Castle Clinton National Monument

★ 4.9 (83K+ reviews) • 132K+ booked

Explore history at Castle Clinton National Monument! Located at the tip of Manhattan Island, this iconic site has a fascinating past. Originally built as a defense against the British in 1812, Castle Clinton has undergone significant changes over the years. It was previously called Southwest Battery and later renamed Castle Clinton after Mayor DeWitt Clinton in 1817; the fortress never engaged in battle. From 1855 to 1890, over 8 million immigrants arrived in America through Castle Garden. After its closure, the site reopened as the New York City Aquarium, a New York City landmark, in 1896 and quickly became a popular attraction until 1941. Discover the transformation of Castle Clinton from a fortress to an entertainment hub and New York Herald Tribune!

Castle Clinton, 10, Battery Place, Whitehall, Manhattan, New York County, City of New York, New York, United States

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4.9 /5

83K+ reviews

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Ku *****

2 Sep

The long-awaited Harry Potter is back, this time focusing on the next generation and telling the story of what happens next. The set design and effects are absolutely stunning and worth seeing.

劉 **

23 Aug

The boat is a bit small, but everyone can find a seat with a good view, which is nice. If you don't have much time, this is a good tour option.

Klook User

23 Aug

ease of booking on Klook:very good experience for a ticket with Klook, just buy and use, got the tickets without 30 seconds

HUANG ********

23 Aug

This is a really convenient pass. If you have decided on specific attractions, you can buy the pass and book immediately. If your itinerary is very flexible, you can book in advance based on the situation at each attraction (SUMMIT needs to be booked one day in advance, while The Edge can be booked a few hours before the visit on the same day). In terms of cost, it is really more cost-effective than buying tickets for each attraction individually. However, if you are choosing attractions like MoMA where tickets are cheaper, it is not recommended to use the pass. In my experience, I used it for Top of the Rock Observation Deck, The Edge, and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

클룩 회원

20 Aug

Thank you for assigning us great seats. We had a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience.

Jairus *******

19 Aug

It was fun being here in one of the most iconic spots in NYC - The Empire State building comprising of 103 floors. We had the opportunity to learn the history of the said building and explored what the spot has to offer.

Zhao **********

18 Aug

Our tour guide Molly is good performance and explain every place and history. Overall is a good experience for see liberty and other New York Landmarks.

Klook 用戶

16 Aug

Lots of special effects, various magic tricks, and fire-breathing – truly cool! Anyone who has seen Harry Potter, even if they aren't a fan, should come see it! Plus, it's newer than The Lion King and Aladdin.

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Why is Castle Clinton famous?

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What did the immigrants do inside Castle Garden?

What to do at Castle Clinton National Monument

Castle Clinton

Visit the heart of New York's storied past at Castle Clinton, a site that has worn many hats over the centuries. Originally built as a fort to protect the city during the War of 1812, this historic landmark has since evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. From hosting illustrious theater performances to welcoming millions of immigrants as America's first official immigration station, Castle Clinton is a living testament to the city's dynamic history. Today, visitors can explore its rich past through guided tours and exhibits, making it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Battery Park

Battery Park offers breathtaking views of New York Harbor and the iconic Statue of Liberty, providing the perfect backdrop for a stroll or a relaxing picnic. As you wander through its scenic paths, you'll find yourself immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic area, making it an ideal starting point for your exploration of nearby attractions like Castle Clinton.

Castle Garden

Travel back in time to the golden age of entertainment at Castle Garden, the former identity of Castle Clinton from 1823 to 1854. This illustrious venue was once the epicenter of New York's cultural scene, hosting grand operas and theater performances that captivated audiences. It even witnessed the American debut of the legendary 'Swedish Nightingale,' Jenny Lind. Today, while the performances have moved on, the echoes of its vibrant past continue to enchant visitors, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.

Castle Clinton Guided Tours

Join us for an exciting exploration of Castle Clinton with our free guided tours! Available to the public every day from Monday to Sunday at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:30 PM, these 20-minute tours are led by knowledgeable Park Rangers. Discover the rich history of Castle Clinton, from its origins as a fort to its role as an entertainment hub, immigration depot, and aquarium. No reservation is needed---just show up and immerse yourself in the colorful past of this iconic landmark! Please note that tour availability may vary based on staff schedules.

Eastern National Bookstore

Explore the Eastern National Bookstore---a treasure trove of educational and interpretive products for visitors! Operated by Eastern National, a non-profit organization working closely with America's National Parks, the store showcases a wide array of high-quality books about Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War, and U.S. Presidents. Plus, there is a diverse selection of children's books available for purchase. Browse through an assortment of unique items, including stovepipe hats, walking sticks, and locally inspired products, all designed to complement the themes you encounter during your park visit.

Tips for Your Castle Clinton National Monument Visit

When is the best time to visit Castle Clinton National Monument?

The ideal time to explore Castle Clinton National Monument is during the spring and fall. These seasons offer mild weather and beautiful scenery, making it a delightful experience to wander around the monument and its picturesque surroundings in Battery Park.

How to get to Castle Clinton National Monument?

Castle Clinton is conveniently located in Battery Park and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. You can reach it by car, bus, subway, or ferry. The nearest subway stations are South Ferry and Bowling Green, ensuring a hassle-free journey to this historic site.

Is Castle Clinton free?

Yes, visiting Castle Clinton is free of charge! Explore this historic site at no cost, and enjoy guided tours provided by the National Park Service when the monument is open to the public. While there, you can also delve into a small history exhibit and even catch a concert from time to time. Experience the rich heritage of Castle Clinton without any admission fees!

Castle Clinton National Monument