For over 150 years, Hart Island has quietly served as the final resting place for New York City's unclaimed and indigent. How did this site evolve from a Civil War prison camp to the largest public cemetery in the country? And what lies beyond the island’s somber reputation as a Potter’s Field? Don't miss your chance to uncover the hidden stories of this fascinating island firsthand.
Join New York Adventure Club for a rare exploration of Hart Island, New York City’s largest public cemetery, which has also served as a military training ground, quarantine station, psychiatric hospital, reform school, missile base, and more since its purchase by the city in 1868. On this South Island route, we'll visit historic sites along the island's southern side.
Led by an Urban Park Ranger, this rare two-hour trip around one of New York's most mysterious islands will include:
- An exploration of historic landmarks and remnants on the island's southern side, including the Chapel, site of Phoenix House and Solomon Riley's Amusement Park, the 1980s AIDS burials, and Gazebo
- A discussion of Hart Island’s role in military history, public health crises, and social reform, including its use during multiple pandemics and as a home for various institutions
- An overview of New York City's burial practices and critical role Hart Island still plays in serving the city’s indigent population
- Rare stories of its lesser-known uses, including an amusement park (closed before grand opening), reformatory, and rehabilitation center
- Insights into current efforts to document and preserve the history of Hart Island, ensuring its legacy is not forgotten
- Ferry transportation to and from the island with sweeping views of the coastline
As an exclusive bonus, all registered guests will get special access to the City Island Nautical Museum after the tour, which is located just steps away from the ferry terminal. Come inside and check out their Hart Island exhibition, featuring all the activities, buildings, history that aren't visible on the island itself.
Get ready to explore a part of New York City that few have ever set foot on!
Important Notes
*All visitor and guest IDs must match the names submitted upon advance registration in order to board the ferry (walk-up entry is not allowed).
**All registrants are required to sign the Hart Island Visitor Book, and sign and submit a liability waiver before boarding the ferry.
***Please dress appropriately with properly fitting shoes as [1] the fully outdoor tour route includes uneven terrain, tripping hazards, and soft / muddy spots (especially after raining), [2] getting on/off the ferry requires stepping over a small ledge, and [3] the island is generally colder than the mainland.
****Please note that there are no indoor facilities, restrooms, or drinking fountains on Hart Island. There are only portable restrooms on the island.
*****Non-professional photos and videos are permitted on Hart Island, but please be respectful of the fact that the area is an active cemetery.
******If you or your guest has a wheelchair or other mobility device, please contact the Urban Park Rangers at (718) 319-7258.
*******In the event of severe weather conditions, the Ferry Captain may decide it is unwise to conduct a ferry trip. If the trip is canceled, an email and text message will be sent to all guests ASAP and tickets refunded.
Itinerary
- Check-In: 9:30am
- Depart: 10:00am
- Tour: 10:15am-12:30pm
- Return: 12:45pm
*Exact timing may vary
Transportation
By Subway: Take the 6 subway to the final stop (Pelham Bay Park), and transfer to the BX29 bus towards City Island outside the station (here is an exact location of the bus stop). Disembark the bus at the City Island Av/Fordham St stop — the ferry terminal is located a short walk away at the end of Fordham Street.
By Car: While parking is available along the streets leading up to the ferry terminal, please allow extra time to find a spot as parking is limited.
Testimonials
"It satisfied my curiosity about Hart Island" -Audrey
"Discovered something new for me!" -David
"Highly motivated park rangers providing a trove of valuable information" -Klaus-Peter
"[I liked] everything!" -Gigi
"Unique and unusual historic area that is hard to access on one’s own" -Christopher
Disclaimer
Event takes place rain or shine.
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Ticket sales end five days before the tour. No refunds provided within five days of the tour.
Photo Credit: Top Right - City Island Historical Society, Bottom Right - Harvard Art Museums/Fogg Museum, Transfer from the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts, Social Museum Collection
Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours
