Battery Weed Staten Island
Explore Battery Weed, a historic gun battery at Fort Wadsworth, offering a glimpse into New York Harbor's defense history and scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tour access
Battery Weed Staten Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tour access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Battery Weed, a historic gun battery at Fort Wadsworth, offering a glimpse into New York Harbor's defense history and scenic views.
"A hidden gem full of history and heart, perfect for families and history buffs alike!"
🎯 Check Tour Schedules
Interior access is often by guided tour only. Verify times on the NPS website before your visit!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds and potentially uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Battery Weed Interior
Fort Wadsworth
Explore the massive, historic gun battery, a key defense for New York Harbor. Guided tours reveal its secrets.
Fort Wadsworth Grounds
Fort Wadsworth
Wander through a historic military post with stunning harbor views and abundant nature. Keep an eye out for wildlife.
Junior Ranger Program
Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center
Engage kids with an educational program that earns them a badge and certificate. A hit with younger visitors!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Battery Weed
Navigating Fort Wadsworth
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
First time in NYC. What NOT to do!
🎯 Check Tour Schedules
Interior access is often by guided tour only. Verify times on the NPS website before your visit!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds and potentially uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Husband and I are going to NYC next month. Any tips, hacks, food, shops, etc??
The Statue of Liberty scammers are telling people they need tickets to enter the Battery
🦝 Watch for Raccoons
Be cautious of raccoon droppings inside the fort's lower levels and staircases. :seenoevil:
📸 Capture the Views
The harbor vistas from Fort Wadsworth are spectacular. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tour Schedules
Interior access is often by guided tour only. Verify times on the NPS website before your visit!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds and potentially uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
🦝 Watch for Raccoons
Be cautious of raccoon droppings inside the fort's lower levels and staircases. :seenoevil:
📸 Capture the Views
The harbor vistas from Fort Wadsworth are spectacular. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
👮 Police Patrols
The fort is patrolled by police. Visitors may be asked to leave after 9 PM. :police_car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Battery Weed and Fort Wadsworth as a hidden gem offering a rich blend of history and natural beauty. Families particularly enjoy the engaging Junior Ranger program and the chance to spot wildlife. While the historical significance is a major draw, some visitors note that interior access can be limited and the museum may be closed unexpectedly, with occasional concerns about cleanliness inside the battery.
"🌟🌟🌟🌟
A Hidden Gem Full of History and Heart!
We visited Fort Wadsworth as a family — with our teenager and younger daughter — and had a truly wonderful experience. The park rangers greeted us warmly and gave us a personal tour filled with fascinating stories about the fort, the cannons, and the natural surroundings.
Our daughter completed the Junior Ranger program, answered questions, colored a picture to hang with others, and proudly received her badge and certificate. She was so excited! We’ll never forget the swallow nests with baby birds and the deer that quietly crossed our path.
The whole place felt peaceful and inspiring — a perfect mix of nature and history. Huge thanks to the rangers and staff for making our visit so special.
We’ll definitely come back and bring friends next time! 💚"
Natali Zorkova
"It’s a great place to take the kids or grandkids educational lots of great nature scenes just don’t go after 9 PM because you will get told to leave by the police. They have patrolling the fort."
George Caldero
"Battery Weed is one of the largest structures at Fort Wadsworth and what most people come to see. It is named for Brigadier General Stephen Weed who was killed at Gettysburg in 1863. Originally named Fort Richmond, this gun battery was one of a pair built at the narrows to protect New York Harbor. By 1835 Fort Richmond had deteriorated and was rebuilt in 1847 to the structure we see today. The battery housed four tiers of guns totaling 116 facing the water with an additional 24 flank howitzers. Today the battery is only open for guided tours, so make sure to reach out to the parks service before you plan a trip there to make sure you'll be able to go on a tour."
cdk007
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Battery Weed is located within Fort Wadsworth. You can drive and park within the fort grounds. Public transportation options include taking the Staten Island Ferry to St. George and then a bus (e.g., the S51) towards Fort Wadsworth. Check MTA schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.
Yes, there is parking available within the Fort Wadsworth grounds. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving earlier is recommended.
Yes, biking is a great way to explore Staten Island and Fort Wadsworth. There are bike paths, and you can bring your bike onto the Staten Island Ferry. Be prepared for some inclines within the fort.
The most scenic and cost-effective way is to take the Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan. From the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island, you can take a bus or a taxi/rideshare to Fort Wadsworth.
While not directly at Battery Weed, be aware of potential scammers near tourist areas like the Statue of Liberty, who might try to sell fake tickets or tours. Stick to official channels for any bookings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Battery Weed is part of Fort Wadsworth, which is a National Park Service site. Entry to the grounds is generally free. However, access to the interior of Battery Weed is often limited to guided tours, which may require advance booking or a fee. Check the official NPS website for current access policies and tour availability.
The grounds of Fort Wadsworth are typically open from dawn to dusk. However, the interior of Battery Weed and any associated museums may have specific operating hours, and access is often restricted to scheduled guided tours. It's crucial to check the National Park Service's official schedule for the most accurate information.
Visiting the grounds of Fort Wadsworth is free. If you wish to take a guided tour of the Battery Weed interior, there might be a fee or it could be included with a park pass. Always confirm pricing on the NPS website.
While you can explore the exterior grounds of Battery Weed and Fort Wadsworth freely, access to the interior is typically restricted to guided tours. These tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and structure.
The grounds of Fort Wadsworth are generally accessible year-round. However, the availability of interior tours for Battery Weed is seasonal and dependent on staffing and weather. It's best to consult the National Park Service website for specific dates and times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic Battery Weed structure, walk the grounds of Fort Wadsworth, enjoy stunning harbor views, and participate in ranger-led programs. Families can engage with the Junior Ranger program.
Yes, guided tours are often available for the interior of Battery Weed. These tours provide in-depth historical context and are highly recommended. Check the National Park Service website for schedules and booking information.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy exploring the historic fort, and the Junior Ranger program offers an engaging educational experience for children. The natural surroundings also provide opportunities for spotting wildlife.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be exploring historic grounds. Dress in layers, as weather can change, and bring sun protection. If visiting the interior, be mindful of potentially uneven surfaces and historical conditions. :athletic_shoe:
Restroom facilities are available within Fort Wadsworth. It's advisable to check the NPS website for specific locations and operating hours of facilities during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the imposing architecture of Battery Weed from various angles, especially during golden hour. The surrounding harbor views and historic structures of Fort Wadsworth also offer excellent photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Photography is generally allowed inside Battery Weed during guided tours, but always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors. Some areas might have restrictions, so it's best to ask your guide. :iphone:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of Battery Weed and the expansive harbor views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on distant landmarks. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions inside the fort. :camerawithflash:
Yes, drone usage is typically restricted within National Park Service sites, including Fort Wadsworth, to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the NPS regulations before flying a drone. :noentrysign:
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers beautiful light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the historic textures of Battery Weed and Fort Wadsworth. :sunriseovermountains:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring, as there's a lot of walking. Check the NPS website for guided tour schedules, as these offer the best way to learn about the fort's history. Be mindful of potential hazards like uneven surfaces and raccoon droppings inside Battery Weed's interior spaces.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Urban Explorers
Urban explorers will appreciate the atmospheric remnants of its military past. While some areas might appear 'abandoned' or show signs of wear, this adds to the authentic historical feel. Be aware that interior access can be limited and sometimes the museum is closed, so checking the NPS schedule is crucial. The opportunity to see Rodman-style columbiads up close is a significant draw for enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Battery Weed
The battery was designed to house an impressive arsenal, featuring four tiers of guns facing the water, totaling 116 cannons. Additionally, 24 flank howitzers were positioned to defend the sides. The sheer scale of the battery highlights the importance of harbor defense during its operational period. Today, visitors can learn about its military significance through guided tours, which offer a glimpse into the lives of soldiers and the strategic role of this fortification.
While the museum within the fort can sometimes be closed, and visitors have noted the presence of raccoon feces inside, the historical significance and architectural grandeur of Battery Weed remain undeniable. The Rodman-style columbiads, though sometimes lacking gun carriages, are a striking sight.
Exploring Fort Wadsworth's Natural Beauty
The park's location along the water makes it an ideal spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. The open spaces and wooded areas provide habitats for various bird species. The gentle breezes coming off the water make it a pleasant place to stroll, picnic, or simply relax and take in the scenery. It's a perfect blend of history and nature, offering a unique experience for all visitors.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you explore the expansive grounds. While the historical structures are the main draw, the natural elements contribute significantly to the overall charm and appeal of Fort Wadsworth. It's a place where history and nature coexist harmoniously, offering a refreshing contrast to the urban bustle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit