Castle Clinton 🇺🇸

Located in Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan, Castle Clinton is a restored circular red sandstone fort built between 1808 and 1811. Though designed by John McComb Jr. and Jonathan Williams to complement Governors Island's fortifications, the fort was never used for warfare. Instead, this versatile New York City designated landmark and U.S. national monument has lived many lives: a 6,000-seat entertainment venue known as Castle Garden, the first home of the New York Aquarium, and the first American immigration station—processing over 7.5 million immigrants between 1855 and 1890 before facilities moved to Ellis Island.

When you visit, you will encounter a site rich with layer upon layer of American history. You can explore the historic structure's red sandstone walls, which were originally constructed on an artificial island. Inside, you can imagine its past transformations from a venue hosting political figures and musical performances—such as soprano Jenny Lind's 1850 American debut—to a bustling immigrant rotunda.

Today, the monument serves as a visitor center and the primary departure point for ferries taking travelers to the Statue of Liberty National Monument.

What to see at Castle Clinton

• Restored 1811 circular sandstone fort built off Manhattan's shore
• America's first immigrant processing depot, predating Ellis Island
• Former 19th-century entertainment venue host to Jenny Lind and Samuel Morse
• Departure point for ferries heading to the Statue of Liberty

Visiting tips

Catch your ferry to the Statue of Liberty directly from this historic landmark, which serves as the official ticket location and departure point.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Castle Clinton is easy to reach on Manhattan’s public transport, and pairs naturally with National September 11 Memorial & Museum and Trinity Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Manhattan travel guide.