2. Behind-the-Scenes Hard Hat Tour of Ellis Island’s Abandoned Hospital

Grab a hard hat and venture into the abandoned halls of Ellis Island’s hospital complex. The hospital on the south shore of Ellis Island has been closed for more than sixty years and it was built more than 100 years ago. During the years the site was active, it also served as offices for the FBI and a training facility for the U.S. Coast Guard.

This Thanksgiving weekend, you can explore the site on a behind-the-scenes tour. Throughout the 29-abandoned buildings you will find pieces of an art installation by artist JR, life-size images that have been curated from Ellis Island’s historical archives, and pasted on the walls, furniture, windows, doors and floors. Guests will learn about the history of the site and plans for its future. 

Behind-the-Scenes Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital