May 25, 2012
Also Visit NY State Arts
Castle Clinton National Monument
Who would think that in the shadows of Wall Street's modern skyscrapers stands a living monument to a war fought long ago, in New York's front yard? Castle Clinton, at the southern tip of Manhattan on Battery Park's waterfront, is a fort built to protect New York City during the War of 1812. At various times in its later history, Castle Clinton served as military headquarters for the U.S. Army, an opera house, the New York Aquarium, an immigration center and a site for gala society balls. The original 19th-century fortifications and a small exhibition gallery are open to visitors. The National Park Service offers several tours and programs in and around Castle Clinton.
- Directions: Subway: 4, 5 to Bowling Green
- Disability Access: Fully accessible
- Gift Shops: Includes a bookstore
- On-Site Food: Bag lunches may be eaten in Battery Park
- On-Site Parking: Commercial lots nearby; street parking is extremely limited
- Tours: Tours of the site daily at 10 am, 12 & 2 pm
See more at NYC-Arts
Castle Clinton National Monument Listings
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Ongoing Inside the former fortress' walls is a museum illustrating the colorful history of Castle Clinton, including how it has served as a fort, entertainment center, immigration depot and aquarium.