Originally built to defend New York harbor in the War of 1812, this circular red sandstone fort at the water’s edge in Battery Park never saw military action. But it does have an amazing history. In 1824, the fort was converted into a grand entertainment palace called Castle Garden; eventually a glass roof was added, creating an opera house. Castle Clinton then became an immigration center in 1854, processing more than 8 million new arrivals to America, before it was transformed yet again, this time becoming the New York City Aquarium. Eventually designated as a national monument in 1946, Castle Clinton serves today as the gateway and ticketing office for ferries sailing to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Every summer, the Downtown Alliance and River To River recapture the former glory of New York’s oldest performance venue with a series of FREE waterfront concerts called Music at Castle Clinton. During performances, limited seating is available and tickets are required. They are distributed two per person on a first-come, first-served basis, at 5pm on the day of show. No beach chairs, blankets, or outside food is allowed at Castle Clinton performances.

Click here for a map of this venue

This venue is wheelchair accessible.