Expert Connection
Staten Island

Dongan Hills, Staten Island Neighborhood

Nestled on Staten Island’s eastern shore, Dongan Hills is a vibrant, close-knit neighborhood known for its welcoming atmosphere and distinctive character. The area enjoys a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, with leafy residential streets lined by an eclectic mix of cozy Cape Cods, well-kept colonials, and charming garden apartments. This diverse architectural charm, paired with wide sidewalks and mature trees, fosters a strollable, peaceful vibe that residents treasure.

The heart of Dongan Hills is Hylan Boulevard, where everyday essentials, independent eateries, and boutique shops create a lively local hub. Popular spots like neighborhood pizzerias and longstanding Italian bakeries set a friendly, familiar tone, making it easy for neighbors to connect over coffee or a meal. Just steps away, the inviting sprawl of Miller Field provides wide-open green spaces for recreation and community events, while the stately Dongan Hills Library serves as a cornerstone for learning and connection.

Living in Dongan Hills means enjoying a true sense of community—where neighbors greet each other by name and families gather for seasonal festivals and block parties. Balancing calm residential living with vibrant local amenities, Dongan Hills stands out as a hidden gem on Staten Island, beloved for its warmth, character, and enduring sense of home.

Highlights of Dongan Hills

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Dongan Hills Playground

Located at the corner of Seaver Avenue and Mason Avenue, Dongan Hills Playground is a beloved community park featuring modern play equipment, basketball courts, and shaded picnic tables, serving as a social hub for local families and children year-round.

🏫 P.S. 52 John C. Thompson Elementary School

This neighborhood elementary school, situated on Buel Avenue, is known for its educational excellence and community events, anchoring a strong sense of neighborhood pride among residents with its active PTA and afterschool programs.

🍽️ Hylan Boulevard Restaurant Strip

Running through the heart of Dongan Hills, Hylan Boulevard features a collection of diverse restaurants and eateries—ranging from classic diners like Mike's Unicorn Diner to Italian bakeries—making it a local dining destination.

🛒 Dongan Hills Richmond Road Shopping Corridor

This busy stretch of Richmond Road houses an array of neighborhood staples including supermarkets, specialty shops, and pharmacies, providing convenient shopping options for everyday necessities and specialty goods.

🚴 Midland Beach Bike Path

Easily accessible from Dongan Hills, this paved bike path connects the neighborhood to the Staten Island shoreline, offering scenic views and a safe route for cyclists and joggers to enjoy outdoor recreation along the waterfront.

A Staten Island Neighborhood

This August in Dongan Hills

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

August 13, 2026

5th Annual UFT Back to School BBQ Event

P.S. 18 (221 Broadway, Staten Island, NY) • 12:00 PM–2:00 PM

A festive back‐to‐school BBQ right in Staten Island, ideal for families in Dongan Hills to connect with local educators and neighbors as the new school year approaches.

August 15, 2026

Cottage Row Curiosities Artisan Market

Cottage Row at Snug Harbor (1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY) • 12:00 PM–5:00 PM

A vibrant artisan market featuring over 40 Staten Island vendors plus live pop‑up music and local food—perfect for Dongan Hills residents seeking community shopping and entertainment nearby.

August 19, 2026

Family Fun Day 2026

Willowbrook Park Carousel (Richmond Avenue & Eton Place, Staten Island, NY) • 11:00 AM–2:00 PM

Hosted by a local assemblyman, this engaging event offers rides and activities at Willowbrook Park—a convenient, family‑friendly outing for those in Dongan Hills.

August 29, 2026

Back to School Event (For All Ages)

Pride Center of Staten Island (66 Willow Avenue, Staten Island, NY) • 10:30 AM–12:30 PM

A community gathering offering free prefilled backpacks and resources to support students—with inclusive programming—beneficial to families in Dongan Hills preparing for school.

August 27, 2026

Force MDs Way Legacy Day

Mariners Harbor, Staten Island • Starts 12:00 PM

A lively celebration of Staten Island heritage with music, community services, awards, and a unity walk; great for Dongan Hills residents interested in borough‑wide community pride events.

Thursdays & Saturdays, through August 2026

Snug Harbor Heritage Farm Stand (with workshops & cooking demos)

Snug Harbor Sustainability Center, Staten Island, NY • Thursdays 3:00 PM–6:00 PM; Saturdays 9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Weekly farm stands offering fresh local produce, cooking demos, and workshops—excellent for Dongan Hills residents seeking seasonal produce and educational food events.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Dongan Hills

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Dongan Hills

Neighborhood Characteristics

Full Guide →

Demographics

Full View →