If you travel from Manhattan on the Staten Island Ferry you will get the best views of New York City for free. Beyond the ferry terminal, Staten Island has a cultural center at Snug Harbor, its own zoo and a Tibetan art museum.
Richmondtown also features a collection of New York City buildings, some as old as 300 years. Staten Island also has numerous gardens, cultural centers, museums, historic sites, theaters and parks. "Postcards" - The Staten Island September 11 Memorial is impressive.