Famous for standing on the site where George Washington took his presidential oath, this building is now a museum and memorial devoted to the birth of the United States government. It is run by the National Park Service.
Best and worst times to go to the Federal Hall National Memorial
The area surrounding Federal Hall can be crowded and crazy when traders are entering or leaving the nearby Stock Exchange, so it's best to avoid entering or leaving the building at 9:30 a.m. or 4 p.m.
Must see/do at the Federal Hall National Memorial
Don't leave Federal Hall without a glimpse of the George Washington Inaugural Bible, which is on display in the Inaugural Gallery on the first floor. And note that although the tours provided by the National Park Rangers may take longer than the self-guided tour, they are well worth your time.
Admission to the Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; it is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday of November) and Christmas Day (December 25). Admission is free.
Parking and Public Transportation to the Federal Hall National Memorial
Note that because of security concerns, no cars are allowed on the section of Wall Street immediately outside of Federal Hall. In addition, street parking in lower Manhattan is extremely limited and parking garages in the area are expensive. Therefore, public transit is the best option when you are visiting Federal Hall. By subway, take the 2 or 3 to Wall & Williams Streets; the 4 or 5 to Wall Street & Broadway; the J or Z to Broad Street; the 1 to Rector Street; the R to Rector Street; or the A or C to Fulton Street. Or take the M5 bus.
Insider tip for visitors to the Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall has long been a focal point for free speech and new ideas, and the National Park Service encourages citizens to exercise their First Amendment rights. As a result, you will often see protests and demonstrations on the front steps.
Other places to visit near the Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall is located on Wall Street in New York City's financial district, just steps away from the Museum of American Finance and the New York Stock Exchange. A short walk will take you to the 9/11 Memorial and the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Author's Bio: Victoria Franzese is a proud New Yorker who owned, operated, and wrote for a successful online travel guide for 15 years. Now, thankfully, all of her travel is purely for fun. See where she's going next at @VOFranzese.
