Please, believe me when I say that these tours are worth it.

Ellis Island Hard Hat Tours

The first thing you need to know about these tours is that their name isn’t playful, they require you to wear a hard hat when on the tour because of the environments you’ll be going through. These tours take you into areas that visitors are otherwise restricted from entering because the buildings are in a state of arrested decay. Tour guides will only take you to safe places in the complex, but they don’t want any unexpected stray piece to fall on your head.

There’s a real reason for protection on Ellis Island Hard Hat Tours.

On the tour, your guide will tell you about the history of the island, the immigrants that came through here, and what the buildings and the people in them did. Principally, the buildings you’ll see are tied to the hospital system that supported the immigration process. There are dormitories, industrial laundry facilities, quarantine buildings, even a surgery theater.

You’ll be part of a small group, which could mean as many as 30, but it could also mean just a handful. The tour we went on had just eight of us. The tours are emotional, giving names and sometimes faces to the real people that came through here. Sometimes their tales end in joy, others end in sorrow, and all journeys took deep courage. Perhaps most surprising of all the things I learned is how compassionate this system was.

I don’t want to imply that there wasn’t plenty of tragedy within the walls of Ellis, but hearing the lengths that the hospital workers went through to care for patients was inspiring. The sometimes terrible realities faced by people and the heart wrenching decisions made by family members is almost unfathomable. The fact that so much empathy existed for them by the staff charged to manage this entire process is admirable.

A Historical Primer On Ellis Island

Although Ellis Island’s immigration building was opened in 1892, its roots date back further in US history. It’s first recorded use was as a military fortification in the 1790s during rising tensions with Britain and France. Since the island’s natural state would have left it submerged at high tide, it’s unlikely that there were earlier permanent human uses. The U.S. military, though, did make good use of Ellis Island and it’s neighbor, which is now known as Liberty Island. They constructed forts on each of them which were important defensive structures in the war of 1812, helping to protect New York harbor. Although little remains of the original fortifications, the Statue of Liberty is constructed on one of them. Fort Wood, completed in 1811, now serves as the pedestal for the statue.

The military uses for the two islands faded following the U.S. Civil War and by 1890 the federal government took over immigration within the country. That same year, Congress ordered the construction of the first federal immigration site on Ellis Island. The fortifications were torn down and the first immigrant stations replaced them. It was completed in 1892 but burned down in 1897, fortunately there were no recorded casualties.

The second immigrant station was opened in 1900 – this time it was built to be fireproof, or at least more fireproof. This is the building that we are familiar with today, although it has been significantly expanded since its original construction. The first expansions included a ferry house, a hospital, and a kitchen with laundry facilities. Later expansions were made to include an contagious-disease ward, greenhouse, and even growing the island itself.

On an Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour, you’ll learn so much more about the history of the site.

Immigration to the island was in the hundreds of thousands per year from it’s opening until the outbreak of the First World War in 1915. During the war, immigration to the island collapsed to tens of thousands. Although immigration rebounded to more than half a million after the war ended, new and highly restrictive immigration laws were passed and brought about and end to the era of mass immigration.

There’s a great deal of important history that I’m glossing over and a great deal more that I haven’t even covered. Afterall, despite my history degree and training, my job, here and now, is not to give a seminar on Ellis and immigration history, despite an intense desire to go on and on about interesting things that you likely didn’t know – like I bet that you haven’t heard about the Black Tom explosion that damaged the immigration station on Ellis and was caused by spies from Germany that set fire to a stockpile of munitions! It was the lar…

I’m being told that I should stop by my editor.

As I was saying, my job is to entice you to travel to interesting places. It’s the job of the guides on the Hard Hat Tours on Ellis Island to tell you all about the fascinating history. Seriously, though, I’m leaving a lot out on purpose because that’s the point of the tour!

Why Should You Take The Tour?

If you care about the preservation of Ellis Island and the facilities on it, you should do one of these tours. The proceeds go to Save Ellis Island, a National Park Service partner whose goal and purpose is to preserve and restore the 29 buildings on the south end of the island. As surprising as it may seem today, most of the island’s facilities were abandoned after its closure in 1954 when it had been serving as a detention facility and military complex once again.

Ellis Island Hard Hat Tours are an activity that fills your soul!

The structures sat there, exposed to the elements for nearly twenty years. During that time, there were multiple proposals to redevelop the island into private use for high rise residential or hotel accommodations. All of those fell through. In the mid-1960s, though, the National Park Service proposed to redevelop the island into a national monument and, although the Johnson administration liked the idea and pursued it, nothing happened during that time. It wasn’t until the 1970s when any renovations began by the NPS and only a hundred or so visitors were allowed on the island each day.

It wasn’t until 1990 that the main building was renovated to the point that it was reopened to visitors. Not long after additional renovations allowed the north side of the building to reopen. The original ferry building was renovated as well and it was opened to visitors in 2007. It took 30 years to reopen three-ish buildings. Yes, they are large buildings, but it was 30 years. There are 29 more buildings on the island that haven’t been restored.

Now, the mission of Save Ellis Island isn’t, necessarily, to restore every building in the same way the main building has been. Right now the mission is to bring the other buildings into a state of arrested decay and preserve them from falling into further disrepair. As you might imagine, that takes a fair amount of time and resources. By taking one of these Hard Hat Tours, you help support that effort. You get to personally help support the preservation of American History, you learn things you never knew, and go to places you never thought you could go.

At least for me, personally, I literally cannot think of anything else I would rather do than those three things.

The post The Beautiful Unrestored History of Ellis Island appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

The Reflecting Pool and Lincoln Memorial, National Mall

Washington D.C. For Children

Of course, a Washington DC visit is perfect for families. All of the Smithsonian Museums and the Zoo are free! For an engaging, informative and fun experience for the little ones, the Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum should be at the top of your list. These venues are exceptionally kid-friendly, complete with interactive exhibits that invite youngsters and adults alike to partake in the joy of discovery. I’ll admit that I have been known wait in line to play with the interactive exhibits.

The best places to visit in Washington D.C. for children include the National Zoo and the Natural History Museum.

The National Zoo is free! Visit the Smithsonian’s National Zoo which is a Metro ride to Woodley Park from the National Mall. Sadly, the pandas are no longer there, but that does not mean that the National Zoo is not a terrific family visit. The kids will enjoy the squirt zone, the carousel, the Me and Bee playground, and a virtual reality safari. Adults will enjoy the Zoo as well. I’ve spent many afternoons walking the grounds. Even though the zoo is free you do need entry passes. You can easily get these passes on the Zoo’s website.

The White House

Not to Miss on Your Washington DC Visit

Some of the best places to visit in Washington DC are the most famous.

The White House

No visit to Washington DC is complete without viewing the White House. If you want the inside tour, you must plan in advance as tickets are extremely limited.

If you want a tour, submit White House tour requests through your Member of Congress. These self-guided tours are generally available Tuesday through Saturday (excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise noted). Tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. You can make requests up to three months before and no less than 21 days in advance. Submit your request as early as possible as a limited number of spaces are available. e in their request. The White House tour is free of charge. Please note that White House tours may be subject to last minute cancellation.

The U.S. Capitol

One of the most important places to visit in Washington DC, the US Capitol opens its doors to welcome visitors. I strongly suggest booking a private tour to gain easy entry and learn more about the behind the scenes at the U.S. Capitol. Summers can be steamy in Washington DC and it is no fun waiting at the entrance.

Many Many Museums

Get ready to step into the vibrant world of Washington D.C’s iconic museums! The Museum of Natural History claims to be the world’s most popular natural history museum, and for good reason. Remember, it is also the home of the famous Hope Diamond. From the engrossing tales at the Museum of American History to the rich cultural tapestry of the Museum of the American Indian, and the powerful narratives unfolded in the Museum of African American History – there’s a treasure trove of wonder awaiting you in every corner! The museums are definitely the best places to visit in Washington D.C.

Important Tip: The Museum of African American History requires a pass. Because these passes go quickly, book them as soon as you can.

The National Museum of African-American History

Ford Theater

The Lincoln Theater is nearby and you can visit with a Lincoln Assassination Walking tour. Make sure you book a tour in advance. Your tour guide will make you feel as if you were there the night Lincoln was assassinated. For this reason, the theater is on our list of “must do’s” when we have company.

Arlington Cemetery

I have been to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia many times, which is an easy Metro ride from Alexandria. I consider it one of the most important places to visit in Washington DC.The last time I was there I booked an Arlington National Cemetery Tour for myself and my family. As a result, I learned things about the history of the grounds and stopped at the graves of many famous people that I would not have found on my own. The guide will make sure that you see the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Make sure you wear good walking shoes for this tour.

More

Aside from exploring the political and historic landmarks, there are numerous additional activities to indulge in while you’re visiting Washington DC. For instance, you must not miss the world-class performances and immersive tours the Kennedy Center offers. Furthermore, you can enrich your cultural appreciation by visiting our abundant free art galleries and museums, each showcasing unique exhibits and collections. My favorite is the National Museum of Art where you will find classical as well as modern art.

Don’t Forget to Eat on Your Washington DC Visit

Remember, museums here aren’t just about artifacts; they’re culinary destinations too! Take the Sweet Home Café nestled within the beautiful National Museum of African American History, for example. This gem is not just highly recommended, but sparkling with rave reviews from top food critics. My personal favorite is Mitsitam at the Museum of the American Indian where I can get both fry bread and grilled salmon. All of the museums will have cafes and places to grab a quick bite.

And that’s not all! On your Washington DC visit venture north of the mall and you’ll be spoiled by a parade of tantalizing food trucks and a variety of restaurants waiting to tease your taste buds. Accordingly, it will be a feast for the senses, indeed! We can provide recommendations!

Practical Advice for Visiting Washinton D.C.

It’s easy visiting Washington DC with the swift and efficient Metro system. I’ve rarely driven into Washington DC, opting to use the Metro to get around to all the places to visit in Washington DC.

When visiting Washington D.C. for a tour of the iconic monuments, it’s essential to gear up in comfortable footwear, considering the considerable amount of walking involved. I have walked up to 5 miles, even after leaving out a few monuments. Try an evening stroll around the monuments, as these hours offer a less crowded experience, allowing you to immerse fully in their historical grandeur. I love booking a moonlight tour of the monuments when family visits.

Fly into Reagan National Airport (DCA) and book your stay in Alexandria, Virginia. This can be both a time and cost-efficient option for travelers. Many hotels in Alexandria offer the convenience of shuttle services to and from the airport.

When I can, I spend a night in Alexandria. The town is steeped in rich history and boasts an array of shopping venues and diverse dining options. Additionally, there is a Metro Station at the West end of Alexandria. This connects you seamlessly to the much-loved Washington D.C. National Mall and many of the Smithsonian Museums. It makes visiting Washington DC a breeze. I have spent weekends in Alexandria with family. We have spent the day in DC or at Arlington National Cemetary and have had a wonderful dinner and evening in Alexandria.

Finally, let us help you find the perfect hotel and book your private tours before you arrive. Want to find the best airfare? Then check out our valuable tips for saving money on airfare and our tips for making your flights more enjoyable.

The post An Insider’s Guide to a Washington DC Visit appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.