Battery Park Manhattan
Dutch settlers landed in present-day Manhattan in 1624. They called the area New Amsterdam and set up a battery of canons to defend it. If you take a visit to the southernmost tip of Manhattan, you can still spot that place today, though it now goes by the name Battery Park.
Battery Park, also known as The Battery, contains an extensive collection of historical artifacts. Visitors to the area will be able to learn and see the evolution of the park over the centuries. Here are some worthwhile attractions and events happening at Battery Park.
Battery Park Attractions
In the early 1800s, the new American government worried that Great Britain would come back and try to colonize the new country. This concern led to the creation of Castle Clinton in 1812. The fort, which still stands in Battery Park, protected the most accessible port of entry into the city.
While Castle Clinton is relatively small, what it lacks in stature, it makes up for in intrigue. The exhibition room includes documents, maps, and photos that depict the growth and changes to the fort and the park. The castle is open to the public seven days a week from 7:45 am to 5 pm, and admission is free.
Battery Park is also home to the Giovanni da Verrazano Monument. Erected in 1909, the statue celebrates the first European to reach New York Bay. Fun Fact: if you look closely, you can see that the inscription misspells Verrazano's last name; it added an extra "z."
Battery Park Events
Enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of Battery Park while taking in a yoga class. There are free Tejal Yoga classes on the Woodland Lawn every Sunday at 11:30 am and Wednesday at 6:30 pm. Sessions run from June 2 to September 29.
While Battery Park is one of the most famous parks in Manhattan, it has fallen on tough times in the past. The park has been restored thanks to volunteers who help garden, weed, mulch, compost, and maintain the grounds. The Battery even has volunteer positions open for tour guides and greeters.
You can also grab your sleeping bags and spend a night under the stars at Battery Park. Visitors will get to enjoy an escape to nature as they enjoy s’mores, campfire songs, and a lightning bug show. The campouts take place on Saturday, July 20 and August 17, starting at 6 pm.
Plan Your Visit
Spaced out over 23 acres, The Battery is one of the largest public open areas in downtown Manhattan. Contained within the grounds is a unique blend of historical and modern artifacts and displays. This public park has more than three million visitors per year, and the National Park Services cites Castle Clinton as the most visited site in the country.
Experience the genesis for what New York would come to be. This tiny park serves as ground zero for the city’s birth and evolution into a modern metropolis. Learn more about The Battery by visiting their website today.
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