Have you ever wondered what it was like to be a soldier in the American Revolution? Do you want to see a stunning view of the Hudson River and Manhattan? If so, you should visit Historic Fort Lee, a park and museum that preserves the history and beauty of this important site.

What is Historic Fort Lee?

Historic Fort Lee is a park and museum located on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River in Fort Lee, New Jersey. It is part of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, which manages over 100,000 acres of parkland along the Hudson River.

Historic Fort Lee was the site of a fort built by George Washington and his army in 1776 to defend New York City and the Hudson River from the British. The fort was named after General Charles Lee, who had won a major victory in South Carolina that summer.

The fort was part of a plan to block the British ships from sailing up the river with the help of another fort on the opposite side, Fort Washington. The forts also had underwater obstacles called chevaux-de-frise to damage the enemy vessels.

However, the plan failed when the British captured Fort Washington in November 1776, forcing Washington and his army to retreat from Fort Lee. This was the start of the famous “Retreat Across New Jersey”, which ended with the victories at Trenton and Princeton.

Today, Historic Fort Lee preserves the history of this crucial moment in the American Revolution. It has a reconstructed encampment area with a blockhouse, a battery, and quarters for the soldiers. It also has a visitor center with exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of the fort and its people.

What can you do at Historic Fort Lee?

There are many things to do and see at Historic Fort Lee. Here are some of them:

• Enjoy the scenic views of the Hudson River, Manhattan, and the George Washington Bridge from the overlooks.
• Explore the historic encampment area and see how the soldiers lived and worked at the fort.
• Visit the visitor center and learn more about the history of the fort, the war, and the people involved.
• Watch historic re-enactments and demonstrations by costumed interpreters during special events.
• Participate in educational programs and activities for children and adults.
• Hike or bike on the trails that connect to other parts of the Palisades Interstate Park.
• Picnic or relax on the lawn or at the pavilion.

How can you visit Historic Fort Lee?

Historic Fort Lee is open year-round, Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Parking is available at the park entrance.

To get there by car, take Route 4 or Route 46 to Jones Road in Fort Lee. Follow Jones Road to Hudson Terrace. Turn left onto Hudson Terrace and follow it to Bruce Reynolds Boulevard. Turn right onto Bruce Reynolds Boulevard and follow it to Parker Avenue. Turn left onto Parker Avenue and follow it to Fletcher Avenue. Turn right onto Fletcher Avenue and follow it to Palisade Avenue. Turn left onto Palisade Avenue and follow it to Hudson Terrace. Turn right onto Hudson Terrace and follow it to park entrance.

To get there by public transportation, take NJ Transit bus #156 or #159 from Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City or from other locations in New Jersey. Get off at Hudson Terrace and Main Street in Fort Lee. Walk north on Hudson Terrace for about half a mile to park entrance.

For more information about Historic Fort Lee, visit their website or call (201) 461-1776.

Why should you visit Historic Fort Lee?

Historic Fort Lee is a great place to visit for anyone who loves history, nature, or both. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the past and appreciate the present. It is also a fun and educational destination for families, groups, or individuals.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Historic Fort Lee today and discover a revolutionary experience!