Discover New York City During America's 250th

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through New York City’s rich history and vibrant culture through an exploration of its national parks as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Whether you’re in town for a big event or just passing through, there are national parks waiting for you right in the neighborhood.

1. Fort Washington Park

Stretching along the Hudson River in Upper Manhattan, this scenic park offers waterfront views, trails, and access to Revolutionary War history. It’s a peaceful escape that connects visitors to both nature and the city’s past.

  • 1 mile to General Grant National Memorial
  • 4 miles to Central Park
  • 10 miles to Empire State Building
  • 11 miles to Penn Station
  • 13 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
2. General Grant National Memorial

Visit the final resting place of President Ulysses S. Grant, the largest mausoleum in North America. This impressive site offers a powerful connection to Civil War history and presidential legacy.

  • 1 mile to Fort Washington Park
  • 3 miles to Central Park
  • 8 miles to Empire State Building
  • 9 miles to Penn Station
  • 11 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
3. American Museum of Natural History

From dinosaur fossils to space exploration, this world-renowned museum offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Located along Central Park, it’s a must-see stop for first-time visitors.

  • 3 miles to General Grant National Memorial
  • 5 miles to Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
  • 7 miles to African Burial Ground National Monument
  • 7 miles to Federal Hall National Memorial
  • 8 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
4. Central Park

An iconic green oasis in Manhattan, Central Park offers scenic paths, open lawns, and countless places to explore. It’s the perfect place to slow down while still being in the heart of the city.

  • 4 miles to General Grant National Memorial
  • 5 miles to Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
  • 7 miles to African Burial Ground National Monument
  • 7 miles to Federal Hall National Memorial
  • 8 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
5. Theater District

Home to Broadway, the Theater District delivers world-class performances and nonstop energy. It’s one of the most exciting places to experience New York City after dark.

  • 5 miles to Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
  • 6 miles to African Burial Ground National Monument
  • 6 miles to Federal Hall National Memorial
  • 7 miles to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 8 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
6. Penn Station

One of the busiest transportation hubs in the country, Penn Station serves as a major gateway to Manhattan. It’s often the starting point for visitors exploring the city.

  • 1 mile to Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
  • 4 miles to African Burial Ground National Monument
  • 4 miles to Federal Hall National Memorial
  • 5 miles to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 6 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
7. Empire State Building

Take in sweeping views from one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world. This classic New York experience offers a new perspective on the city skyline.

  • 1 mile to Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
  • 4 miles to African Burial Ground National Monument
  • 4 miles to Federal Hall National Memorial
  • 5 miles to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 6 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
8. Grab a New York Slice

No trip to New York is complete without grabbing a classic slice of pizza. Quick, affordable, and iconic, it’s one of the simplest ways to experience the city like a local. Check out the famous Roberta’s right when you get off at Penn Station. 

  • 1 mile to Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
  • 4 miles to African Burial Ground National Monument
  • 4 miles to Federal Hall National Memorial
  • 5 miles to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 6 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
9. Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site

Visit the reconstructed childhood home of President Theodore Roosevelt and learn about his early life. This site highlights the foundations of one of America’s most influential leaders.

  • 1 mile to Empire State Building
  • 1 mile to Penn Station
  • 2 miles to Theater District
  • 3 miles to Central Park
  • 5 miles to American Museum of Natural History
10. Stonewall National Monument

Stand at the site of the Stonewall Uprising, a defining moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. This landmark represents the ongoing fight for equality and inclusion.

  • 1 mile to Empire State Building
  • 1 mile to Theater District
  • 2 miles to Penn Station
  • 3 miles to Central Park
  • 5 miles to American Museum of Natural History
11. African Burial Ground National Monument

Discover a powerful site honoring the lives of free and enslaved Africans in colonial New York. It offers an important and often overlooked perspective on the city’s early history.

  • 2 miles to Empire State Building
  • 4 miles to Central Park
  • 4 miles to Penn Station
  • 4 miles to Theater District
  • 6 miles to American Museum of Natural History
12. Federal Hall National Memorial

Stand where George Washington took the oath of office as the first President of the United States. This historic site sits at the heart of Lower Manhattan’s financial district.

  • 0.5 miles to Fraunces Tavern Museum
  • 4 miles to Empire State Building
  • 4 miles to Penn Station
  • 5 miles to Theater District
  • 6 miles to Central Park
13. Castle Clinton National Monument

Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, this historic fort once served as an immigration station and defense structure. Today, it’s the gateway to visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

  • 1 mile to Fraunces Tavern Museum
  • 5 miles to Empire State Building
  • 5 miles to Penn Station
  • 6 miles to Theater District
  • 7 miles to Central Park
14. Fraunces Tavern® Museum

Step into one of New York’s oldest buildings, where George Washington bid farewell to his officers. Today, it blends Revolutionary history with a lively dining and museum experience.

  • 0.5 miles to Federal Hall National Memorial
  • 1 mile to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 2 miles to African Burial Ground National Monument
  • 3 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
  • 6 miles to Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
15. Ellis Island

Walk through the historic gateway where millions of immigrants entered the United States. Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument, this site tells the story of America’s diverse beginnings.

  • 1 mile to Statue of Liberty National Monument
  • 2 miles to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 3 miles to Fraunces Tavern Museum
  • 6 miles to Empire State Building
  • 8 miles to Central Park
16. Statue of Liberty National Monument

One of the most iconic symbols of freedom in the world, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see experience. Make sure to check out ferry times and get your tickets in advance. 

  • 1 mile to Ellis Island
  • 2 miles to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 3 miles to Fraunces Tavern Museum
  • 6 miles to Empire State Building
  • 8 miles to Central Park
16. Governors Island National Monument

Take a short ferry ride to Governors Island for historic forts, open green space, and incredible skyline views. It’s a unique way to experience New York from a different perspective.

  • 2 miles to Statue of Liberty National Monument
  • 2 miles to Ellis Island
  • 2 miles to Castle Clinton National Monument
  • 3 miles to Fraunces Tavern Museum
  • 7 miles to Empire State Building

America's 250th & National Park Events

Times Square Ball Drop

July 3, 2026

Join America250 in a historic first, the iconic Times Square Ball will drop outside of New Year’s Eve to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. On July 3 at 11:59 p.m., the Ball will illuminate in a custom America250 design before descending at midnight to welcome Independence Day.

Sail4th Tall Ships

July 3rd – 8th

To celebrate America’s 250th birthday, the largest fleet of the world’s most magnificent tall ships and gray hull ships will sail into New York Harbor, pass in Presidential review, and salute the Statue of Liberty.
Check out the link for the full 6-day event lineup.


America's 250th in New york

New York’s Path Through History brings America’s 250th anniversary to life through curated travel experiences across the state. From Revolutionary War sites and historic landmarks to museums and cultural destinations, follow the link for a full list of events.

Battle of Long Island 250th

August 22nd – 23rd

Join Fraunces Tavern® Museum to celebrate 250 years of the Battle of Long Island (Brooklyn) and the Old Stone House. Experience battle reenactments, a rededication ceremony of Maryland monument, and more.

America's 250th & National Park Events

Times Square Ball Drop

July 3, 2026

Join America250 in a historic first, the iconic Times Square Ball will drop outside of New Year’s Eve to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. On July 3 at 11:59 p.m., the Ball will illuminate in a custom America250 design before descending at midnight to welcome Independence Day.

Sail4th Tall Ships

July 3rd – 8th

To celebrate America’s 250th birthday, the largest fleet of the world’s most magnificent tall ships and gray hull ships will sail into New York Harbor, pass in Presidential review, and salute the Statue of Liberty.
Check out the link for the full 6-day event lineup.


America's 250th in New york

New York’s Path Through History brings America’s 250th anniversary to life through curated travel experiences across the state. From Revolutionary War sites and historic landmarks to museums and cultural destinations, follow the link for a full list of events.

Battle of Long Island 250th

August 22nd – 23rd

Join Fraunces Tavern® Museum to celebrate 250 years of the Battle of Long Island (Brooklyn) and the Old Stone House. Experience battle reenactments, a rededication ceremony of Maryland monument, and more.

Get Stamped! With Passport To Your National Parks®

Discover all of the National Park Service units in or near Philadelphia where you can get your Passport book stamped with classic cancellations and America250 stamps.

Visit an America’s National Parks™ Store

Find unique Publications, Souvenirs, and Educational Keepsakes to have an instant memory of your trip. Don’t forget to sign up to our email list to instantly get a coupon for 15% off at our park stores. The best part is 100% of proceeds from every purchase support events and educational experiences at national parks.

Shop America’s National Parks™ Online

Gear up for your trip with exclusive products from ShopANP.org, where your purchase supports the parks. Use the Passport To The American Revolution to track your visits to American Revolution sites and collect official America250™ cancellation stickers. Show up with exclusive America250™ apparel and gear so you’re ready for the celebrations!