Where to stay
Aloft Harlem
Distance to Governor's Ball: Hotels near Gov Ball don’t get much closer than this: It’s only 20 minutes by bus to the festival’s island home.
What’s cool about this hotel: Even though Aloft is located near Harlem’s best restaurants, you’ll find you never have to leave the hotel. Cozy up to the hotel’s W XYZ bar for an afternoon cocktail or grab a bite at the café. Combine those amenities with a low-fee breakfast buffet, and you’re getting a lot of value for your dollar at Aloft.
Transport tips: From here, public transportation is your best option (note: there is no parking allowed on the island, so don’t drive yourself). Take the Bx15 bus 1 mile to E 125 St and Lexington Ave, then hop on the M35 bus, which will take you straight to Randalls Island. Learn more about bus and subway fares via MTA.
The Westin New York Grand Central
Distance to Governor's Ball: You’re about 30 minutes from Randalls Island. The ferry will be your best shot at getting to the Ball.
What’s cool about this hotel: There’s an award-winning, on-site restaurant, THE LCL: Bar & Kitchen, which is open until 1 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Room service makes breakfast even easier. Book a room with a view to look out over the skyline each night as you share tales of the festival.
Transport tips: The Westin is a 15-minute walk to the East 35th Street Ferry Landing, where the festival’s ferry departs from. You’ll need to buy a ferry ticket separately from your Gov Ball ticket.
Gramercy Park Hotel
Distance to Governor's Ball: You’re a 40-minute subway ride from Randalls Island Park. Please beware — don’t take your own car! There’s no parking on the island.
What’s cool about this hotel: This luxe 5-star hotel is a NYC landmark. And don’t miss the amazing views from the rooftop terrace or the carbonara at on-site restaurant Maialino, where you can grab an early breakfast before heading to the festival.
Transport tips: The 6 subway line is the easiest way to reach the Gov Ball from Gramercy. Get on at 23rd Street, a 2-minute walk away, and get off at 125th Street. From there you can walk or take the bus the 1 mile to the festival gates. Check out the MTA website to find out where you can buy subway tickets.
Pod 39
Distance to Governor's Ball: It’ll take you about 30 minutes by public transit to get to Randalls Island.
What’s cool about this hotel: Pod 39 has 3 bars, a rooftop terrace, free Wi-Fi and a café. Did we mention the incredible location in Midtown, blocks from Grand Central Station and the Chrysler Building? All that for a price that won’t break your budget.
Transport tips: Buy your ferry ticket ahead of time, then make the 13-minute walk to the East 35th Street Ferry Landing for a memorable ride across the East River.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Fifth Avenue
Distance to Governor's Ball: You’ll get to the festival on Randalls Island in about 30 minutes via public transit.
What’s cool about this hotel: You can’t beat the location near Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood — and the free breakfast. After you fuel up, relax with a view on the rooftop terrace or grab a complimentary hot cup of joe from the hotel lobby before making your way to the festival. If you want to work up a sweat before the festival, check out the on-site fitness center.
Transport tips: Get on the M34 bus at W 34 St/Broadway, a 6-minute walk away, and get dropped at FDR Drive & East 34 Street. From here you’ll ride the festival ferry to Randalls Island. Check out the MTA bus fares and purchase your ferry ticket ahead of time.
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Commonly asked questions about Governors Ball NYC
What is the Governors Ball NYC?
The Governors Ball Festival, or Gov Ball to its fans, is a three-day music festival in New York City. It attracts some of music’s biggest names and features a diverse lineup: Recent years have featured everyone from Nas to Jack White to Chvrches.
Where is the Governors Ball Music Festival?
The Governors Ball takes place at Randalls Island Park on Randalls Island in New York’s East River. The island is northeast of Manhattan, sandwiched between Harlem and Queens. The festival is outside, so don’t forget your sunscreen!
How do I get to Governors Ball Music Festival?
There are lots of ways to get to Governors Ball. You can take the festival ferry from the East 35th Street Ferry Landing in Midtown, hop on a shuttle from Williamsburg, Brooklyn, take the 4, 5 or 6 trains to 125th Street in Harlem or even bike there. There is no parking on Randalls Island — you cannot drive yourself to the festival.
