Battery Park
In addition to spectacular views and green-space, Battery Park is rich in history with many monuments to soldiers, explorers, inventors, and immigrants
Named for the artillery battery that was stationed to defend the southern tip of Manhattan before the War of 1812, Battery Park is a waterfront public park rich in history of the early settlement of New York including Castle Clinton, one of the New York Harbor forts built in 1807.
Prior to the opening of the Ellis Island immigration centre, it was the entry point for millions of new immigrants. Despite being one of New York's oldest public spaces, Battery Park has undergone significant upgrades the latest of which is the major renovation and reopening of the old NYC Department of Docks and Harbor Police building also known as Pier A.
Both Pier A and the waterfront esplanade provide great views of the waterways, New Jersey, Brooklyn, Staten Island, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. They also house the terminal where you catch the ferry to Liberty and Ellis Island. In the warmer months, outdoor shows and concerts are held regularly in the park or just relax in the Battery Bosque Gardens and picnic area.
Battery Park contains many monuments honouring soldiers, explorers, inventors, and immigrants. It is currently the home to Fritz Koenig's sculpture The Sphere, which previously stood a few blocks away in the center plaza of the World Trade Center before the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Located near the Hope Garden in the northern section of the park, The Sphere was designed to represent world peace, but has also taken on new significance as a monument to those who lost their lives in the attack. A perennial Garden of Remembrance was also constructed on the Battery Park Promenade to pay tribute to the survivors and to those lost on September 11th and to serve as sign of optimism and hope for the community. The Battery Conservatory also created the Battery Labyrinth, walking path outlined forming seven circular rings, to commemorate the first anniversary of the World Trade Center tragedy to offer the public a way to honour, reflect and heal.
The park is also home to Pier A Harbour House, a beautifully restored building that was built in the late 1800s to house the New York City Department of Docks and Harbor Police. This historic building subsequently served as a NYC fireboat station from 1960 until 1992 after which point the building was left unused and fell into a state of disrepair. After a painstaking $40 million restoration, this 28,000 square foot building has been restored to its former glory and is now an awesome people space complete with a new restaurant and beer garden. Now that the updates are complete you can walk right out to the end of the pier and enjoy the superb views of the harbour including Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Nearby attractions: Statue of Liberty, Staten Island Ferry, Brooklyn Bridge, Skyscraper Museum, National Museum of the American Indian, St. Paul's Chapel, Trinity Church and the Financial District.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoBattery Park Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Address: New York, NY 10004, USA
Phone: (212) 344-3491
Official Website: Battery Park
Battery Park Reviews
Rated out of 5
The location is great for viewing the statue of Liberty, but there are boards up to not get a better view of the statues of liberty. The park is refreshing to sit in the shade and cool down a bit. Missing view as there is construction at the moment. I'd wait to come back here for any type of view.
Ruben Garcia (Forget_about_it) - a month ago
A peaceful green space at the southern tip of Manhattan, with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor. Great place for a walk, ferry rides, or just relaxing by the water. Beautiful gardens, historical monuments, and a calm break from the city buzz. Perfect start or end to a visit to Liberty and Ellis Island.
Marcin Kisielewski - a month ago
If you would like a great way to see the Statue of Liberty, the free ferry offers rides across over to Staten Island. Simply get off the ferry and get right back on for a second view. Great budget. Friendly way to see the Statue of Liberty. Of course there are ticketed adventures if you'd like to pay. For what my family wanted to do, it was the perfect way to see this iconic and memorable statue.
Cindy Starcher - a month ago
Started our Statue of Liberty tour here. It’s busy, a bit chaotic, but full of energy and great harbor views. Pigeons strut around like they own the place, tourists everywhere, and somehow it all works.
There are playground where the kids burned off energy while we figured out where the ferry line actually starts. Worth arriving early just for that!
Perfect launch point for Liberty Island, just pack patience and snacks!
Nusrat A - a month ago
Battery Park Playground Review — A Hidden Gem for Kids in Downtown NYC
Battery Park isn’t just for tourists and Statue of Liberty views — it’s also home to one of the best playgrounds in Lower Manhattan! Tucked away near the waterfront, this spacious and well-designed play area is a total win for families.
The playground is clean, modern, and filled with a variety of fun features: water sprinklers for hot days, climbing structures, slides, tunnels, and even musical play elements. There’s plenty of seating for parents and shaded spots to cool off. It’s also safely fenced in, which is a big plus in the busy city.
What makes it extra special? While the kids play, you can enjoy gorgeous views of the Hudson River and nearby boats sailing by. You’re just a short walk from the Seaglass Carousel, the Staten Island Ferry, and even Little Island if you're up for more exploring.
Rating: 9/10
Perfect for: Families, toddlers, and anyone looking for a relaxing, playful escape in the city
Tip: Go early on weekends to avoid crowds and pack a towel if your kids love splash zones!
Obidur Rahman - a month ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Ferry | 2 minutes |
| N or R | Whitehall Street | 5 minutes |
| 4 or 5 | Bowling Green | 2 minutes |
How to get to Battery Park by Subway
Take the 1 train to South Ferry, turn left into Battery Park or take the N or R train to Whitehall Street, head north toward Pearl Street, turn left on Bridge Street, follow path into park (5 minutes) or take the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green, head south on Broadway, turn right on Battery Place, turn left on Greenwich Street and continue into park.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Battery Park:
Photo Gallery
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Overlooking Battery Park cc licensed photo by Paul Lowry -
Cycling in Battery Park cc licensed photo by Juan Alberto Puentes Puertas -
The recently restored and beautiful Pier A cc licensed photo by Joe Mabel -
'Soap Boxers' in Battery Park cc licensed photo by The_th -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: chany14 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: jjbers - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: jjbers - cc license via Flickr
