Castle Clinton National Monument
National Monument · New York
NPS Photo/Laura Brennan
Restored fort in Manhattan, New York
Castle Clinton is a restored circular sandstone fort within Battery Park at the southern end of Manhattan in New York City, United States. Built from 1808 to 1811, it was the first American immigration station, predating Ellis Island. More than 7.5 million people arrived in the United States at Fort Clinton between 1855 and 1890. Over its active life, it has also functioned as a beer garden, exhibition hall, theater, and public aquarium. The structure is a New York City designated landmark and a U.S. national monument, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
About Castle Clinton National Monument
Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, Castle Clinton marks the place where New York City began and reflects the growth of both the city and the nation. Built to defend the harbor during the War of 1812, it has since welcomed theatergoers, immigrants, and sightseers—and today continues to greet millions of visitors to New York Harbor.
Activities
Operating Hours
Castle Clinton
Castle Clinton is open daily except Thanksgiving day and Christmas Day.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:45AM - 5:00PM | 7:45AM - 5:00PM | 7:45AM - 5:00PM | 7:45AM - 5:00PM | 7:45AM - 5:00PM | 7:45AM - 5:00PM | 7:45AM - 5:00PM |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Castle Clinton National Monument?
Castle Clinton National Monument is free to enter.
What are the best activities at Castle Clinton National Monument?
Popular activities at Castle Clinton National Monument include: Arts and Culture, Guided Tours, Junior Ranger Program, Shopping, Bookstore and Park Store.
What is the weather like at Castle Clinton National Monument?
Castle Clinton National Monument has a variety of weather. New York City has hot summers and cold winters. Spring can have heavy rains and Autumn can be cool. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=New+York&state=NY&site=OKX&lat=40.7198&lon=-73.993#.Vqj8OvkrJlZ
How do I get to Castle Clinton National Monument?
Castle Clinton is located in historic Battery Park. It is only directly accessible by foot, bicycle, or wheelchair. You cannot drive directly to the site. Local parking is nearly impossible to find and expensive. All public transportation options are located outside of Battery Park.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
Weather
Castle Clinton National Monument has a variety of weather. New York City has hot summers and cold winters. Spring can have heavy rains and Autumn can be cool. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=New+York&state=NY&site=OKX&lat=40.7198&lon=-73.993#.Vqj8OvkrJlZ
Directions
Castle Clinton is located in historic Battery Park. It is only directly accessible by foot, bicycle, or wheelchair. You cannot drive directly to the site. Local parking is nearly impossible to find and expensive. All public transportation options are located outside of Battery Park.
📍 View on Google Maps →Location
Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in New York
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