Castle Clinton

Castle Clinton is a circular sandstone fort sitting at the water's edge in Battery Park at Manhattan's southern tip. The thick walls surround an open courtyard where visitors look out across the harbor and passing ships.

The fort was built between 1808 and 1811 to defend New York during tensions with Britain and never saw combat. It later received over 8 million immigrants before that role moved to Ellis Island.

The name honors DeWitt Clinton, New York governor during construction, and the round space later hosted European stars like Jenny Lind in sold-out concerts. Visitors today walk through the central courtyard where crowds once gathered for performances and immigrations ceremonies.

The site now serves as the departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, where visitors collect their tickets. The courtyard is freely accessible and offers shade and seating with views across the harbor.

From 1896 to 1941, the building housed the New York Aquarium with seals and a beluga whale in circular tanks. The fort originally stood on an artificial island but land reclamation later connected it to Manhattan.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1808

Architects: John McComb Jr.

Made from material: sandstone

Part of: Castle Clinton National Monument

GPS coordinates: 40.70361,-74.01667

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:46