Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital Complex

In New York, New York

From
£51 pp
1h 30 mins · 5.0 (176)
Book on Viator
Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital Complex
Explore the hauntingly beautiful abandoned hospitals of Ellis Island on a 90-minute Hard Hat Tour, offered exclusively by Save Ellis Island. Discover the island’s rich yet overlooked history, as knowledgeable guides lead you through this once state-of-the-art medical facility that treated over a million immigrants. The tour showcases remarkable art installations and the poignant stories of those who sought a better life. This unique opportunity is perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in America's immigration legacy. - 90-minute guided tour through the historic Ellis Island Hospital Complex - Access to a site closed to the public for over 60 years - Led by experienced guides with deep knowledge of the island's history - Hard hats provided on-site for your safety
Free cancellation

What's included

  • ADMISSION_FEES
  • Guide

What's not included

  • The Ferry ticket is NOT included - This must be purchased through Statue City Cruises.

Itinerary

  1. Step behind the scenes of Ellis Island on the Hard Hat Tour—a unique, 90-minute guided experience through the abandoned hospital complex, not typically open to the public. Led by Save Ellis Island, this tour takes you into 29 unrestored buildings on the island’s south side, including the contagious disease wards, autopsy rooms, laundry facilities, and staff quarters. Walk in the footsteps of doctors, nurses, and immigrants as you explore eerie corridors and operating rooms once used to care for those arriving in search of a better life. Along the way, you'll see "Unframed"—a haunting art installation by French artist JR that features life-sized historic photos set within the decaying spaces. Your participation supports the ongoing preservation of these historic buildings. This tour is ideal for history lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a deeper, more powerful connection to America’s immigrant story. (1h 30min)

Meeting & end point

Meeting point
We meet at the information desk next to the bookstore to the left when you walk in the main entrance of the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.
End point
We meet at the information desk next to the bookstore to the left when you walk in the main entrance of the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

Practical information

Operated by
Save Ellis Island
Max group size
15 travellers
Travellers per booking
1–15
Languages
en
Confirmation
INSTANT

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation available.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Important notes

  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • No children under 10 will be allowed on the tour
  • Ellis Island’s south side buildings are over 100 years old and have not yet been restored or updated to current accessibility standards. No ramps are available and portions of the tour include stairs, uneven walking surfaces, and areas that are difficult to navigate. At this time, it is not accessible for guests using wheelchairs, powered scooters, or other mobility equipment that cannot be accommodated along the route. The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles over a 90-minute period and requires sustained walking and the ability to navigate uneven surfaces and stairs safely. Guests with concerns are encouraged to contact us in advance so we can discuss the tour conditions and help determine whether the experience is appropriate.

Frequently asked questions

This tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Allow a little extra time at either end if you need to transfer between the ship and the excursion meeting point.

The excursion price typically covers transport, a qualified guide, and the activities listed in the description above. Meals, gratuities, personal shopping, and any entrance fees not mentioned in the description are usually paid separately on the day.

Age and fitness guidance for this excursion is not specified in the data we hold. The tour description above is the best guide — if you have any specific concerns, contact your cruise line's excursion desk before departing the ship.