Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier

Though most day-trippers are drawn to this Red Hook park by its panoramic vistas—including views of the Statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, New York Harbor, Staten Island and the Manhattan skyline—there’s New York City history to be beheld here as well. Valentino Piers stretches into Buttermilk Channel, a major route for New York’s shipping industry from the 1800s through the 1950s. In the summer months, take advantage of kayaking tours courtesy of Red Hook Boaters and movie screenings presented by Red Hook Flicks—both free.