
Hart Island New York
NYC's historic public cemetery, a serene island resting place for over a million New Yorkers, offering a unique historical and reflective experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peaceful

Hart Island New York
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
NYC's historic public cemetery, a serene island resting place for over a million New Yorkers, offering a unique historical and reflective experience.
"The island is beautiful and while much work is underway - the potential for the place to be beautiful, calm and respectful is clear."

📅 Pre-Register for Visits
All visits to Hart Island require pre-registration. Contact the Department of Corrections well in advance to secure your spot.
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress respectfully for a cemetery. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the island. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Island's Serene Landscape
Throughout Hart Island
A surprisingly beautiful and peaceful island offering a unique perspective on NYC's history and green spaces.
Memorial Sites
Various locations on the island
Discover poignant memorials and the resting places of over a million New Yorkers, a testament to the city's history.
The Island's Transformation
Various locations on the island
Witness ongoing efforts to preserve and potentially transform Hart Island into a public park, blending history with nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Hart Island
Understanding Hart Island's Purpose
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Pre-Register for Visits
All visits to Hart Island require pre-registration. Contact the Department of Corrections well in advance to secure your spot.
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress respectfully for a cemetery. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the island. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities on the island. Pack essentials like water and snacks for your visit. :water_wave:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos. Focus on the landscape and memorials, and always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Pre-Register for Visits
All visits to Hart Island require pre-registration. Contact the Department of Corrections well in advance to secure your spot.
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress respectfully for a cemetery. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the island. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities on the island. Pack essentials like water and snacks for your visit. :water_wave:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos. Focus on the landscape and memorials, and always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. :camerawithflash:
📚 Learn the History
Familiarize yourself with Hart Island's unique history before your visit to enhance your understanding and appreciation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe Hart Island as a beautiful, peaceful, and historically significant place, with many praising the kindness and respect shown by the island's staff. While its primary function as a public cemetery is somber, the island offers a unique and reassuring experience for those visiting loved ones or seeking a quiet, reflective space.
"Never been there, but it’s history sounds like a Rob Zombie movie just waiting to happen. 😂"
Oddmodd
"One message to say we had a fantastic trip to Hart Island on Saturday. We went to see the resting place of my grandfather who was buried there in 1962. The island is beautiful and while much work is underway - the potential for the place to be beautiful, calm and respectful of its many pasts is clear and highly desirable.
Our trip was very reassuring and consoling. The parks officer and gardener could not have been nicer to us. They accompanied us, explained a lot of the history, were very respectful, had a sense of humour and humanity and made us feel most welcome.
They were super.
I feel reassured my grandfather is in good hands now. My father (87), his son will be relieved and is very, very grateful.
Thank you all."
Maria Power
"Hart island is also where they bury bodies that are not identified or from hospitals sometimes they didnt even tell you where they placed your loved ones... the owner of the island is the corrections department the parks department want to be owners of this island this way they can make it public instead of private. People have to get special permission just to see loved ones buried on this island..."
Andrea Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Hart Island is primarily by ferry, which departs from a designated pier in the Bronx. Visitors must have pre-registered for a visit. The ferry schedule is often coordinated with the Department of Corrections.
While the ferry is the main access point, you can reach the ferry departure point in the Bronx via public transportation, such as buses and subways. Plan your route in advance. :subway:
No, private vehicles are not permitted on Hart Island. Access is strictly controlled and managed by the Department of Corrections, with ferry transport being the standard method. :ferry:
Ferry times are typically scheduled based on pre-approved visitor groups and are not publicly advertised like a regular ferry service. You will be informed of the specific departure times upon successful registration.
Parking availability near the ferry departure point in the Bronx can be limited. It's advisable to check local parking options or consider using public transport to reach the ferry terminal. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need to purchase tickets in the traditional sense, but pre-registration is mandatory for all visitors. This process ensures controlled access to the island.
Registration is handled by the NYC Department of Corrections. You'll need to contact them directly to inquire about the process and availability for visits.
Visiting hours are not fixed like a typical tourist attraction. They are determined by the Department of Corrections based on scheduled visits and operational needs. Your registration confirmation will include specific timings.
There is no entrance fee to visit Hart Island. The island serves as a public cemetery, and access is managed for respectful visitation. :moneywithwings:
No, unscheduled visits are not permitted. Pre-registration is a strict requirement for all individuals wishing to visit Hart Island.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the island's grounds, visit designated memorial areas, and learn about its history. It's a place for quiet reflection and understanding.
While formal guided tours might not always be available, Parks officers or staff may provide information and context during your visit, sharing historical insights.
Facilities are very limited. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks. Restroom facilities may be available but are basic. :toilet:
Photography is generally permitted, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of any ongoing burials or ceremonies. :camerawithflash:
Hart Island can be a somber experience. While children can visit, parents should consider their child's temperament and prepare them for the nature of the site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining establishments on Hart Island. Visitors must bring their own food and beverages. :sandwich:
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas, but it's important to be respectful of the cemetery grounds. Pack out everything you pack in. :picnic_table:
The area around the ferry departure point in the Bronx may have local eateries. It's best to research dining options in that specific neighborhood before heading to the ferry. :burger:
📸 📸 Photography
The island offers scenic views of the Long Island Sound and the Manhattan skyline. Focus on the natural beauty, memorials, and the historical architecture. :camerawithflash:
While generally allowed, be mindful of the solemnity of the site. Avoid photographing any ongoing burials or ceremonies. Respect the privacy of others.
Expect to capture serene landscapes, poignant memorials, and the unique atmosphere of a historic public cemetery. It's a place for reflective photography. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is typically prohibited in sensitive areas like cemeteries and government-managed sites. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. :noentrysign:
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, creating a softer, more atmospheric feel. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful. :sunrise:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🤔 History Buffs & Researchers
🚶♀️ Solitude Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Hart Island
The island's history is marked by mass burials, often in trenches, a practice that underscores the sheer volume of lives it has encompassed. While often overlooked, Hart Island represents a crucial, albeit somber, part of New York City's infrastructure and its commitment to its populace. Recent discussions and efforts aim to transform parts of the island into a public park, balancing its historical role with potential future recreational use.
Understanding Hart Island's purpose is key to appreciating its value. It's not a typical tourist destination but a functioning cemetery that offers a unique glimpse into the city's past and its ongoing social services. The island's serene, albeit poignant, landscape provides a space for reflection and remembrance.
Visiting Hart Island: Practicalities and Etiquette
Upon arrival, visitors are typically transported to the island via ferry. The experience is often described as peaceful and beautiful, with staff being noted for their kindness and helpfulness. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress respectfully, acknowledging the solemn nature of the site. Bringing water and snacks is recommended, as facilities on the island are minimal.
When exploring Hart Island, photography is generally permitted, but with an emphasis on respect. Focus on the landscapes and memorials, and avoid intrusive shots of any ongoing activities. The island's atmosphere is one of quiet contemplation, and visitors are expected to maintain this decorum throughout their stay.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit