Harbor Defense Museum of Fort Hamilton

Built between 1825 and 1831 as part of the 'Third System of Fortifications' designed to guard New York’s waterways, Fort Hamilton houses the museum within its caponier—a freestanding stone bastion set inside the fort’s dry moat. Both historic structures are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Inside, visitors will find a curated collection of historic weapons, uniforms, and large, unusual military artifacts. Because the museum is located on an active military base, access requires advance preparation: you must book an appointment beforehand and bring proper identification, with international visitors needing a physical passport to pass security at the gate.