Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital Complex

Highlights

Itinerary

1. 1

   Ellis Island

   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 30m•Admission free•See on map

Meeting point

We meet at the information desk inside of the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

The map shows New York. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

Pickup

• Everyone meets at the start point

Know before you go

• 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.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

Cancellation and refunds

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

• Cancelled and fully refunded if the weather makes it unsafe