Alice Austen House and Park

A Glimpse into History

Found in Staten Island's Rosebank neighborhood, Alice Austen House and Park is a cozy spot with a big story overlooking the New York Harbor. Named after Alice Austen, one of America's pioneering female photographers, this site was where she captured life through her lens for most of her years.

At the heart of the park stands Clear Comfort, a charming Victorian Gothic cottage that Alice called home. What started as a humble one-room Dutch farmhouse in the 1690s eventually blossomed into the expanded cottage we see today after 19th-century renovations.

A man takes in the scenic view from the lookout point

Photo: Sarah J (CC0 1.0)

Step into Alice's World

The house now is a museum where you can immerse yourself in Austen's remarkable photography and life story. For a small admission fee, you can take a tour and connect with this groundbreaking artist's work. The museum staff are genuinely friendly folks who make the experience all the more enriching with their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Beyond its artistic significance, Alice Austen House proudly represents an important chapter in LGBTQ history. Alice shared this home with her partner, Gertrude Tate, for many years, making it a meaningful landmark in the ongoing story of LGBTQ visibility and rights. It's recognized as a historic LGBTQ site on Staten Island.

A Feast for the Eyes

The grounds surrounding the house offer beautiful views of the Narrows (the entrance to New York Harbor) and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. On clear days, the panorama extends to the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn's shoreline, and sometimes even Jersey City in the distance - an excellent backdrop for contemplation or photography.

There's something wonderfully peaceful about this waterfront setting with its well-kept lawns. It's the kind of place where you can escape the city's constant hum without actually leaving it.

Peaceful walking path along the waterfront with Verrazzano Bridge in distance

Photo: Tommy Miles (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Take a Breather

You can find plenty of benches and shaded spots great for relaxing with a book or enjoying a sandwich while soaking in those harbor views. The open grassy areas provide ample space for stretching your legs or walking your four-legged friend (on a leash, of course).

While there aren't designated picnic tables, the expansive lawns make for perfect impromptu picnic grounds. Just remember to bring your own snacks and drinks, as there aren't food options available on-site.

Good to Know

The park occasionally hosts music performances and special events, so it's worth checking what's happening before you visit. A portable restroom is available, primarily during museum hours.

Whether you come during a lively event when there's a buzz in the air, or on a quiet weekday when you can have the views almost to yourself, the experience is equally rewarding. If you're into photography, you'll appreciate the incredible shots you can capture here, especially at sunset or after dark when the city lights twinkle across the water.