Hotel Snapshot
Just eight minutes by ferry from Lower Manhattan, Collective Retreats Governors Island manages to do what very few New York hotels can — quiet the city that never sleeps. Right on Governors Island, a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of green space in the middle of New York Harbor, this glamping retreat is the first of its kind in the city. Spread across six acres, it’s a mix of canvas tents and sleek cabins dotted around open lawns, fire pits, and some of the best skyline views of the city.
Once a Revolutionary War fort, later a U.S. Army post and Coast Guard base, and now an easy escape from Manhattan, Governors Island has lived more lives than most New York neighborhoods. These days, it’s defined by walking paths, public art, and a handful of seasonal events. But the island’s biggest draw is undoubtedly Collective Retreats. It’s half boutique hotel, half adult overnight camp, and entirely its own experience.
Design & Character
The design here balances between rustic and refined. Everything looks simple but thoughtful, complete with chic canvas tents, neutral furnishings, and natural tones that don’t overpower the scenery. There’s no formal lobby on the grounds, but rather a big lawn with hammocks, Adirondack chairs, and fire pits that face the skyline.
The Rooms
The 29 suites and tents look like a design experiment in how far you can stretch the idea of “camping.” The accommodations range from glass-wrapped suites to luxe canvas tents, all with private decks and incredible views.
The Journey Tents are the most classic take on camping — beds tucked inside roomy canvas structures with curated furnishings and cute coffee and tea stations. For a step up, the Voyager and Expedition Tents have a more elevated setup, complete with king beds and walk-in rain showers. The Voyager Waterfront King Tent is the one to book for the view alone. Its private deck faces the harbor, with the kind of harbor views most New York penthouses would envy.
The Basecamp Cabins are essentially tiny homes built for comfort, each with a king bed, soaking tub, air conditioning, and private terraces. They’re perfect for those who want the idea of camping without giving up amenities. The most impressive stays, however, are the Summit, Outlook, and Observatory Suites, all of which take things even further. With floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors, spacious bathrooms, and cozy furnishings, they’re just like private residences.
The Food & Drink
Dining at Collective Retreats is casual but well-executed. The on-site Three Peaks Lodge serves breakfast for guests and dinner for guests and island visitors. Breakfast is simple with pastries, fruit, yogurt, and strong coffee, while dinner leans more creative with a rotating menu of vegetables, fresh fish, meats, and seasonal sides. A short but well-curated list of cocktails and local wines rounds it out, making it one of the best spots to eat on the island. After dinner, guests usually end the evening by the fire pits, toasting s’mores and watching the city lights twinkle.
The Amenities
The amenities are pared down but polished. There’s complimentary breakfast every morning, daily housekeeping, and a staff that handles everything from ferry timing and golf cart pickups to dinner reservations and bike rentals. Around the property, hammocks and fire pits are open to guests, and there are also bikes, yoga classes, and lawn games if you feel like doing something. Even with its off-the-grid feel, the retreat has all the essentials covered. There’s Wi-F, filtered water, extra blankets, and lanterns lighting the paths after dark.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
The location is more than half the experience. The property is on the island’s western edge, which has truly unbeatable city views. And, while Governors Island might only be two miles around, there’s plenty to explore. Rent a bike and cruise the loop, stop by Outlook Hill for great harbor views, or check out Colonels Row, where old military homes now house art installations and pop-ups. If you’re into history, Fort Jay and Castle Williams are both worth a stop. On most weekends, the island is filled with food trucks, live music, and family-friendly events.
By the time the last ferry leaves heads back to the city, it feels like you’ve got the whole island to yourself – and you essentially do. No matter what you’re visiting for, Collective Retreats is proof that the best kind of island hopping doesn’t always require a passport.
Fast Facts
Address: Governors Island, New York, NY
Vibe: A quick city escape meets elevated glamping.
Rating: 4-star
Starting Rate: Around $379 per night
Room Count: 29 tents and suites
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: This property has all the best parts of camping, minus the actual camping.
Dining: Three Peaks Lodge; open-air bar
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, WiFi, hammocks, yoga, bikes, fire pits, daily housekeeping, bike rentals
Nearby Attractions: Outlook Hill and Fort Jay on the island; Battery Park, One World Observatory, and Seaport District in Manhattan
Airport: LaGuardia, JFK, or Newark
