Exploring the Historic Castle Williams: A Gem of New York Harbor
Discover the historic Castle Williams on Governors Island, a remarkable fortress with stunning views and rich military history in New York Harbor.
Castle Williams, located on Governors Island, is a stunning historical landmark that offers tourists a glimpse into American military history. With its unique architecture and scenic views, it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to Castle Williams
- New York, Manhattan, New York, 10004, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit during special events for an immersive experience with reenactments and guided tours.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic parkland surrounding the castle.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll want to explore both the fort and the beautiful island trails.
- Check the National Park Service website for seasonal hours and any programming updates before your visit.
Getting There
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Subway
To reach Castle Williams, start by finding the nearest subway station. If you are in Manhattan, take the 1 train to South Ferry station. Upon exiting the station, walk towards the Battery Park area. You will see Battery Park directly ahead. Walk through the park towards the waterfront, where you can find the ferry terminal at the southern tip of Manhattan.
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Ferry
At the Battery Park ferry terminal, look for the ticket booth for the Statue Cruises ferry. Purchase a ticket to visit Liberty Island. The ferry will take you past Ellis Island and will stop at Liberty Island. Upon arrival at Liberty Island, you will see Castle Williams in the distance. Take a short walk to the castle, which is located on the island.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk and are already in Battery Park, it is about a 15-minute walk to the ferry terminal. Once you are at the terminal, you can board the ferry to Liberty Island and enjoy the scenic views of New York Harbor on your way to Castle Williams.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you are further away or prefer not to use public transport, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to Battery Park. Simply tell the driver to take you to Battery Park, New York, NY 10004. Once you arrive, follow the same steps to board the ferry to Liberty Island.
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