Battery Park

The Basics

Battery Park has a rich and diverse history. It's named after the artillery batteries once located on the site, and was the location of New York's first aquarium. Before Ellis Island opened in 1892, the park welcomed European newcomers to America. Today, Battery Park is a tranquil, delicately landscaped outdoor space that hosts summer events such as the River to River arts festival.

Harbor cruises and guided tours are a great value for visitors who want to visit the park and explore the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Tickets can be purchased in advance, which is a good way to secure seats on busy summer weekends. Most group tours offer audio headsets for free, and some even provide bus transportation.

Things to Know Before You Go

• With memorials honoring soldiers that served in World War II and the Korean War, Battery Park is a must for history buffs.

• Check the weather, since Battery Park is most fun when you can stroll and enjoy the unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty.

• Adventurous visitors can try helicopter tours, and romantics can opt for a dinner cruise.

How to Get There

Located at the very southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park is situated between Bowling Green and the Whitehall Ferry Terminal. It's best to visit the park by subway; take the 1 train to the South Ferry Station, the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green, or the R or W train to Whitehall Street.

When to Get There

Battery Park is open year-round, but since most of the park's attractions are outside, visiting in spring, summer, or fall is best. Because of its seaside location, Battery Park is often windy and chilly in winter months. If you're visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, arrive in the morning.

The SeaGlass Carousel

The SeaGlass Carousel is the perfect place for kids to experience the magic of the ocean. On the aquarium-themed ride, children spin around atop multicolored, musical fish. The carousel is located inside a unique glass building and costs only a few dollars to ride. Open seven days a week, year-round, the carousel is even open on Christmas and New Year's Eve.

What attractions can be found in Battery Park?

Attractions in New York City’s Battery Park include the Skyscraper Museum, Irish Hunger Memorial, Museum of Jewish Heritage, American Merchant Mariners’ Memorial, and SeaGlass Carousel. You can also take a boat ride to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park in Manhattan.

Are there guided tours available in Battery Park?

Yes and no—although you can prebook self-guided tours or tours that combine a visit to Battery Park with other Manhattan highlights, there are no dedicated tours of Battery Park. Most tours that depart from Battery Park go to the Statue of Liberty.

What are the best times to visit Battery Park?

The best time of year to visit Battery Park in New York City weather-wise is from May to October, although summer can be hot and humid. You can visit Battery Park in Manhattan anytime, but sunrise and sunset often offer pretty skies.

Is there a fee to enter Battery Park?

No, walking around Battery Park doesn’t require an entry fee. However, you may need to pay if you want to visit nearby attractions or hop on the ferry. Research before your visit to see where you’d like to go, when it's open, and the cost.

Is Battery Park dog-friendly?

Yes, most hard-surfaced outdoor areas in Battery Park are dog-friendly, although lawns and greenspaces are generally not. Dogs must be on a leash and cannot enter most nearby buildings or attractions. There are several off-leash dog runs in Battery Park City.

Are there restroom facilities available in Battery Park?

Yes, there are bathroom facilities in Battery Park. One is inside the Battery Park City Ferry Terminal, two are inside Brookfield Place, and one is inside the Solaire Building adjacent to Teardrop Park. The Wagner Park bathrooms are under construction (2025 reopening).

Ways to explore

Battery Park offers plenty for visitors to explore independently. In addition to features like an aquarium-themed carousel and interactive playscape, you’ll find an urban farm, perennial gardens, outdoor cafés, and historical monuments. Thanks to its location on the water, with extensive bike paths, it’s commonly featured on bike tours of Lower Manhattan.

Many cruises and ferries depart from Battery Park, including to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You can also see the Manhattan skyline on a specialty sailing trip or brunch cruise, or opt for a helicopter tour, taking in views of the park and more of NYC from up high.

Accessibility

Most of the park is accessible to people who use wheelchairs, but some facilities, such as parts of the playground, have limited access.

Age limits

None—Battery Park is popular among families traveling with children.

What to pack

Sunscreen, water bottles, picnic blankets

What to wear

Comfortable clothes for the weather, walking shoes, layers for river breezes

Not allowed

Smoking or vaping, alcohol

Amenities

Restrooms, playgrounds, Wi-Fi

Address

At the very southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park is situated between Bowling Green and the Whitehall Ferry Terminal. It’s easy to reach via public transit, taxi, or even walking or biking.

Driving

Driving is generally not recommended due to extremely limited parking in the area. If you must drive, booking a parking spot in advance using an app like SpotHero can make for a smooth arrival.

Public transportation

The subway is the easiest way to get to the park, which is directly across the street from South Ferry station (1). Bowling Green (4, 5) and Whitehall Street (R, W) are also a short walk away.

Best times to visit

If you’re going to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, arrive in the morning to avoid the crowds. For stunning photo ops, come to the park just before sunset.

Best days to visit

You’ll experience fewer crowds by visiting midweek and avoiding the weekend rush.

Best months to visit

Battery Park is open year-round, but since most of the park’s attractions are outside, visiting in the spring, summer, or fall is best.

Special events

Check out a full lineup of events in the summer, including the Battery Dance Festival, the Rivers and Blues concert series, and the Swedish Midsummer Festival, celebrating the solstice.