Exploring High Bridge with Rare Access Inside the Highbridge Water Tower

The High Bridge connecting Manhattan to the Bronx over the Harlem River isn't just any old bridge — it was the famed centerpiece of the Old Croton Aqueduct, which carried fresh running water to New York City for the first time beginning in the 1840s. Why was this project so important to the city's survival and what remnants can still be seen today? It's time to head to Washington Heights and uncover the incredible story of New York City's oldest bridge.

Join New York Adventure Club for a special exploration of Highbridge Park, from walking on the historic High Bridge that was crucial to New York's first source of running water to ascending the iconic 200-foot-high Highbridge Water Tower.

Led by an Urban Park Ranger, our unique experience will include:

• An overview of the Old Croton Aqueduct, New York City's first source of running water that opened in 1842
• The story behind the construction of the High Bridge and Highbridge Water Tower, which finally brought badly-needed fresh water to Manhattan beginning in 1848
• Special access inside the Highbridge Water Tower for a panoramic view from the top of the 200-foot structure
• A guided walk across High Bridge to see and learn about the bridge's architecture, as well as the area's significance throughout New York history
• The reasons behind why the pedestrian walkway on High Bridge was off-limits for decades, and the people and organizations that helped restore and reopen it in 2015

Click here to see photos from one of our last High Bridge experiences.

See you there!

*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking and stair climbing

**The top of the Highbridge Water Tower can only be accessed via a 200-foot spiral staircase

Testimonials

"Your events are a wonderful way of learning about my home town, even the virtual ones, which I really appreciate since I live in Seattle." -Marguerite

" A water tower access is an amazing experience! A lot of information and interesting facts." -Yevgeniya

" It was a thrill to be able to climb the tower. The guides were very informative, and I learned a lot about the entire water delivery system." -Charles

"The two guides were very knowledgable and pleasant, and made the tour awesome." -Chris

"I liked the general history of the water tower / aqueduct / , light, easy-going presentation" -Ben

"REAL ACCESS INSIDE AND PROFESSIONAL TOUR. GREAT INFO. I lived 3 blocks away almost 60 years ago and never knew about getting to see the inside. I am amazed in the history and that the tower and bridge have been so rightly restored and maintained for other generations." -Edward

"Getting access to the tower and the informative guides who allowed us to have as much time as we needed." -Matthew

"[I liked] Getting a rare look at the inside of the Highbridge Watertower. It was great." -Paul

"[The NYAC Brand Helper] is always organized and good and the three Urban park Rangers were interesting and knowledgable. Learned a lot and it was right lenght and appreciated it started on time" -Lorraine

"A chance to go inside the water tower and walk along the bridge. The rangers were very helpful and patient in making sure everyone went up and down okay." -Michele

Disclaimer

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

Host or Publisher New York Adventure Club