PRIVATE TOUR OFFERING: THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR & WAR OF 1812 IN CENTRAL PARK

Step into a hidden history of Central Park, long before its spectacular landscapes were created. Over eighty years prior to its creation, the terrain above 97th Street was a crucial military ground in the Revolutionary War.  Nearly forty years later, the same ground was fortified to defend against the British in the War of 1812. Led by a passionate historian and licensed NYC guide, you’ll explore this overlooked but vital chapter of American history through immersive storytelling, rare historic maps, vivid images—and the landscape itself. Walk in the footsteps of soldiers, discover dramatic viewpoints, and venture into little-known but stunning areas of Central Park that most visitors never see.

After the devastating loss in Brooklyn, George Washington raced along Kingsbridge Road—part of what is within today’s Central Park—to convene a council of war at the McGowan’s tavern, deliberating the fate of Manhattan. Shortly after, from September 1776 to November 1783, British forces fortified the area against American advances, stationing up to 10,000 soldiers, making this the longest continuous occupation of the Revolutionary War. Washington would traverse the area again in 1783, passing through McGowan’s Pass before his emotional farewell at Fraunces Tavern. The grounds were fortified once again during the War of 1812, but this time by the Americans. You’ll see an original American blockhouse built during the war and learn about the history of the stronghold areas.

On this immersive walking tour, you’ll journey through Central Park’s most spectacular and lesser-known landscapes, which were once the sites of forts, encampments, and pivotal wartime decisions. Experience sweeping vistas, hear captivating tales of courage and strategy, and see vivid images and maps that bring the 18th and early 19th centuries to life.

Discover the rich history that shaped the land long before Central Park became one of the world’s most beloved green spaces, and gain a new appreciation for its role in the Revolutionary War.

Just a Few of the Fascinating Stops on Your Journey:

• A High Bluff Overlooking the Harlem Plains (Blockhouse, War of 1812): Stand atop a commanding bluff, one of the highest in Central Park, where soldiers in the Blockhouse watched over the Harlem Plains, guarding against invasion. Imagine the tension as soldiers scanned the horizon for enemy movements from this strategic perch.
  
  
• The Great Hill (English Cantonment Area):
  Explore the plateau where British and Hessian troops encamped, their huts dug into the slopes for protection and concealment. Archaeological finds revealed traces of fireplaces, bayonets, and the daily lives of thousands bracing for attack.
  
  
• British Fort Area and Fort Fish
  See the remains of a key fortification named for Revolutionary War hero Nicholas Fish, rebuilt to defend the city from British forces in the War of 1812.
  
  
• British Fort Overlook and Fort Clinton
  Visit the site of a fortified redoubt, now marked by a historic British Revolutionary War cannon and plaque, where British troops once held firm and New Yorkers later rallied to defend their city. Here, you’ll stand where the British finally departed Manhattan before Evacuation Day in 1783, just days before the city celebrated George Washington and Americans’ hard-won freedom.
  
  
• . . . and so much more!

On this immersive walking tour, you’ll explore some of Central Park’s most beautiful but least-known areas. Your historian and licensed New York City guide will bring the past to life in this fascinating tour, featuring vivid storytelling, maps, images, and fascinating insights into the hidden history of today’s Central Park landscape. Experience a rich history that predates the creation of Central Park and gain a deeper appreciation for the beloved green space and its earlier role in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Location: The tour begins and ends around 100th Street on the west side of Central Park

Book the tour today for your corporate group, school group, organization, or family.

EMAIL: BRUCER@DISCOVERNEWYORK.COM or CALL 917 475-6839

Best Revolutionary War Tour in Central Park