Fort Wadsworth New York City
Explore centuries of military history and enjoy breathtaking harbor views at Fort Wadsworth, a strategic guardian of New York City.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Fort Wadsworth New York City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of military history and enjoy breathtaking harbor views at Fort Wadsworth, a strategic guardian of New York City.
"A historic gem with stunning views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and NYC skyline!"
🚶♀️ 24/7 Pedestrian Access
You can walk around Fort Wadsworth anytime, even after vehicle gates close at 10 PM.
🚗 South Beach Parking
If driving, park at South Beach lots for an easy, scenic ride to the fort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Fortifications
Various Battery Locations
Explore centuries of military history, from Dutch colonial defenses to modern structures. A must-see for history buffs!
Staten Island Ferry Views
Waterfront Promenade
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
Southern End of the Park
Marvel at the engineering feat of this iconic suspension bridge, especially striking from the park's vantage points.
Planning Your Visit
Park Access & Hours
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 24/7 Pedestrian Access
You can walk around Fort Wadsworth anytime, even after vehicle gates close at 10 PM.
🚗 South Beach Parking
If driving, park at South Beach lots for an easy, scenic ride to the fort.
I cannot for the life of me figure out when I need to leave Fort Wadsworth
How is parking by Fort Wadsworth, SI?
🚲 Safer Bike Routes
Opt for Front St & Edgewater St for a less car-heavy cycling experience.
📸 Capture Bridge Views
The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is a spectacular sight, especially from the park's waterfront.
Biking from Ferry terminal to ft Wadsworth
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 24/7 Pedestrian Access
You can walk around Fort Wadsworth anytime, even after vehicle gates close at 10 PM.
🚗 South Beach Parking
If driving, park at South Beach lots for an easy, scenic ride to the fort.
🚲 Safer Bike Routes
Opt for Front St & Edgewater St for a less car-heavy cycling experience.
📸 Capture Bridge Views
The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is a spectacular sight, especially from the park's waterfront.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort Wadsworth for its rich history, stunning harbor views, and the impressive Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge vistas. The accessibility for pedestrians 24/7 is a major plus, allowing for flexible exploration. Some find the visitor center hours limiting, and navigating parking can require a bit of planning.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the Staten Island Ferry to St. George Terminal and then either bike or take a bus/taxi to Fort Wadsworth. Driving is also an option via the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. +1
Yes, several MTA buses serve the Fort Wadsworth area. Check the MTA website for specific routes and schedules from your location.
While Bay Street is an option, Front Street and Edgewater Street are recommended for a safer and more scenic bike ride, passing by parks and waterfronts.
If you're driving, consider parking in the South Beach parking lots, which are usually less crowded and offer a pleasant ride to the fort.
Absolutely! The park is accessible to pedestrians 24/7, even when vehicle access is restricted.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fort Wadsworth is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and generally does not require an entrance fee for general access. Check the official NPS website for any special event ticketing.
The visitor center typically closes at 4 PM, but vehicle access via the McLean Avenue gate is open until 10 PM. Pedestrian access is 24/7, and the Bay Street gate is always open.
Yes, Fort Wadsworth is open year-round. However, hours for specific facilities like the visitor center may vary seasonally.
General access to Fort Wadsworth is free. There might be fees for specific tours or events, so it's best to check the National Park Service website.
Yes, you can walk around the park at any time of day or night, as pedestrian access is 24/7. Vehicle access via McLean Avenue closes at 10 PM.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront offers stunning views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Manhattan skyline. Historic battery structures also make for dramatic shots.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed throughout Fort Wadsworth. For commercial photography, permits may be required.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while evenings provide a chance to capture the city lights. Sunrise can also be dramatic over the Narrows.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks. Check the National Park Service regulations for Fort Wadsworth specifically before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the bridge or distant cityscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors can explore various historic batteries and learn about the different eras of defense. The U.S. Army Museum of New York (though its status can vary, check NPS for current exhibits) often provides deeper insights into the fort's past. The sheer scale of the fortifications and the stories they hold offer a compelling journey through American military history. It's a place where you can feel the weight of centuries of strategic importance.
Navigating Fort Wadsworth: Access and Exploration
For those arriving by bike, Bay Street is a viable route, but Redditors suggest that Front Street and Edgewater Street offer a more comfortable and less trafficked experience. These routes pass by scenic spots like Stapleton Waterfront and Alice Austen Parks, adding to the journey. If you're driving, parking in the South Beach parking lots is recommended as a less crowded alternative to parking directly at the fort, followed by a pleasant ride to your destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit