explore the island for 24 hours at a reasonable rate, allowing flexibility and freedom during their stay. Collectively, these amenities and transport options remove common travel hassles, allowing groups to focus on enjoying their time together in a spectacular setting.
This comprehensive overview reveals that Collective Retreats Governors Island offers an exceptional blend of nature, luxury, activities, and accessibility that makes it an outstanding venue for your next group getaway. From acclaimed glamping accommodations and curated culinary experiences to wellness programming and stunning island explorations, it is designed to foster connection, celebration, and relaxation among friends and family.