Federal Hall National Memorial: A Tribute to American Democracy
Explore the historic Federal Hall National Memorial in NYC, where George Washington took the oath of office and the foundations of American democracy were laid.
Federal Hall National Memorial is a remarkable historical site located in the bustling Financial District of Manhattan. Once the site of George Washington's inauguration as the first President of the United States, this iconic building has been a symbol of American democracy since its completion in 1842. Visitors can marvel at its stunning neoclassical architecture, featuring grand columns and a magnificent staircase leading up to the entrance, which evokes the grandeur of ancient Greece and Rome, cultures that heavily influenced the formation of American ideals. Inside, the memorial houses an engaging museum that provides insights into the early years of the United States government. Exhibits showcase pivotal moments in history, including the ratification of the Bill of Rights and the evolution of American democracy. The centerpiece of the memorial is the statue of George Washington, which serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the responsibilities that come with it. The site also offers guided tours that delve deeper into the historical significance of Federal Hall, making it an educational experience for visitors of all ages. As you explore Federal Hall, take a moment to appreciate its surroundings. Situated on Wall Street, the memorial is conveniently located near other iconic landmarks such as the New York Stock Exchange and Battery Park. This allows for a full day of exploration in one of the most historic areas of New York City. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to soak in the rich culture of the city, Federal Hall National Memorial is a must-visit destination that showcases the foundational principles of the United States.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Check for guided tour timings to enhance your understanding of the site's historical significance.
- Don’t forget to take photos of the iconic steps and the statue of George Washington outside.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Financial District for a full historical experience.
A brief summary to Federal Hall National Memorial
- 26 Wall St, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10005, US
- +1212-825-6990
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Train
From Yonkers station, take the Metro-North Railroad Hudson Line train heading towards Grand Central Terminal. The ride will take approximately 25 minutes. Get off at the 'Grand Central' stop. Once you exit the station, follow the signs to the 42nd Street exit. After exiting, walk towards 42nd Street and turn right, heading towards Park Avenue. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Park Avenue. Here, you will catch the 4 or 5 subway lines at the Grand Central-42nd Street subway station.
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Subway
Once you are at the Grand Central-42nd Street subway station, take the 4 or 5 subway train heading downtown towards Brooklyn. Ride for 5 stops and get off at the 'Wall Street' station. After exiting the subway, follow the signs to Wall Street. As you walk, you'll notice the famous financial district around you. Once you reach Wall Street, walk west toward 26 Wall St. Federal Hall National Memorial will be on your left.
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Bus
From the Yonkers Public Library, catch the Bee-Line Bus #1 heading towards the Yonkers train station. Ride for 5 stops until you reach the station. There, transfer to the Metro-North Hudson Line train toward Grand Central Terminal. After arriving at Grand Central, follow the subway instructions above to reach Federal Hall. Alternatively, you can also take the Bee-Line Bus #6 from the library directly to the White Plains Road/Wall Street stop, and then walk to Federal Hall.
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Walking
If you are near the Yonkers waterfront, you can enjoy a scenic walk. Head north along the Hudson River on the Riverwalk. Follow the path until you reach the Yonkers train station. From there, take the Metro-North to Grand Central Terminal and follow the subway directions to Federal Hall as mentioned before.
Attractions Nearby to Federal Hall National Memorial
Landmarks nearby to Federal Hall National Memorial
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The Fearless Girl
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28 Liberty Street
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48 Wall St
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Financial District
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Red Cube by Isamu Noguchi
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Wall St
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Hanover Square
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Charging Bull
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Stone St
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The Anne Frank Tree
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St. Nicholas National Shrine
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Remnant Of Lovelace Tavern, Old Dutch Tavern
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Original Cistern of New Amsterdam Era
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Portal Down to Old New York
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PATH Time Capsule