Step into Castle Williams, a 19th-century fortress standing proudly on Governors Island. With its striking circular stone walls and hidden military secrets, this historic gem offers more than just views—it’s a journey through time. Climb the tower for panoramic vistas of the East River, where every footstep echoes with history. A must-visit spot for urban explorers and history lovers alike!




















Everything you need to know about Castle Williams
Stay at The St. Regis New York, a luxury hotel just minutes from Castle Williams and offering panoramic views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. The rooms feature elegant design, 24-hour concierge service, and access to a world-class spa and Michelin-starred dining. A short walk or ride takes you to Governors Island, where you can explore the historic Castle Williams fortifications, enjoy scenic green spaces, and experience the island’s unique blend of military history and urban retreat. Perfect for travelers seeking both heritage and sophistication.
Take the NYC Ferry from Pier 11/Wall Street or the MTA Bus BxM10 to Governors Island, which takes about 30 minutes. From the dock, it's a 5-minute walk to Castle Williams. If driving, use the West 42nd Street entrance—parking is limited, so reserve in advance. The site offers free guided tours daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, led by expert historians who share insights into its 19th-century coastal defense systems and U.S. military heritage. A must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring New York’s maritime past.
Explore guided historical tours at Castle Williams, where expert docents reveal its role as a 19th-century coastal fortress built in 1807. The site features an on-site military artifact exhibition showcasing period cannons, uniforms, and battle gear. During summer, enjoy living history reenactments that simulate 1800s soldier drills and defensive maneuvers. The island also hosts an outdoor theater presenting original historical dramas, immersing visitors in New York’s military past. These engaging, educational experiences make it ideal for families and history buffs alike.
Stay at The Brooklyn Hotel, just a 15-minute walk from Castle Williams, offering modern luxury with river views and historic charm. Its rooftop bar, "The Rooftop," provides panoramic views of the castle at night and hosts themed tours on fortification history and American military evolution. Complimentary shuttles connect guests to Battery Park and Statue of Liberty, making it ideal for exploring the area’s rich heritage.
Take the MTA Bus 42 or PATH train to Financial District Station, then transfer to the free electric shuttle to Battery Park, a 30-minute journey. Alternatively, use Uber or Lyft for a direct 25-minute ride to Castle Williams. Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy guided tours inside the fortress. The site features ADA-compliant pathways and multilingual signage, ideal for families and seniors.
Don’t miss the historical guided tour through 19th-century fortifications led by expert interpreters. Experience the cannon firing simulation in the afternoon, where you can operate replica artillery and feel the power of military ceremonies. Stroll along the Battery Park waterfront promenade at dusk to view the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty’s reflection. Seasonal events include outdoor art exhibitions, pop-up markets, and summer stargazing concerts blending history with contemporary culture.
See what other travelers say about Castle Williams

We've stayed here for over two weeks and can confidently say this hotel is an excellent choice for anyone visiting New York City. The location in the East Village is incredibly convenient—right next to subway lines and surrounded by great restaurants, shops, and local vibes. Even though the room is on the smaller side (which is typical for Manhattan), it was clean, well-designed, and made the most of every inch. The front desk staff were friendly, helpful, and always greeted us with a smile—great hospitality that made a big difference. What really stands out is the variety of dining options: a rooftop bar perfect for evening drinks, and a charming French-inspired dinner restaurant just steps away. The amenities are thoughtfully provided, and the overall atmosphere feels modern yet welcoming. We were so happy with our stay that we’d definitely book again if we return to NYC. For value, convenience, and a cool neighborhood feel, this hotel earns a full 10/10.

Stayed four nights at Sixty LES in an ADA-accessible King room. The hotel is spotless and incredibly convenient—just a short walk from public transit, with countless restaurants and landmarks nearby, including the iconic Katz’s Deli. The room itself was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with a great bed and a well-designed shower area. In-room amenities included a safe, ironing board with iron, coffee maker, and mini-fridge—everything you’d want for a smooth stay. The front desk staff were exceptionally helpful, professional, and courteous throughout our visit. The only minor downside is that the room can feel quite dim at night, and noise from the bar on the 7th floor can be quite loud until late—sometimes as late as 3 AM. If you’re sensitive to noise, consider requesting a quieter room or one further from the bar. Overall, the location, comfort, and service make this a standout choice. Highly recommend for travelers seeking a stylish, well-located base in Manhattan’s Lower East Side.

This is my fifth time staying at this hotel, and I still can't get over how great it is—hands down one of the best options in downtown Manhattan. Right across from the World Trade Center, it’s just a short walk to Wall Street, the NYSE, and even the famous Charging Bull. The room was recently renovated with a sleek, modern design that feels fresh and stylish, and all the amenities are top-notch. I especially love the lobby café—contemporary, cozy, and perfect for grabbing a coffee while people-watching. The building sits right above one of New York’s most convenient transit hubs, with subway and light rail lines connecting every corner of the city. Whether you're here for business or leisure, the location and ease of access make everything so much smoother. It’s no wonder I keep coming back—this place truly delivers on comfort, convenience, and character.

Staying at Wyndham Garden Chinatown in New York was an absolute delight. The hotel is literally steps away from Chinatown, making shopping and dining incredibly convenient—there’s no need to go far for authentic Asian cuisine or local groceries. Public transportation is just a short walk away, with subway lines and bus stops within minutes of the entrance, so getting around the city is super easy. The neighborhood is vibrant and full of Chinese-speaking locals, so you’ll never feel out of place even if you don’t speak English fluently. Plus, it’s only a quick stroll to Little Italy, where you can enjoy delicious pasta and espresso in a charming European setting. This location offers the perfect mix of convenience, culture, and charm—ideal for travelers who want to explore both the heart of NYC and its diverse communities without hassle.

My stay at Hotel on Rivington was nothing short of perfect. The room was spotless and the bed incredibly comfortable—woke up feeling refreshed every morning. What truly stood out was the team’s thoughtful approach to accessibility: they ensured the TV captions were working and used text messaging for communication, making the entire experience seamless for a Deaf guest. Every staff member I interacted with was respectful, supportive, and genuinely eager to help. The neighborhood is vibrant and walkable—packed with great restaurants, cozy cafes, and lively bars. Just a few blocks away from Little Italy, it’s ideal for exploring without needing a car. With its excellent service, prime location, and inclusive atmosphere, this hotel deserves every bit of praise. I’ll be back in a heartbeat.

Staying at Public|Public was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from subway lines and surrounded by great local spots. The architecture and interior design are stunning, with a modern, artistic vibe that really sets the tone. My room was spotless, spacious, and thoughtfully furnished with attention to detail. I especially loved the rooftop area—perfect for unwinding with a drink while taking in the city skyline. The staff were friendly and helpful without being intrusive. It’s rare to find such a stylish yet comfortable stay with such a strong sense of place. Highly recommend this one—it’s more than just a hotel, it’s an experience.

My two-night stay at the Courtyard New York Downtown Manhattan/Financial District was fantastic. The location is unbeatable if you want to be within walking distance of iconic spots like Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial, Battery Park, and the ferry terminal for a quick trip to Statue of Liberty. Everything’s close by—just a short walk or a couple of subway stops away. The hotel itself was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped. Despite being in a busy business district, the area stays quiet at night, making it perfect for a good night’s rest after a full day of exploring. There are also plenty of dining options nearby—from cozy cafés to more formal restaurants—and getting around to Midtown or Brooklyn is super easy via the subway. Overall, it was a short but excellent stay. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone looking to explore southern Manhattan with ease and comfort.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of SoHo, it's just a short walk from the subway station—perfect for getting around Manhattan effortlessly. The free water, tea, and coffee available throughout the day were a nice touch, and the facilities are top-notch: clean, modern, and well-maintained. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the whole experience feel warm and welcoming. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers excellent value and convenience. I’ll definitely be returning.

The location is absolutely fantastic—just a short walk from Brooklyn's vibrant heart, with great access to public transit and everything you'd want nearby. The hotel itself has a modern, stylish vibe with plenty of natural light and thoughtfully designed spaces. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, and the overall experience was top-notch. It’s rare to find such a well-located, comfortable, and beautifully crafted stay at this price point. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to anyone visiting New York.

Staying at Solita Soho Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of New York City’s vibrant SoHo district, with everything from trendy cafes and boutiques to art galleries just a short walk away. The room was clean, stylish, and incredibly comfortable, with a perfect balance of modern design and cozy touches. The air conditioning worked flawlessly, and the bed was just right—perfect for a restful night’s sleep. What stood out most was the excellent value; you get premium quality without the premium price. If you're looking for a convenient, well-designed stay in NYC, this hotel is a top choice.

Staying at The Historic Blue Moon Hotel in NYC was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just steps away from major attractions and surrounded by great restaurants and shops. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, helpful service, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Our room was clean, cozy, and beautifully appointed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The overall experience exceeded expectations, and I’d absolutely stay here again without hesitation. A standout choice in a vibrant city.

This hotel is absolutely fantastic—brand new, spotlessly clean, and perfectly located just steps from the subway. It’s an ideal base for exploring Wall Street and Battery Park, with easy access to the Statue of Liberty. The staff at reception were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in a breeze. Every detail feels fresh and well thought out, from the modern rooms to the thoughtful amenities. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting NYC—it’s a real gem in terms of comfort, convenience, and value.
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