Tours & Travel

From the Ellis Island World / Places

Fort Jay

Walk through Fort Jay’s star-shaped defenses on Governors Island when its gates are open. Construction currently directs visitors to the West Sally Port, and the interior closes seasonally.

Fort Jay

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Why go

The moat, drawbridge and ramparts make Fort Jay a clear stop on a Governors Island walk. Enter through the West Sally Port to see how the island was defended, then continue toward Colonels Row or the waterfront. The exterior remains worth seeing when NPS closes the interior for the season.

What to look for

  • Star-shaped ramparts, moat and drawbridge
  • West Sally Port entrance near Colonels Row

Useful to know

  • NPS lists Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; check winter closure and construction alerts before travel.
  • During construction, enter through West Sally Port near Colonels Row; expect stairs and uneven ground.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.

Outdoor visit · 25–40 min

World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.

Opening information

World snapshot; verify with the official source.

America/New_York · Sep 29, 2026 / Oct 29, 2026

Wednesday
10:00–16:00
Thursday
10:00–16:00
Friday
10:00–16:00
Saturday
10:00–16:00
Sunday
10:00–16:00
Official visitor information

Original World content and translations, shown as supplied. Practical information may need updating.

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