Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

“We had this included in our walking tour of Wall Street ticket. I had been here about eleven years ago and remembered it very differently. I felt sure there was a staircase that immigrants had to walk up and were being watched to assess their fitness. There was scaffolding up and areas closed so maybe I'd not pictured it right. It was full of fascinating facts and a fabulous building. Great views from the island, very windy!! Fabulous gift store too.”

“As an immigrant myself, visiting this Island again after almost 30+ years was very educational and emotional for me. It resonanted with me in a very big way as it brought back memories of my childhood and witnessing the struggles of my mother when she emigrated to this incredible nation with her 2 young boys. This place is a must for any one visiting NYC from abroad and even for American's who live in the area, just an unforgettable experience. Located in New York Harbor, it served as the nation's busiest federal immigrant processing station for over 60 years and today offers a deep dive into the history and human stories of American immigration. Early Ownership: Originally called "Kioshk" (Gull Island) by Native Americans, it was later known as "Oyster Island" and "Gibbet Island" (due to its use for pirate executions). It finally took its name from Samuel Ellis, a merchant who owned it in the late 1700s. Federal Station (1892–1954): The federal government opened the first immigration station here on January 1, 1892. Annie Moore, a teenager from Ireland, was the first to be processed. "Island of Hope, Island of Tears": Between 1892 and 1924, more than 12 million immigrants passed through its gates. For most, it was the gateway to opportunity, but for the 2% denied entry for medical or legal reasons, it was a place of heartbreak. World War Usage & Closure: During both World Wars, the island served as a detention center for "enemy aliens" and a base for the Coast Guard and Army. It officially closed its doors in 1954. The Registry Room (Great Hall): Visitors can stand in the cavernous hall where immigrants underwent medical and legal "six-second scrutiny." "Through America’s Gate" Exhibit: This core gallery takes you through the step-by-step processing experience, featuring original artifacts, manifest tags, and even fragments of immigrant graffiti. Family History Center: A popular destination for those looking to trace their roots, this center provides access to over 65 million searchable arrival records and ship manifests. Peopling of America Center: Expanded in 2015, this section looks at immigration before 1892 and after 1954, providing a complete timeline from the 16th century to the modern day.”

“One of the most fascinating and historically significant locations in the US is the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. This museum, which is only a short ferry journey from both New York and New Jersey, masterfully captures and tells the poignant tale of the millions of immigrants who traveled through Ellis Island in quest of a better life in America. You can sense the weight of history all around you as soon as you enter. With its lofty ceilings and reverberating voices, the renovated Great Hall takes guests back to the early 1900s, when eager families waited in line for admission and inspection. With images, personal items, ship manifests, and interactive displays that make the experience both educational and emotive, the exhibitions are remarkably well-organized. The "American Immigrant Wall of Honor," which honors the bravery and aspirations of families who came via Ellis Island, is one of the most striking features. Another highlight is the Family History Center, where guests can use comprehensive immigration records to trace their own genealogy. This is a very intimate and poignant experience. The museum's employees are amiable, informed, and committed to conserving this important period of American history. Visitors from all around the world can take advantage of the multilingual audio tours. The ferry voyage itself is an unforgettable aspect of the trip since it provides breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the cityscape of New York City. All things considered, the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is more than just a museum; it serves as a poignant reminder of America's immigrant heritage. Anyone who appreciates humanity, history, and the unwavering spirit of optimism should go there.”

“First time I’ve ever visited the island! They are remodeling some areas inside, but it’s only going to make it better. I highly recommend the 30 minute movie to start stop by the information desk and let one of the volunteers direct you. Take the time to go upstairs and walk around so that you can view everything from up above. They have samples of what the barracks looked like back in the day as well.”