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Castle Clinton National Monument

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Located at the southern tip of Manhattan Island, Castle Clinton represents not only the growth of New York City, but the growth of a Nation. First intended to keep out a British invasion in 1812, the Castle has transformed over the years to welcome theater goers, immigrants, sightseers and now millions of visitors to New York Harbor.



 The Basics


Hours:

Castle Clinton is open daily (except December 25), 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Due to inclement weather, the sight might close. Please call ahead. 212-344-7220.

Address: Battery Park
New York, NY 10005
Phone: 212-344-7220


 Directions

Castle Clinton is located in historic Battery Park and is only directly accessible by foot, bicycle or wheelchair. You can not directly drive to the site.

To get to Battery Park from New Jersey
Any bridge or tunnel to Manhattan. West Side Highway south to Battery Park.

From the East
Any bridge or tunnel to Manhattan. FDR Drive south to last exit (exit 1). Broad Street to Water Street. Left on Water Street to Battery Park.


 Climate
 

Due to its location at the foot of New York Harbor, Castle Clinton can be a lovely place to have an outdoor lunch or a place to test extreme weather gear. Spring and Fall are generally mild. However, winters bring on the full force of wind swept harbor waters and can be quite cold. Summers tend to be very hot and humid. Please dress accordingly.

Link to our New York City Weather coverage for more information.

 Fees
 

No Fees.
There is a fee for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferries.


 Things To Do
 

Due to its open air construction, all activities are considered outdoors at the Monument. You can take a ranger guided tour of the Castle, meet a War of 1812 soldier, listen to a concert, jump on a ferry to the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island or just sit down on a bench and enjoy your lunch at the foot of Manhattan.


 Guided Tours
 

Offered daily at 10:00 am, 12:00 noon, and 2:00 pm, this 20 minute ranger guided tour illustrates the colorful history of Castle Clinton and how it served as a fort, entertainment center, immigration depot and aquarium.

Meet a soldier who is part of the harbor defenses during the War of 1812. Learn about the uniforms, arms, and equipment of a young American Army and military life during one of America's forgotten wars. Offered at no charge to schools and groups by reservation only. Please call 212-344-7220.



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