Data may be outdated — last refreshed April 5, 2026. Visit individual museum websites to confirm hours and exhibition details.

Wall Text

Castle Clinton National Monument

Battery Park30 minuteshistorynps

Castle Clinton is a circular sandstone fort built between 1808 and 1811 to defend New York Harbor, which later served as an entertainment venue, immigration station (processing over 8 million immigrants between 1855 and 1890), and aquarium before becoming a National Monument in 1946. Located at the southern tip of Manhattan in Battery Park, it is one of New York's most storied landmarks.

Permanent Collection

The fort itself is the primary exhibit, with interpretive displays inside the circular walls tracing its transformation from military fortification to entertainment garden, immigrant landing depot, and aquarium. Rangers provide historical programs on the fort's 200-year role in New York City's history.

Collection Highlights

1808–1811 sandstone fortification structureImmigration depot history (1855–1890)Interpretive exhibits on New York Harbor defenseStatue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferry ticket office
Explore the Collection

Hours & Admission

Hours

Monday7:45am – 5pm
Tuesday7:45am – 5pm
Wednesday7:45am – 5pm
ThursdayToday7:45am – 5pm
Friday7:45am – 5pm
Saturday7:45am – 5pm
Sunday7:45am – 5pm

Open daily. Also serves as the departure point for Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferry tickets.

Admission

Free Admission

Free admission. Serves as ticketing center for Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferries.

Access & Getting There

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible

Getting There

4/5 to Bowling Green; 1 to South Ferry

Plan Your Visit

Battery Park, Manhattan, NY 10004

Call: +1-212-344-7220

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