The Battery (formerly known as Battery Park) is New York City’s oldest public park and one of Lower Manhattan’s most scenic waterfront destinations. Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, the park offers spectacular views of New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the city’s bustling waterfront. It’s also the departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, making it one of the most visited parks in New York City.
While many visitors pass through on their way to the Statue of Liberty, The Battery is a destination in its own right. Shady walking paths, beautifully landscaped gardens, public art, historic monuments, and sweeping harbor views make it one of the city’s best places to slow down, relax, and enjoy the waterfront before or after exploring Lower Manhattan.
The Battery gets its name from the artillery batteries that once defended New York Harbor during the city’s colonial era. Although the cannons are long gone, the waterfront park has welcomed visitors for more than 400 years.
The Battery Quick Facts
- Located at the southern tip of Manhattan
- New York City’s oldest public park
- Formerly known as Battery Park
- Named after the defensive artillery batteries that once protected New York Harbor
- Gateway to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferries
- Offers panoramic views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty
- Home to gardens, memorials, monuments, and waterfront promenades
- Free to visit year-round
Things to Do at The Battery
- Take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
- Walk the waterfront promenade overlooking New York Harbor
- Visit Castle Clinton National Monument
- See The Sphere memorial
- Ride the SeaGlass Carousel
- Relax in the park’s gardens and shaded walking paths
- Photograph the Statue of Liberty from the shoreline
- Watch ferries, sailboats, and harbor traffic
- Visit the East Coast Memorial and other historic monuments
- Enjoy seasonal public art installations and waterfront events
Why Visit The Battery?
The Battery offers much more than a departure point for the Statue of Liberty. Its waterfront location, mature trees, beautifully maintained gardens, public art, and historic landmarks make it one of Lower Manhattan’s most enjoyable parks. Whether you’re taking a ferry, exploring the Financial District, or simply looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the harbor, The Battery is well worth a visit.
Perfect For
- First-time visitors to New York City
- Families
- History enthusiasts
- Photographers
- Couples
- Visitors taking the Statue of Liberty ferry
Typical Visit Length
- Park highlights: 30–60 minutes
- Park plus Castle Clinton: 1–2 hours
- Including the Statue of Liberty ferry: Half day or longer
Don’t Miss
Don’t miss Castle Clinton National Monument, the beautifully restored SeaGlass Carousel, and the waterfront promenade overlooking New York Harbor. Even if you’re not taking the ferry, the harbor views, gardens, and Statue of Liberty vistas make The Battery one of Lower Manhattan’s most relaxing places to enjoy the city’s waterfront.
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings are ideal if you’re catching one of the first ferries to the Statue of Liberty, helping you beat the largest crowds. If you’re simply visiting the park, late afternoon is often quieter and offers beautiful harbor views as the sun begins to set over New York Harbor.
The Battery is free to enter. If you’re visiting the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island, purchase ferry tickets only through the official Statue City Cruises ticket office or website. Be cautious of street vendors near the park selling “Statue of Liberty tickets,” sightseeing packages, bus transportation, or skip-the-line offers. Many charge significantly higher prices or sell tours that don’t include the official ferry experience visitors expect.
Best Photo Spots
The waterfront promenade offers excellent views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and New York Harbor. Castle Clinton, The Sphere memorial, and the gardens surrounding the SeaGlass Carousel also provide outstanding photo opportunities throughout the year.
Visitor Tip
If you’re visiting the Statue of Liberty, arrive early for your ferry reservation and allow extra time for airport-style security screening before boarding. If you’re simply exploring Lower Manhattan, visit later in the day when the ferry lines are shorter and the waterfront is quieter, making it easier to enjoy the park’s scenery.
Good to Know
- Admission to The Battery is free.
- Ferry tickets are required for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
- Restrooms are available throughout the park.
- Food vendors and nearby restaurants are within easy walking distance.
- The park is mostly flat and wheelchair accessible.
- Airport-style security screening is required before boarding the Statue City Cruises ferry.
- Numerous benches throughout the park provide excellent places to relax and enjoy harbor views.
Hours
The Battery is generally open daily. Individual attractions, including Castle Clinton National Monument, the SeaGlass Carousel, and Statue City Cruises, operate on their own schedules.
Pricing
Admission to The Battery is free. Ferry service to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, as well as rides on the SeaGlass Carousel, require separate tickets.
Pair Your Visit
The Battery pairs perfectly with a day exploring Lower Manhattan. Begin with a morning ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, then return to explore Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory, and the Oculus. Finish your day with dinner in the Financial District or along the South Street Seaport waterfront for a memorable New York evening.
Looking for More Parks?
If you enjoy New York City’s green spaces, continue exploring Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, The High Line, Bryant Park, The Battery, Little Island, or Governors Island. Each park offers a completely different experience, from sprawling landscapes and elevated gardens to waterfront promenades and lively public squares.
Nearby Things to Do
The Battery sits at the southern tip of Manhattan and is within easy walking distance of Statue of Liberty Ferry, Wall Street, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory, The Oculus, and the Brooklyn Bridge. As your day continues, you’ll also find the Financial District, South Street Seaport, and numerous waterfront restaurants just a short walk away, making The Battery one of the best starting points for exploring Lower Manhattan.