Adventure brief
Nursing Tour inside Ellis Island's Abandoned Hospital
Step inside the hauntingly beautiful abandoned hospital on Ellis Island and discover the touching stories of nurses who cared for early immigrants. This private guided tour in Jersey City offers a unique look at history and art combined.
Experience a captivating journey through Ellis Island’s abandoned hospital, guided by untold stories of the nurses who shaped immigrant healthcare. This private tour offers a rare glimpse into the historic wards where compassion met hardship, revealing the enduring legacy of Florence Nightingale's influence on early medical practices in the United States. As you navigate the shadowed hallways and sterile rooms, you'll uncover powerful narratives of care, survival, and resilience.
The tour also features JR's evocative art installation, which brings light and perspective to the forgotten spaces within this medical landmark. Located just across from Jersey City, this experience blends history, art, and emotional storytelling, making it a memorable adventure for history buffs, art lovers, and curious travelers alike. Whether you're fascinated by medical history or drawn to off-the-beaten-path locations, this tour provides an intimate connection to a place that once stood at the frontier of immigrant healthcare.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Book in Advanceessential
Tours have limited availability due to the exclusive nature of accessing the abandoned hospital, so book early to secure your spot.
- 02Wear Comfortable Shoesinfo
Expect to walk on uneven floors and navigate stairs inside the old hospital building.
- 03Bring a Flashlightwarning
Some areas are dimly lit or shadowed, so a small flashlight can enhance your experience without disturbing the atmosphere.
- 04Avoid Large Bagsinfo
Space inside the hospital is limited and narrow, so carry small bags to move freely.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides good support for walking on uneven floors inside the hospital.
EssentialLight Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm during cooler seasons and inside chilly parts of the building.
fallEssentialFlashlight or Headlamp
Helps illuminate dim areas to better appreciate details during the tour.
Small Backpack or Bag
Allows you to carry essentials without hindering movement in narrow hallways.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The hospital's preserved surgical amphitheater, JR's large-scale portrait installations throughout the building
Local fauna
Herring gulls along the waterfront, Great blue herons in nearby Liberty State Park
Historic heritage
Ellis Island's hospital was a vital facility from 1902 to 1951, serving millions of immigrants arriving in America and reflecting early 20th-century medical practices.
Mindful exploration
Efforts are ongoing to preserve Ellis Island’s historic structures while minimizing impact on the surrounding natural waterfront habitats.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Inside the main hospital wards, From the ferry approaching Ellis Island, JR’s art installation points
- Subjects
- Historic medical architecture, Eerie empty hallways, Documentary-style portraits and details
- Best times
- Golden hour, Midday for even light, Overcast days for moody shots
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is suitable for older children and teenagers interested in history, but younger children might find some parts of the hospital unsettling.
Are photography and video allowed during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed, but use of flash and tripods may be restricted to preserve the space and respect other visitors.
How do I get to Ellis Island from Jersey City?
Ferry transportation is available from Liberty State Park in Jersey City to Ellis Island, included in your tour booking details.
Are there any accessibility accommodations?
Due to the historic nature of the hospital, some areas may not be accessible to visitors with mobility challenges; please contact Untapped New York for specifics.
What should I bring to the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a small bag, and a light jacket are recommended. A flashlight can also enhance your experience.
Is the hospital safe to explore?
Yes, the tour is guided or self-guided with safety measures in place, but visitors should be cautious of uneven floors and stairs.