Castle Clinton - Free Audio Guide

Castle Clinton is a 19th‑century circular fortification in Battery Park, Manhattan, representing several phases of New York’s past. Built in the early 1800s as a coastal defence, it later became Castle Garden, an entertainment venue and, between 1855 and 1890, the city’s first immigrant processing centre before those operations moved elsewhere. In the 20th century it accommodated the New York Aquarium and was subsequently preserved as a federal historic site administered by the National Park Service. Its cultural importance stems from military, civic and immigration associations and a long tradition of public use. Notable features include the stone fort, interpretive displays about immigration and maritime history, and views across the harbour. The site operates under defined visiting hours and admission arrangements managed by its custodians, and provides accessibility accommodations.