Castle Clinton National Monument

Not much to see here, but a nice place to wait in line and explore to get tickets for the Ellis Island/Statue of Liberty ferry boat excursion.

Be sure to see the museum, did you know this was once an island? If going to the Statue of Liberty, you are in the same general area, so don't miss it. My grandparents when they immigrated it was before Elis Island and this is where they were welcomed into the country. Amazing to see the old fort with the tall buildings in the background.

When inside, you don't feel like you are in the city any more. It feels as if you stepped back in time somewhere in Virginia.

They really stick to their hours and are not at all flexible. It was a cute museum and nice grounds, but you really need to review the hours or even call ahead. It is a small museum but interesting. We did not get a chance to go into the gift shop since they were closing.

A slice of early American military history. When built during the 1st decade of the 19th century America was not getting the respect it had earned... & deserved. Our republic was unique; the world stood in awe of our stamina, & was sure that we'd soon throw in the towel. & beg Britain to allow us back.

New York harbor was our most prized asset, & Castle Clinton was designed to proudly stand sentry should we be invaded. As you walk between its walls... try to imagine what it would have been like to be stationed there... a garrison guarding a new nation, still teething.

Within 5 years we were again at war; this garrison was a key defender against, first the Canadians from 1812 thru mid-1814, & then the Brits during 1814. However... even w/out its rich history it's just plain -fun- to explore!