Castle Clinton National Monument

Originally built to protect New York Harbor during the War of 1812, this national monument has had many different uses over the years. Located at the southern tip of Battery Park, tourists can purchase their tickets here to ride the ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The site also offers guided tours and features exhibits that tell the story of the monument’s rich history.

Many Transformations

Castle Clinton was built between 1808 and 1811 to defend the city’s harbor from a British invasion. (The cannons actually were never once fired for defence; shots only rang out for training purposes and celebrations.) In 1940, the circular fort became an opera house and was renamed Castle Garden. It then became New York City’s first immigration center from 1855 to1890. Ellis Island opened in 1892, and the Castle Clinton building underwent yet another change- it became the New York City Aquarium from 1896-1941.

Today Castle Clinton houses exhibits which display the many changes the site has undergone throughout history, as well as a bookstore. It also hosts an annual concert series.

Visiting Castle Clinton in New York City

The Castle Clinton National Monument is located in Battery Park, near Manhattan’s Financial District. Ferries depart from the Battery Park Promenade which is located just outside the monument.

Location: in Battery Park, New York City, New York
Visitor Services: 212-344-7220
Support: Contact Form

Click here to visit Castle Clinton National Monument official website.