Stonewall National Monument

Stonewall National Monument
40.73387194° N, 74.002175° W
Stonewall National Monument

The Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm, and it is closed on Mondays. It remains open on all holidays.

Accessibility & permits

Wheelchair Ramps Elevators & Lifts Handrails Braille Signs Large-Print Signs Accessible Restrooms Accessible Picnic Areas Curb Cuts Accessible Parking Rest Benches Accessible Fountains Service-Animal Relief

Emergency

  • Cell service availability:Full

Stonewall National Monument, situated in the heart of New York City’s Historic Greenwich Village, is a poignant and vibrant destination that embodies the spirit of a pivotal moment in American history. This 7.7-acre park, centered around Christopher Park, is where the modern LGBTQ civil rights movement was born in the defiant protests of June 1969.

As you step into Christopher Park, you’re surrounded by the quaint charm of Greenwich Village, with its historic brownstones, bustling cafes, and eclectic shops. The park itself is a tranquil oasis, bounded by Christopher, Grove, and West Fourth Streets, and it’s here that the Stonewall Inn, a landmark of the uprising, stands as a testament to resilience and activism.

The newly opened Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center at 51 Christopher Street offers an immersive experience, featuring interactive exhibits, lecture series, and captivating visual arts displays that delve into the rich tapestry of LGBTQIA+ history and culture. The center’s dedicated theater space and curated music exhibits, such as the jukebox exhibit curated by Honey Dijon, add depth and vibrancy to the visitor experience.

To fully appreciate the monument, take a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood, exploring the vibrant streets of Greenwich Village. The area is accessible via public transportation, with the Christopher Street-Sheridan Square subway station just a short walk away.

While there are no hiking trails or lakes to explore, the cultural and historical significance of Stonewall National Monument makes it a compelling destination. Visitors can engage with park rangers who offer programming throughout the year, and the surrounding neighborhood is alive with restaurants, shops, and local artisans.

For those looking to immerse themselves further, the nearby Federal Hall offers additional park resources and passport stamps. As the sun sets over Greenwich Village, the area transforms into a dynamic hub of activity, making Stonewall National Monument a must-visit for anyone seeking to connect with a pivotal moment in American history and culture.

Area (mi²)
0.1
Established year
2016

Top 3 Facts about Stonewall National Monument

01

The monument includes Christopher Park, which retains its 1969 appearance, surrounded by an elegant iron fence and featuring a bronze sculpture, “Gay Liberation,” installed in 1992, depicting two life-sized couples on a redesigned plaza with new brick paths and benches.

02

This urban oasis features trees, shrubs, and ivy, along with beds of annual and perennial flowers. The park’s elegant iron fence and arched entrance frame a serene space, home to no notable wildlife but enriched by its historical significance and artistic elements, such as the “Gay Liberation” sculpture.

03

Surrounded by the urban landscape of Greenwich Village, this site lacks natural geological features, but its gardens offer a tranquil oasis. Christopher Park boasts trees, shrubs, and ivy, along with beds of annual and perennial flowers, creating a vibrant contrast to the city’s hustle.

Family programs

  • Junior Ranger
  • Ranger-led Tours
  • Self-guided Tours
  • Virtual Junior Activities

Travel Tips

Plan Ahead

Visit in June for Pride Month events. Plan a memorable afternoon; the park is small. Use public transport or ride-share; limited street parking. Paved paths, wheelchair accessible. Bring snacks; limited food options nearby. Reserve free tickets for the visitor center in advance.

Pack Appropriately

Pack layers for varying weather, sturdy hiking boots, and essential camping gear if staying overnight. Bring headlamps, extra batteries, and a portable water jug. Check the season for specific necessities like warm jackets or sun protection.【Condé Nast Traveller】

Respect Wildlife

Respect urban wildlife by not feeding pigeons or other birds. Keep streets clean, and recycle. Be mindful of local gardens and green spaces, especially during blooming seasons. Leave the area as you found it to preserve its charm.

Stay Informed

Exercise caution on uneven surfaces and busy streets. Watch for changing weather conditions. In emergencies, call 911. Stay informed about park rules and restrictions.

Seasons

Spring

Visit in spring, when temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, for a vibrant experience. Join the Annual Spring Park Planting in May, as volunteers beautify the gardens. Mild weather and community events make spring an ideal time to immerse yourself in this historic site.

Summer

Visit in summer for warm weather, averaging 85°F, and vibrant events. Join the Annual Spring Park Planting in May to beautify the gardens, or explore immersive exhibits and lectures amidst the bustling city. Ideal for experience-seekers, this season offers a rich tapestry of history and culture.

Autumn

Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (50s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage enhance the historic charm. Attend the Spirit and Spite tour in October, a poignant exploration of the 1969 uprising. Mild weather makes it an ideal time to immerse in LGBTQ+ history.

Winter

Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) for a serene experience amid chilly temperatures (25-45°F) and possible snow. The tranquil gardens and historic landmarks take on a peaceful aura, making it an ideal time for a introspective and culturally enriching visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Stonewall National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • You should stay in New York City to visit this monument, specifically in the West Village neighborhood of Greenwich Village in Lower Manhattan. The area includes the Stonewall Inn, Christopher Park, and nearby streets.

  • Dogs must be on a leash in most areas of the park. There are no specified off-leash areas. Owners should check with park rules for any specific restrictions.

  • There is limited metered street parking in the West Village neighborhood, but there is no street parking directly in front of the visitor center. Parking for large vehicles like motorhomes, camper vans, or trailers is not available due to the limited street parking.

  • The top attraction is the site of the Stonewall Inn, where a police raid on June 28, 1969, sparked the Stonewall Uprising, a pivotal event in the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. This site, now part of a 7.7-acre historic landscape in Greenwich Village, New York City, was designated as a national monument by President Barack Obama in 2016. The area includes Christopher Park and the surrounding streets and sidewalks that witnessed the uprising.