The New York Borough of Staten Island was primarily farmland until the 1960s when the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge was built. This allowed for an increase in the island's population, which is mainly residential today with many parks and golf courses. The Staten Island Ferry, now free of charge, helps draw tourists to the island and makes transportation to Manhattan easier for locals. The six-mile scenic route features unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the New York harbor. Several unique museums and galleries can be found on Staten Island for visitors who enjoy arts and culture. Miles of beaches can also be enjoyed for sunbathing, swimming, pier fishing and other recreational activities.