On Wall Street in New York City’s Financial District, Federal Hall National Memorial marks the site of the first U.S. Capitol and George Washington’s 1789 inauguration. The present Greek Revival building dates to 1842; the earlier building on this site served as New York’s City Hall. Inside, exhibits cover the city’s postcolonial history, New York Harbor and the Coast Guard. Look for the inauguration balcony and the Bible associated with Washington’s oath. Admission is free, so it’s an easy history stop between Financial District sights.
The first U.S. Capitol on Wall Street
Federal Hall occupies a site at 26 Wall Street where New York’s City Hall once stood. The earlier building, completed in 1703, later became the first Capitol of the United States. The first Congress met here, and the building also housed the Supreme Court and executive branch offices.
In 1789, George Washington took the oath of office as the first president of the United States at Federal Hall. New York was then the country’s capital. The site also has a connection to the Bill of Rights, which was passed during the early work of the first Congress.
The building you see today
The original Federal Hall was demolished in 1812. The current building was completed in 1842 in the Greek Revival style, with a design modeled on the Greek Parthenon. Its Corinthian columns and broad steps give the exterior a formal scale against the surrounding Financial District.
A statue of George Washington stands outside, looking across Wall Street toward the New York Stock Exchange. The memorial is close to the exchange, making the steps and statue natural points to see before or after a visit inside.
What to look for inside
The exhibits place Federal Hall within the story of New York after the colonial period. Displays cover New York Harbor and the U.S. Coast Guard, including Coast Guard art. The former Customs House is another part of the site’s history: Federal Hall served that role in the late 18th century.
Look for the balcony associated with Washington’s inauguration and the Bible used for his oath. The exhibits also address the early development of American government, from the first Congress to the Supreme Court and executive offices that once operated here.
Planning your visit
The visitor center entrance is on Pine Street. If the Wall Street entrance is closed, follow the signs to the alternative entrance. The memorial is open Wednesday through Sunday and closed Monday and Tuesday. Admission is free, and restrooms are available without a ticket.
This is a compact stop, so you can fit it into a walk around Wall Street without setting aside a large part of the day. Take time to read the displays if you want more than a look at the exterior and statue.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is Federal Hall National Memorial free to visit?
Yes. Admission is free, and you do not need a ticket to use the restrooms.
Where is Federal Hall National Memorial?
It is at 15 Pine Street, on Wall Street in Manhattan’s Financial District, across from the New York Stock Exchange.
What can you see inside Federal Hall?
Exhibits cover postcolonial New York, New York Harbor and the Coast Guard. You can also see the balcony associated with Washington’s inauguration and the Bible used for his oath.
How long should you spend at Federal Hall?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for a visit.
Which days is Federal Hall open?
It is open Wednesday through Sunday and closed Monday and Tuesday.
