What music festivals take place on the island?

Squeezing in crowds of up to 40,000 music-lovers, this island knows how to throw a party.

Festivals include The Governor's Ball (June), Electric Zoo for fans of electronic music (September), and the country music festival FarmBorough (June).

What is the surrounding area like?

Sporting plenty of playing fields and green space, the island offers an antidote to the hectic pace of Manhattan. Inevitably that means little in the way of established pubs and bars, too. If it's nightlife you're after, you'll have to cross over the bridge to Manhattan or the Bronx to carry on the fun.

What are the 'must do' things in the nearby area?

The island's pathways

Randall's Island is like a honeypot to runners and cyclists who whiz around the eight miles of dedicated pathways, including a waterfront path with sweet views across the river.

Yankee Stadium

Baseball fans can get their hands on artifacts like Babe Ruth's bat and Derek Jeter's jersey during a trip around Bronx's Yankee Stadium. The guided tour is led by the museum's curator, so comes with a pretty hefty price tag of $125.

Museum of the City of New York

Its streets and skyscrapers are shown in endless films, but how much do you really know about New York City? Bone up at this museum, built in 1932, which explores the many fascinating cultures and lives of the city's urban landscape. Visitors pay $14 for an afternoon's worth of entertainment including a 22-minute video narrated by the actor Stanley Tucci.

Where are the best places to eat near Randall's Island?

Nocciola

Steaming plates of homemade pasta and Italian food draw the crowds to this East Harlem restaurant. Diners can enjoy the cozy interior or lounge at a table on the outdoor patio.

Ricardo Steakhouse

Get in quick for a table at this popular steakhouse in East Harlem. It has a lively atmosphere with DJs playing and brick walls covered in urban artwork from the neighbourhood.

Patsy's Pizzeria

Based on 1st Avenue near the bridge, Patsy's is a good spot for those looking for a nearby joint. The food is spot-on, with pizzas covered in the freshest tomato sauce and cooked in a coal-fired oven.

Xochimilco Family Restaurant

Staying in the Bronx? This Melrose Avenue restaurant celebrates authentic Mexican food with dishes like mole poblano (fire-roasted chicken), shredded tacos, and chilli-kicked cocktails.

View more restaurants near Randall's Island

What's the best way to get to Randall's Island?

The island is between Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx, separated from Manhattan by the Harlem River. Parking is either restricted or a complete no-go for big concerts and events, so you'd be best going by bike or public transport. From Manhattan, you can also take the Ward's Island footbridge: walk all the way east on E 102nd Street until you reach the Harlem River then take the footbridge from there. Once you're on the island, turn left and walk along the Harlem River Pathway, which will lead you round to the stadium and park.

Will there be a ferry running?

It depends on the event. Ferries might be put on for festivals and larger events - going from East 35th Street to the island's dock on Harlem River.

How's the food and drink?

Facilities on the island are few and far between. Granted, the event is likely to have concession stands but, if your ticket allows it, consider bringing your own drinks and snacks to enjoy in the greenery. That's what picnic benches were made for, right?

Any other info the visitor might want to know?

To keep up your comfort-levels, don't shy away from using bug spray or slapping on the sun lotion.