The 83-acre Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden (1000 Richmond Terr., 718/273 2060, www.snug-harbor.org [1], noon–5 p.m. Tues.–Sun., admission $6, children under one free) is set in a restored home for retired seamen. The 19th century Greek Revival buildings now house all of the major Staten Island Cultural Institutions (varying fees for different museums), including The Nobel Maritime Collection, focusing on the art of John A. Nobel and featuring his houseboat studio; the Art Lab, a school of fine and applied art; the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art; performing arts at the Veterans Memorial Hall Playhouse and the Music Hall; and the Staten Island Children’s Museum.
The extensive grounds open to the public include the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, the Tuscan Garden, and the Connie Gretz Secret Garden (grounds only admission $5).
Take the S40 bus at the St. George Ferry Terminal to the Snug Harbor Road stop.
Links:
[1] http://www.snug-harbor.org