how to tour west point

United States Military Academy

2107 New South Post Rd., West Point, NY, 10996

United States Military Academy is off SR 9W at 2107 New South Post Rd. The West Point Visitor Center just outside Thayer Gate offers orientation films, exhibits, a replica of a cadet barracks room, maps and brochures. Departing from the visitor center, West Point Tours offers 1.25- and 2-hour narrated combined bus and walking tours of the grounds and some buildings. Tour highlights include Cadet Chapel, which features stained-glass windows and one of the largest church organs in the world; Old Cadet Chapel, built in 1836; Trophy Point, a repository of war relics dating from the American Revolution; and the Plain, a large cadet parade field. Note: A government-issued photo ID is required for anyone over age 17 for all tours. Guided tours are available.

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FOUR WAYS TO VISIT WEST POINT

While the U.S. Military Academy at West Point is a college campus, it's also an active Army base and training facility. That means that unlike other college campuses, you can't just drive on and walk into classrooms and dorm rooms without planning your visit a little in advance. So whether you're a sports fan, historian, young aspiring Cadet, or a full-fledged Candidate, here are four easy ways to visit West Point.

1. The Sports Fan: Fall Visit to Michie Stadium

A home football game at West Point offers brisk weather, beautiful Hudson River views, a kaleidoscope of changing leaves, and plenty of opportunities to watch cadets in action. Since game days are among the most visitor-friendly days at West Point, it’s also a great way for aspiring students to experience a Saturday on campus. Purchase your tickets and parking passes in advance at GoArmyWestPoint.com and plan to arrive early! The Cadet Review parade normally takes place two hours before game time and requires a steep 1.2-mile walk from the parade field back up to Michie Stadium.

Even if you don’t plan to attend the Cadet Review, make sure to get to the stadium in time to catch some of the kick-off festivities, including helicopter fly-overs and the parachuting team’s tradition of sky-diving onto the 50-yard line to deliver the game ball. West Point’s Michie Stadium is regularly named one of the top stadiums with the best atmosphere in college football. ESPN, USA Today, Sports Illustrated, and the National Football League all agree: attending an Army West Point football game at Michie Stadium is one of the most memorable experiences in sports! We think it’s a memorable experience for an aspiring student too.

2. The Historian: Winter Guided Tour

Did you know that the infamous traitor Benedict Arnold nearly gave West Point over to the British Army during the Revolutionary War? Did you know that a congressman wrote Hiram Grant’s name incorrectly on his West Point application, which is why we know him today as Ulysses S. Grant? These are just a few of the true stories that you will learn while touring campus with West Point Tours. The hour-and-fifteen minute tour (Adults $15, Children $12, Under-2 free) makes stops at the Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, Battle Monument, and the Plain. We suggest booking the 10:15 a.m. tour during a weekday, which gives you plenty of time to catch the Cadets convening for lunch formation.

The current visitor’s center is under construction, but there is still plenty of parking for visitors. Plan to have your identification checked prior to going on campus. And while winter is a fun time to see the cadets in action, West Point can be known to get a little chilly. If you’re cold-adverse, plan to visit during the warmer months or dress accordingly!

3. The Aspiring Student: Spring Admissions Visit

West Point is consistently ranked among the top undergraduate institutions in the nation, and ranked in the top five for Best Classroom Experience, Accessible Professors, Diversity Interaction, Health Services, Intramural Sports, and Library Services! Even if you’re too young to begin an application to West Point, we highly encourage young men and women to come visit through the Admissions visitation program. On weekdays from September to April, West Point’s Admissions Directorate offers tours for you and your family to meet with cadets and staff and to see our campus alive with the activity of the school year. High school students can schedule a visit that includes shadowing a cadet, or even staying overnight; however, overnight visits are reserved for juniors or seniors that have already started an application file.

No matter your age, we suggest combining your visit to West Point with a trip to New York City. (Because why not?) After enjoying all the city has to offer, head to Grand Central Station and board the Metro North Poughkeepsie-bound commuter train for an hour-long ride to the Garrison stop. (We suggest taking the train in off-peak hours. Here’s a map. ) West Point Taxi offers $20 rides to West Point, where there are many hotel options including the Thayer Hotel or the Holiday Inn. On the day of your visit, plan to arrive at the Admissions office by 7:30 a.m., as the briefing starts at 7:45 a.m. Remember that you’ll need to go through the Visitor Center’s security station prior to entering Thayer Gate. All Admissions appointments can be made by calling 845-938-5760.

4. The Cadet Candidate: Summer Leaders Experience

Perhaps the most authentic way that an aspiring student can visit West Point is through the Summer Leaders Experience. Though attending SLE requires a competitive application—there are only 1,000 slots and typically more than 6,000 applicants—it’s one of the best ways for an aspiring student to determine if West Point is the right choice for their college experience. Jam-packed with academic, athletic, military, and social activities, SLE is a place where people make life-long friends and try on what it feels like to be a cadet at West Point.

High School students can apply for SLE in January of their junior year by filling out the Candidate Questionnaire and indicating interest in the summer program. From living in a cadet dorm to attending classes and participating in hands-on military training, SLE is a fully-immersive week designed to give you a taste of life at the U.S. Military Academy. And while it is an optional step in the application process, we’ve seen time and time again the difference that one week can make in steeling an aspiring student’s resolve to make his or her application the best it can be, to successfully complete the journey to becoming a cadet at West Point.

It’s important for high school students to do as much research as possible before deciding where to attend college. So, whether you revel in our competitive sports, unique history, beautiful campus, or our immersive Summer Leaders Experience, we hope you take the time to visit and learn about West Point. Who knows? It might just be your college home.

More questions? Visit www.usma.edu or contact us at the Admissions Directorate at 845-938-5760.

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The top 9 things to do when visiting West Point

There’s an automatic reverence attached to a location steeped with as much history, patriotism, and bravery as West Point, New York. The significance of its location along the west banks of the Hudson River was recognized by George Washington during the Revolutionary War, and today, it is the longest continuously operating military installation in America.

Whether you’re returning as an alum, visiting a cadet, or simply value the rich traditions of a place that’s rooted in the birth of our nation, there’s plenty to do and see in West Point.

We’ve created our list of the top things to do when visiting West Point, and while you're planning your visit be sure to consider staying at one of our properties conveniently located inside West Point, IHG Army Hotels Five Star Inn and IHG Army Hotels Beat Navy House .

West Point Visitors Center

6 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily, free

Not sure where to start? Head to the West Point Visitors Center. To check out West Point, you will first need to report to the Visitors Control Center to get a background check.

The Visitors Center offers an excellent overview of West Point with continuously playing educational videos and exhibits. Learn about cadet life and get a glimpse inside a full-scale cadet barracks room. Or, be captivated by a video covering West Point’s extensive history.

From there, consider booking a tour or visiting the Army West Point Gift Shop.

Fun fact, this is West Point’s third Visitors Center, which officially opened in December 2017.

West Point Museum

9:30–4:15 p.m., Tuesday–Sunday, free

If only these walls could talk! The West Point Museum is the country’s oldest federal museum, with a direct link to the American Revolutionary War. For more than 150 years, the museum has publicly displayed a selection of West Point’s more than 60,000 army artifacts.

The exhibits in the museum and throughout the academy aim to “collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret historically significant artifacts” related to the academy, the U.S. Army, and the Profession of Arms. Transport back to the start of West Point during the Revolutionary War and learn about the evolution of small and large weaponry as far back as the Stone Age.

If you return during warmer months, you can tour Fort Putnam, one of the main structures of West Point during the American Revolution that has been restored to its original state.

Army Football Game

Check website for schedule and costs

If you’re visiting West Point in the fall, be sure to look at the Army football schedule! This is no ordinary football game. It’s an experience brimming with the tradition, honor, and history of the Black Knights of the Hudson Valley.

With its motto “Duty, Honor, Country,” fans know this is bigger than a game. As one of the first schools to start a football program, Army’s mission is to mold its scholar-athletes into leaders.

Game traditions highlight cadets and academy life. Pregame, a full regiment of cadets march onto the field and stand in formation alongside the U.S. Military Academy Band. The game ball is literally dropped into Michie Stadium via parachute jump, cadets lead the crowd in The Rocket cheer, and the stadium erupts into Army’s fight song with the Cadet Band.

Cannons proclaim kickoff and touchdowns. And check out Army’s uniforms: several custom designs honor historic U.S. Army events.

Guided Tours of West Point

Dive into West Point’s astounding and extensive history during a guided tour! The “West Point Story” walks you back through time, taking you on a journey from West Point’s first days in the American Revolution to its present use as one of the country’s premier military academies.

With its 75 years of experience, family-owned and operated West Point Tours shares its extensive knowledge on the historic figures who walked the grounds and shaped our nation’s future. The tour stops at Trophy Point, Battle Monument, the Plain, and the Cadet Chapel.

If you have time, schedule the History and Tradition Cemetery Tour. Covering all the same stories and stops as “West Point Story,” the cemetery tour includes the West Point Cemetery and Old Cadet Chapel.

Thayer Hotel Restaurants

Check the website for hours and availability

After a day of visiting historic sites, take a break and recharge with a memorable meal. Head to MacArthur’s Riverview Restaurant located in the historic Thayer Hotel at West Point. Situated along the river, MacArthur’s boasts beautiful views indoors and out. Enjoy an award-winning Sunday Champagne Brunch or hand-cut steaks at dinner.

Head to Zulu Time Rooftop Lounge—the only rooftop bar between New York City and Albany—for drink specials like the Thayer Lemonade, Summer Soldier, and West Point Graduate. Zulu closes for the season mid-November.

West Point Golf Course

7:30 a.m. to dusk, Tuesday through Sunday

A perfect way to marry history and leisure, the West Point Golf Course is a challenging 18-hole course that walks golfers through history.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones, the stunning mountain course lies just north of the Bear Mountain Bridge. The course is home to Army golf and open to the public. Tee markers cite significant moments in Army history, starting with the American Revolution and ending with the Middle East.

Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site

11 a.m.-3 p.m., Friday and Saturday (November through mid-April), free

Many of the decisions that shaped those earliest days of our nation took place on this ground. Now the country’s first publicly owned historic site, this is where General George Washington began forming the American republic. 

With award-winning exhibits and costumed interpreters, you’ll be transported back in time. View more than 1,300 items from Washington’s headquarters, tour the Tower of Victory, take in the scenery during a picnic lunch, and enjoy the site’s recently improved grounds and pathways.

A current exhibit asks visitors to share their views of Washington’s Headquarters. Be part of history by submitting your photos for “Framing history: A year in pictures.”

Bear Mountain State Park

$10 per vehicle on weekends and holidays (September through March)

The natural beauty of the Hudson Valley is a sight to behold. Take it all in at Bear Mountain State Park, along the west bank of the Hudson River.

Bear Mountain offers plenty of recreation like biking and hiking trails, camping, boat rentals, fishing, and more. Climb the mountain and access breathtaking views of the park from Perkins Memorial Tower.

After some vigorous activity, take a break in the picnic areas or let the kids burn off remaining energy at the playground and Nature Center. Over the winter months, you also can take advantage of ice skating.

Don’t miss Bear’s Mountain’s beautifully hand-painted merry-go-round featuring the park’s native animals!

Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve

Sunrise to sunset, free

Enjoy the great outdoors along the Hudson River! Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve is an 8,000-acre area with more than 70 miles of trails for novice to advanced hikers.

Plan your route ahead of time in this scenic, but mostly undeveloped, preserve. Discover dozens of native plants and animals in habitats ranging from lush forests to rocky ridges. Bring your binoculars for some amazing bird watching. The preserve includes Bird Conservation Areas where guests have reported sightings of Cerulean Warblers, Peregrine Falcons, and Bald Eagles.

The preserve also offers seasonal boating, fishing, and hunting.

No matter why you may be visiting West Point, if you’re looking for something to do we encourage you to check out some of the activities we listed here. You’ll be immersed in the rich history of this city, and feel the utmost appreciation for all the cadets who have come through the Academy.

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How to Get into West Point

The first question that a candidate should be prepared to answer is, "Why do you want to go to  West Point ?" Whatever the reason, they ultimately will lead American soldiers, possibly in combat against terrorists.

The basic standards for consideration have changed somewhat over the years. On July 1 of the year of admission, a candidate must be at least 17 years of age but not yet 23; a U.S. citizen (except for international cadets); and unmarried. Also, candidates must not be pregnant or legally obligated to support a dependent.

Academically, candidates must have an above-average high school/college record and score well on the ACT or SAT. Recommended high school/college courses include four years of English, four years of mathematics (pre-calculus and calculus, if available), two years of a foreign language, two years of laboratory science and one year of U.S. history; plus geography, government, economics and computing.

Physically, candidates should participate in vigorous competitive team sports, individual sports that stress endurance (including running at least two miles), and personal training that includes push-ups, pull-ups and sit-ups.

From a leadership standpoint, participation in sports, student government, public speaking and activities such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts continue to be important, with the caveat that the academy would prefer distinction in a single activity over mere participation in a variety of activities.

Medically, a candidate must be in sound mental and physical health. A modern requirement: no tattoos or brands on the face, neck or head. No tattoos prejudicial to good order and discipline anywhere. On R-Day, all existing tattoos, brands and body modifications will be documented. Additions to the same while a cadet is grounds for dismissal.

The physical fitness evaluation is tougher than it was years ago.

For one thing, it is carefully timed, with limited rest (only three minutes) between the first five events, and a rigid sequence of events. The first event is a kneeling basketball throw (three attempts in two minutes). A max score of 100 points requires men to throw the ball 102 feet while women can max it with a throw of 66 feet. After a short rest, candidates have two minutes to do pull-ups (palms forward) from a dead hang. Max is 18 for men and seven for women. Another short rest (three minutes) is followed by a shuttle run -- out 30 feet, turn, race back and repeat. Two attempts are allowed in two minutes. Top score is 7.8 seconds for men and 8.6 seconds for women. Next come sit-ups: both men and women need 95 in two minutes to max. After another short rest, push-ups loom: men need 75 in two minutes; women need 50 to max. Finally, after an eight-minute rest, all candidates run the mile. Men can gain 100 points for a 5:20 effort; women have to make six minutes flat. As all candidates are in competition with at least some other candidates, minimums tend to be less important.

Some things, however, do not change. Every candidate must secure a nomination from a congressman, senator or the vice president, or if eligible, secure a service-connected nomination.

Each congressional nominating source has a total of five vacancies at West Point -- ideally, at any given time, at least three or four are filled with current cadets. For any remaining vacancies, 10 young men or women may be nominated to compete. Fully qualified candidates not receiving an appointment are placed on a national waiting list for vacancies that may arise. Often, several hundred new cadets are selected from this list, some just a few days before R-Day.

The admissions website offers guidance on applying for nominations and a lot more. Interested students can start young and sign up for a mailing list to receive age-appropriate literature from the academy. Older candidates (second semester of junior year in high school or older) may open a file at West Point online after reading a general prospectus.

The academic workshops of yore now are called Summer LEADERS Seminars. (LEADERS is an acronym for aspects of the West Point experience: Loyalty, Ethics, Academics, Duty, Excellence, Respect and Sports.) This year, about 735 high school juniors attended one of two sessions conducted during June. They lived in the cadet barracks and ate in Washington Hall. In addition to participating in academic workshops in four of 16 courses offered, the attendees receive daily physical fitness training, compete in intramural athletics, spend a day at Camp Buckner on the Leaders Reaction Course and receive other military orientation. They also tour West Point and the Museum, take a boat ride on the Hudson, and even enjoy a mixer. All candidates are led and trained by a cadre of about 43 cadets. Students may request applications for the Summer LEADERS Seminar online from September to April of their junior year in high school by visiting the admissions website and selecting the Summer Seminar tab.

Interested students also may make an orientation visit to the academy. A cadet volunteer will escort the student to an academic class and to lunch in Washington Hall. These visits typically begin at 9 a.m. on Mondays through Fridays from September through April. At least two weeks' advance notice is required to schedule such a visit.

If you would like to help qualified young men and women seek a nomination, you may be interested in becoming an admissions volunteer. All it takes is dedication, some free time and the willingness to learn about the various aspects of the process.

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• Service Academy Discussion
• Military Academy - USMA

Visiting West Point

• Thread starter che527
• Start date Oct 9, 2016
• Oct 9, 2016

I am looking at the Visits Page on the West Point Website; and I see that the self-tours are only available during the summer, where you can just walk in the campus and go through the front, since class is not in session. Does this mean if I visit West Point this month (Oct.), would I have to schedule an actual guided tour (someone from admissions or something would tour us)? I am not a candidate yet, I am just interested in touring.  

che527 said: I am looking at the Visits Page on the West Point Website; and I see that the self-tours are only available during the summer, where you can just walk in the campus and go through the front, since class is not in session. Does this mean if I visit West Point this month (Oct.), would I have to schedule an actual guided tour (someone from admissions or something would tour us)? I am not a candidate yet, I am just interested in touring. Click to expand...

My son went for a visit as a junior. After a briefing he spent a few hours with a cadet. Went on a short tour and attended a class followed by lunch. There was a separate brief and group tour for parents. During the brief the briefing officer was specific about not believing what you read on forums, especially this one. I had never heard of it so afterwards while waiting for my son I checked it out on my phone. While there is some bad information floating around someone usually sets the record straight fairly quickly. The insight gleaned from this forum played no small part in his being awarded an AROTC scholarship.  

AJC said: My son went for a visit as a junior. After a briefing he spent a few hours with a cadet. Went on a short tour and attended a class followed by lunch. There was a separate brief and group tour for parents. During the brief the briefing officer was specific about not believing what you read on forums, especially this one. I had never heard of it so afterwards while waiting for my son I checked it out on my phone. While there is some bad information floating around someone usually sets the record straight fairly quickly. The insight gleaned from this forum played no small part in his being awarded an AROTC scholarship. Click to expand...

Yes, I do not remember if it was done on line or with a phone call. Be sure to bring government approved identification, you will need it to get past the front gate.  

Capt MJ said: http://www.usma.edu/admissions/SitePages/Visit.aspx If you haven't yet read every page, dropdown and link on Service Academy Admissions websites, I recommend it. From the way I read this, during the academic year, it's as described, with no self-touring. Click to expand...

che527 said: Can we visit on Columbus Day? Click to expand...

Capt MJ said: It's a Federal holiday. I am fairly certain it will be observed by faculty, staff and cadets. One of our USNA sponsor mids had her USMA sister down for a visit this weekend, and neither have class tomorrow. I would draw the conclusion no one will be in Admissions. Click to expand...

I think we are back at your original post, where you indicated your research, presumably on a West Point visitor page, indicated self-tours were not available at this time of year. I provided a link on how to coordinate an Admissions briefing and tour. On the same pages you are visiting, I saw the information for the paid bus tour from an external vendor, another option. That does say it takes 48 hours to clear the manifest. http://www.usma.edu/visitors/SitePages/Home.aspx http://www.usma.edu/visiting/SitePages/Home.aspx At this point, if I were in your shoes, having exhausted what can be learned online, I would call the Visitor Center in the morning, and in the mean time, hope for more knowledgeable posters.  

The security at WP has changed with much tighter control. You will need to present ID and fill out a form for tours if they are available. You must understand WP is very much an active duty post. In the past 12 months a number incidents have tightened security. You are not allowed to wander about the post at anytime. The tours will take you to the Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, Museums, Old Cadet Chapel and historical makers. You may not visit Washington hall, Central Area, Grant Hall, Class rooms and Barracks. I would call before going. Push hard, Press Forward  

• Oct 10, 2016

The admissions office does early morning briefings conducted by one of the regional commanders. They are very good, and follow with a campus tour. The candidates who are invited to do an overnight visit will leave with a host Cadet after the briefing, and shadow the cadet until the next morning. Candidates are also allowed to meet with the RC who is on duty for the briefing. This opportunity is pure gold, and the RC will give a full and candid assessment of the candidates application. The tours are guided, which is a good thing. You want insight.  

brovol said: The admissions office does early morning briefings conducted by one of the regional commanders. They are very good, and follow with a campus tour. The candidates who are invited to do an overnight visit will leave with a host Cadet after the briefing, and shadow the cadet until the next morning. Candidates are also allowed to meet with the RC who is on duty for the briefing. This opportunity is pure gold, and the RC will give a full and candid assessment of the candidates application. The tours are guided, which is a good thing. You want insight. Click to expand...

I am pretty sure the only way you could walk around West Point on your own as a visitor is if you have a DoD CAC or dependent ID card holder.  

Anything inside Cullum and Washington Rd is off limits to the public. Even if you are a parent with a Cadet. There are certain weekends when families have the opportunity to explore the post. Push Hard, Press Forward  

the cemetery is worth a visit. a lot of history there. also puts things in perspective.  

2,400+ US flights canceled: United, American Airlines resume service after global outage

• A global IT outage caused delays and cancellations for air passengers around the world.
• Several U.S. carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, issued ground stops for all their flights early on Friday due to communication problems.
• The aviation sector is hit particularly hard due to its sensitivity to timings.

Get more news like this delivered to your inbox by signing up for our Travel newsletter here .

William Sikora III was supposed to fly from Philadelphia to Detroit on Friday morning.

“We are stuck at this airport,” he posted in a video on X at 6 a.m., zooming in on blue airport screens showing system errors. “United, Delta, America, all this stuff is down. People are just sitting here. The apps still say our flight’s on time because they can’t update information in the apps.”

Air passengers around the world faced delays, cancellations and problems checking in as airports and airlines were caught up in a  massive IT outage  that also affected industries ranging from banks to media companies.

Several U.S. carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, issued ground stops for all their flights early on Friday due to communication problems, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

There were over 2,400 flights canceled and more than 7,600 delays as of 3 p.m. ET, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware . Most airlines were able to resume operations as the morning progressed, but many said they expected disruptions to continue throughout the day.

More on the outage: Global tech outage grounds flights, hits banks and media businesses

Megan Brown said Washington Dulles Airport was surprisingly calm, even as the airline industry was in turmoil. She said the airport was less crowded than usual, making for a quicker-than-expected security screening, and passengers seemed understanding about the disruptions.

"We just took the gamble and came here, and hopefully we’ll leave today,” Brown told USA TODAY by phone from Dulles. “There’s nothing you can do.”

Her family's 8:25 a.m. ET flight to San Francisco was delayed, but they were able to take off within a couple of hours. "A cheer just erupted as the gate agent said we are going to start boarding," she said.

Around the world, airports and airlines advised customers to arrive earlier than normal for flights.

Around 9 a.m. Sikora posted another video showing fellow travelers sitting on the floor and standing in the middle of a crowded Philadelphia International Airport terminal. 

“Everyone is in the same boat. Just wandering and sitting,” he told USA TODAY.

Issues online: Instagram may be the best social app to get your flight issues fixed. Here's why.

The cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike blamed the global tech outage on a defect in an update for Microsoft Windows hosts.

“Today was not a security or cyber incident. Our customers remain fully protected," Crowdstrike CEO George Kurtz posted on X . "We understand the gravity of the situation and are deeply sorry for the inconvenience and disruption. We are working with all impacted customers to ensure that systems are back up and they can deliver the services their customers are counting on. As noted earlier , the issue has been identified and a fix has been deployed. There was an issue with a Falcon content update for Windows Hosts."

The aviation sector was hit particularly hard due to its sensitivity to timings. Airlines rely on a closely coordinated schedule often run by air traffic control. Just one delay of a few minutes can throw off a flight schedule for take-offs and landings for an airport and airline for the rest of the day.

"The issue affected many separate systems, such as those used for calculating aircraft weight, checking in customers, and phone systems in our call centers," United Airlines said in a statement. "After pausing all departures overnight, flights resumed on Friday morning and we are working diligently to get our customers to their destinations."

Story continues below.

Are flights still grounded? How long will flight delays last?

"Ground stops and delays will be intermittent at various airports as the airlines work through residual technology issues," the FAA said, adding that it's working closely with airlines to resume normal operations.

Travelers are advised to contact their airlines and monitor the FAA's website for the latest information.

How to find the reason for flight delay

Customers can ask airlines why their flight is canceled or delayed, but the Department of Transportation confirmed that it considers the delays and cancellations caused by Friday's IT outage to be "controllable" by the airlines. While airlines may say they didn't cause the computer error, it means that the DOT will hold them responsible for upholding the commitments they've made to customers when it comes to policies like rebooking or hotel and meal vouchers as the mess gets sorted out. Every airline's policy is outlined on the DOT customer service dashboard.  

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics also tracks causes of delays and cancellations.

Airline waivers

Airlines are doing what they can to provide extra flexibility to those affected by the outage.

• American issued a waiver for affected travelers covering all of its U.S. hubs.
• Delta issued a waiver allowing all passengers traveling Friday to rebook their flights.
• Frontier issued a waiver offering rebooking for travelers whose flights were delayed by more than 3 hours. Customers whose flights were canceled may opt for a refund or credit toward future travel.
• United issued a waiver for select airports so passengers can make changes if their flights are affected, though a United spokesperson told USA TODAY that nearly all of the airline's flights depart or arrive in one of the airports covered by the waiver.
• Spirit issued a waiver allowing customers who are booked to fly Friday or Saturday through any airport in its network to change their flights at no additional charge.

What happens if my flight is canceled?

Department of Transportation rules  require all airlines to offer customers a refund if their flights are canceled for any reason, but customers may be entitled to additional compensation if a cancellation is within the airline's control.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

If your flight is experiencing a long delay, the Transportation Department suggests asking airline staff if they will pay for meals or a hotel room.

The DOT dashboard reflects airlines' official policies, but many carriers handle compensation for delays on a case-by-case basis and may provide vouchers or other benefits in some situations that are not formally covered.

What is considered a significant flight delay?

Each airline defines significant delays differently, but the DOT's dashboard identifies which airlines provide compensation for controllable delays of 3 or more hours.

For instance, all major U.S. carriers are supposed to provide a meal voucher for flights delayed by at least 3 hours for reasons within their control. Additionally, Alaska, JetBlue and Southwest offer credit or a travel voucher when a controllable delay "results in passenger waiting for 3 hours or more from the scheduled departure time," according to the dashboard.

How to file compensation for a delayed flight

Travelers seeking monetary compensation for delayed flights should file a claim with their respective airlines. Passengers seeking other types of compensation, like frequent flyer miles, may be able to request those through the airline's customer service.

Contributing: Andrew Mills, Joanna Plucinska and Lisa Barrington ; Reuters

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

• Prospective Cadets
• Faculty & Staff

Apply to West Point in 7 Steps

The application process for the United States Military Academy requires slightly more preparation than many other colleges, but following these 7 steps can help.

Follow the steps below to start and complete your West Point application. You can also download the application timeline for help meeting important deadlines. For common questions related to the application process, please visit our Admissions FAQ page . 

For assistance at any point during the application process, please contact your Regional Admissions Officer .

Step 1. Confirm Eligibility

Candidates must meet certain requirements specified by public law in order to be considered for admission to West Point. 

You must: 

• Be at least age 17, but not 23 or older, on July 1 of the year you enter West Point
• Be a U.S. Citizen (See Information for International Cadets for exceptions)
• Not be married
• Not be pregnant
• Not be legally responsible for child support

If you are a naturalized citizen, you must provide documentation.

Step 2. Apply Online

Start your application by opening an account on our Candidate Portal .  The application window opens February 1st of your junior year in high school.  To start an application you will need:

• Your birthday
• Your home address
• Your high school's address
• Your Congressional District

Applications are due January 31st of your senior year.

Step 3. Take College Entrance Exams

Test scores are required, and applicants may choose either the SAT or the ACT.

TIP: Take the tests as many times as you wish. There is no penalty for multiple attempts, and we will super-score your results, meaning we will consider your best performance in each category.

The West Point Admissions Committee remains committed to a holistic assessment of applicant credentials, which include reviews of academic achievement, academic aptitude, leadership experiences, physical fitness, and other unique attributes during the application process.

Step 4. Connect with our Field Force

West Point Field Force members are local volunteer Admissions representatives of the U.S. Military Academy. Field Force members are an invaluable resource when navigating the application process at West Point. Find your  Field Force representative  today! All applications must include an interview.    A Field Force representative will contact you to schedule the interview.

TIP:   Dress as you would for a job interview.

Step 5. Apply for a Nomination

A nomination is required to attend West Point. There are two types: Congressional (your Representative or one of your State’s Senators) and Service-Connected. 

Each Congressional Representative and Senator has their own requirements and deadlines for nomination applications, but all of them are due sometime in the fall.  As soon as you confirm you basic eligibility, you should check your Representative's and Senators' websites for their specific nomination timelines and requirements.

We strongly recommend that you apply to ALL possible nomination sources.  No single nomination path will guarantee your appointment to West Point.

Locate your  Congressional Representative  or  Senator .

Step 6. Get a Medical Examination

The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB) will provide the location and date of your exam. The DoDMERB website is useful to  Track Your Medical Status

Take your medical exam as soon as possible! It can take several months to get qualified. If you haven’t been scheduled by DoDMERB by the fall of your high school senior year, contact your regional Admissions Officer.

Step 7. Take the Candidate Fitness Assessment

Qualified Applicants will receive an email directing them to the CFA Testing Instructions . The CFA consists of six events:

• Basketball throw  (from a kneeling position)
• Cadence pull-ups  or  flexed-arm hang  (women's option)
• 40-yard shuttle run  (for time)
• Modified Sit-ups  (number completed in 2 minutes)
• Push-ups  (number completed in 2 minutes)
• 1-mile run (for time)

You should train for and practice the events prior to taking the examination.

I have completed the 7 steps. Now what?

Take a Closer Look at West Point

Schedule a Campus Visit

• Spend part of a day with a cadet
• Schedule an overnight visit
• Explore campus on our  360 Virtual Tour .
• Apply for Summer Leaders Experience to explore West Point from all angles.  

Explore the unique cadet experience

Learn more about what West Point has to offer

Track Your Candidate Application File to Completion

The best thing to do  is to closely manage your candidate file and complete requirements as early as possible:

• Check your West Point Application status frequently for notifications and updates on your application status. 
• Make sure you have uploaded all the required documents. 
• Review out the  USMA Application Timeline to help you meet deadlines.

Pay close attention to deadlines for both the application and your individual congressional nominations. It is your future – you need to own it!

Your candidate file must be complete by January 31st of the year you plan to enter.

Follow West Point Admissions

Additional resources  .

Resources for Current Soldiers

Resources for Athletes

Resources for International Cadets

Story of the Southernmost Point in Key West

The Southernmost Point  is marked by a large concrete buoy, painted in bold stripes of black, red, and yellow. This iconic buoy was erected  in 1983  and has since become one of the most photographed attractions in Key West. Its inscription proudly reads: “ Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A. 90 Miles to Cuba .” While Cuba is actually  about 94 miles away , the buoy’s proximity to this neighboring country adds a fascinating touch of international intrigue.

Historical Significance

The location of the Southernmost Point has been a significant marker for centuries.  Key West was discovered  by Spanish explorers in the  early 1500s , and the island quickly became a bustling port. The buoy stands near where a U.S. Naval Station was established in the  early 19th century, playing a crucial role in maritime navigation and defense. This historical context adds depth to the buoy’s significance, making it not just a tourist attraction but a symbol of American resilience and maritime heritage.

Vibrant Culture and Festivities

Visiting the Southernmost Point is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s an experience that encapsulates the lively spirit of Key West. The area around the buoy is a hub of activity, featuring street performers, artists, and musicians who infuse the location with a festive atmosphere. The vibrant culture of Key West is on full display here, making it a perfect spot to soak in the island’s unique charm.

A Must-Visit for Travelers

The Southernmost Point is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Key West. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy a beautiful view, the buoy offers something for everyone.  Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the buoy and share your adventure with friends and family – it’s a quintessential Key West experience!

Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive Early:  The buoy is a popular attraction, and lines can get long, especially during peak tourist season. Arriving early in the morning can help you avoid the crowds.
• Explore Nearby Attractions:  After visiting the buoy, take some time to explore nearby attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, and the lively Duval Street.
• Respect the Landmark:  Remember that the Southernmost Point buoy is a historic marker. Treat it with respect and preserve its beauty for future visitors.

The Southernmost Point in Key West is more than just a marker; it’s a gateway to the rich history and vibrant culture of this unique island.  With its captivating story, festive atmosphere, and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder that this landmark is a favorite among travelers.  Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another look, the Southernmost Point is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the southernmost tip of the continental United States.

ONLINE RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED AND CLOSE 1 HOUR BEFORE THE TOUR START TIME

WE DO NOT TAKE RESERVATIONS BY PHONE 

For general information regarding West Point, contact Public Affairs at 845-938-2638

Group Tours of West Point

Group visits to West Point offer a great experience for all ages and interests. Review the tours below then submit the request form to plan your visit to maximize your enjoyment of West Point’s unique place in America’s history and its continuing role in preparing leaders for America’s future. 

Step on Guide Services

All Group tour requests on a private bus must be submitted via the tour request form below and no less than 10 business days in advance of the tour date.  Manifests must be received a minimum of 10 business days in advance of the tour date and only on the form we will share in the reservation confirmation email.   

We do not provide a step on guide for private cars or vans.

• All tours originate and end at the Visitor’s Center. Any request for a pick up/drop off on West Point must first be approved via our office and will incur an additional charge.
• Tours can begin at 9:15am and must be off the grounds of West Point by 5PM.
• To urs are conducted in English. Groups may provide their own translator. 
• The row behind the driver, both seats, must be empty for our guide and the passengers on board can not exceed the bus capacity.
• All guests are required to remain seated while on the bus and chaperones must sit with their group of students.
• There are no restrooms or rest stops on tours.
• West Point Tours does not coordinate lunches.
• Deposits are as noted in the descriptions below and are due at the time of the reservation request. 

 West Point Tours no longer conducts group tours of the museum. For information regarding the West Point Museum to include operating hours, procedures and protocols for school visits call: 845-938-3590. For general information regarding West Point contact Public Affairs at 845-938-2638.

We do not conduct tours on major holidays such as Christmas day, Thanksgiving day, New Years day, the Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday of graduation week usually the 3rd week of May, and Saturdays of home Army football games (please visit GoArmySports.com to check the schedule). While a rare instance, being an active duty army post tour times and access to venues within West Point are subject to change without notice. 

Expand the tour names below for full descriptions and costs.

Group Tours

• Chevron down The West Point Story - Click here to learn more

Our guide boards your bus for a 90 minute combined bus and walking tour which tells the story of West Point, its role in the Revolution, its famous history, along with stories of graduates who helped shape our nation. The tour will bring the history of the Long Gray Line to the present as you learn of the cadet experience and West Point’s continuing role in training the leaders of tomorrow. This tour of West Point makes stops at Cadet Chapel, the Plain which is the Cadet academic area, and Trophy Point with the million-dollar view overlooking the Hudson River.

Tours may begin at 9:15am and must conclude by 5:00pm. You are off the bus at various stops for approximately 1.25 hours. Easy walking. We encourage guests to take measures to protect themselves from the elements and to wear appropriate footwear.  While a rare occasion, the Cadet Chapel may be closed to visitors with no advance notice. 

Pricing below is for a step-on guide on your vehicle. Over 25 guests, the flat rate does not apply, and every guest pays the price per guest amount as noted below.

For multiple bus groups, each bus priced individually based on the average number of guests.  deposits are per the number of buses you’re arriving on or are reserving from us., a $50 deposit is required per guide at the time of the reservation.   .

  The fee does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide.

Not arriving on your own bus? West Point charter services offer 23, 49 and 55 seat motor coaches and school buses .

Prices below show the cost of the bus for the campus portion of the tour only beginning and ending at the visitors center and do not include the step on guide cost listed above.  add the bus price to the tour price above for the total cost..

Looking for our bus to pick or drop your group off at your starting or ending location other than West Point? Contact 845-561-2671 to receive a quote from our charter department.

Mid Week Pricing (Monday-Wednesday)

The fee does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide and/or driver.

Weekend  Pricing (Thursday – Sunday)

  The fee does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide and/or driver.

School Bus Services

Looking for a more economical solution to transport your group?  West Point Tours, Inc. offers school bus rental.  School bus prices are for the  bus only  and do not include the tour price. Add the school bus price to the tour price above for the total cost.  

• Chevron down History and Tradition - Click here to learn more

Our guide boards your bus for a 2-hour tour which includes all the sites you see on the 90 minute West Point Story tour. The additional time includes a tour of the West Point Cemetery and Old Cadet Chapel, built-in 1837. This tour delves into the lives and contributions of some of the US Military’s and West Point’s most notable figures laid to rest on this hallowed ground.

 Tours may begin at 9:15am and must conclude by 5:00pm. ​  You are off the bus at various stops for approximately 1.5 hours. Most are outdoors and pathways may be unpaved and the ground uneven.  We encourage guests to bring a water bottle and take measures to protect themselves from the elements and to wear appropriate footwear.  This tour is season April-November but can be offered to a group for a private tour during the year barring any poor weather or ground conditions.  While a rare occasion, the Cadet Chapel, Old Cadet Chapel, or the cemetery may be closed to visitors with no advance notice. 

A $50 DEPOSIT IS REQUIRED PER GUIDE AT THE TIME OF THE RESERVATION. 

• Chevron down The Principles of Leadership - Click here to learn more

The United States Military Academy at West Point is renowned for its focus on teaching and training the leadership skills needed for a career in the United States Army. As you tour the campus, our guide will illustrate those principles using examples drawn from the many famous graduates who have applied them in their military career as well as in their civilian corporate life beyond the military. While this tour does cover some of the history of West Point, it is geared toward helping organizations understand the leadership principles of West Point and how they can incorporate them into their own leadership styles.  This tour is specifically for corporations, universities, and military groups and for groups of 10 or more.

Tours may begin at 9:15am and must conclude by 5:00pm. ​  You are off the bus at various stops for approximately 1.5 hours.  We encourage guests to take measures to protect themselves from the elements and to wear appropriate footwear. While a rare occasion, the Cadet Chapel may be closed to visitors with no advance notice. 

For multiple bus groups, each bus priced individually. 

For multiple bus groups, each bus priced individually. The manifest (list of names) must be submitted and final pricing will be based on the number of people on the bus and listed on the manifest when you arrive for your tour.

Not arriving on your own bus?  West Point charter services offer 23, 49 and 55 seat motor coaches and school buses .

• Chevron down The West Point Story (Up to 90 minutes) - Click here to learn more

Our guide boards your vehicle for a combined bus and walking tour which tells the story of West Point, its role in the Revolution, its famous history, along with stories of graduates who helped shape our nation. The tour will bring the history of the Long Gray Line to the present as you learn of the cadet experience and West Point’s continuing role in training the leaders of tomorrow. This tour of West Point makes stops at Cadet Chapel, the Plain which is the Cadet academic area, and Trophy Point with the million-dollar view overlooking the Hudson River.

Cadet Chapel may be closed to visitors with no advance notice. You are off the bus for approximately 1 hour. Easy walking. Tours may begin after 9:00 AM and must conclude by 5:00 PM.

For multiple bus groups, each bus priced individually based on the average number of guests. Deposits are per the number of buses you’re arriving on or are reserving from us.

Pricing below is for a step-on guide on your vehicle. Over 25 guests, the flat rate does not apply and every guest pays the price per guest amount as noted below. All tours originate and end at the Visitors Center. A pick up/drop off anywhere on West Point other than the Visitors Center first must be approved and will incur an additional charge.

Motor Coach Services

West Point Tours offers quality coaches and school buses for your tour. Prices shown cover the use of the bus for the campus portion of the tour only. The museum portion of the tour does not require the use of the bus. Additional time with the vehicle or a pick up/drop off anywhere other than the Visitor Center may incur an additional charge.

We offer  23, 49 and 55 seat motorcoaches and economical school buses . Motor coach prices are for the  bus only  and do not include the tour price. Add the coach price to the tour price above for the total cost.

The fee does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide.

• Chevron down History and Tradition (2 hours) - Click here to learn more

Our 2-hour tour includes all the sites you see on the one hour and 15-minute West Point Story tour. The additional time includes a tour of the West Point Cemetery and Old Cadet Chapel, built-in 1837. This tour delves into the lives and contributions of some of the US Military’s and West Point’s most notable figures laid to rest on this hallowed ground. Learn more about George Custer, Ed White II, George Goethals, David “Mickey” Marcus, Norman Schwarzkopf, Sylvanus Thayer, and many more.

​This tour requires moderate walking and visitors spend approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes off the bus at the various stops, most of which are outdoors. Some pathways may be unpaved and the ground uneven. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. We encourage guests to bring water and take measures to protect themselves from the elements. This tour is seasonal Apr-Nov but can be offered to a group and private tour any time during the year barring any poor weather or ground conditions. While a rare occasion, this tour can be redirected due to an unforeseen funeral or ceremony.

Tours may begin after 9:00 AM and must conclude by 5:00 PM.

For multiple bus groups, each bus priced individually based on the average number of guests. Deposits are per the number of buses you’re arriving on or are reserving from us. 

Pricing below is for a step-on guide on your vehicle. Over 25 guests, the flat rate does not apply, and every guest pays the price per guest amount as noted below. A pick up/drop off anywhere other than the Visitors Center first must be approved and will incur an additional charge.

Motorcoach services, we offer  23, 49 and 55 seat motorcoaches and economical school buses . prices shown cover the use of the bus for the campus portion of the tour only beginning and ending at the visitors center and do not include the step on guide cost listed above.  add the coach price to the tour price above for the total cost..

The United States Military Academy at West Point is renowned for its focus on teaching and training the leadership skills needed for a career in the United States Army. As we tour the campus our guide will illustrate those principles using examples drawn from the many famous graduates who have applied them in their career and life beyond the military. The tour will cover the history and tradition of West Point with stops at the Main Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, Battle Monument, and the Plain.

Call our office to schedule your tour  845-446-4724  

Tours are conducted in English. Tours may begin after 9:00 AM and must conclude by 5:00 PM

Prices are shown cover the time for the tour indicated. Tours originate and end at the Visitors Center.

Pricing below is for a step-on guide on your vehicle. Over 25 guests, the flat rate does not apply, and every guest pays the price per guest amount as noted below. All tours originate and end at the Visitors Center. A pick up/drop off anywhere on West point other than the Visitors Center first must be approved and will incur an additional charge.

For multiple bus groups, each bus priced individually based on the average/bus. Deposits are per the number of buses you’re arriving on or are reserving from us. 

The manifest (list of names) must be submitted and final pricing will be based on the number of people on the bus and listed on the manifest when you arrive for your tour.

We offer  23, 49 and 55 seat motorcoaches and economical school buses . Motorcoach prices are for the bus only  and do not include the tour price. Add the coach price to the tour price above for the total cost.

• Chevron down The West Point Experience (2.5 hours) currently not offering museum tours

This tour combines the West Point Story 90 minute tour with a 1 hour guided tour of the West Point Museum, our nation’s oldest federal museum.  Your group will visit galleries expanding on the wide contribution of both West Point and the U.S. Army to the development of our country.

You are off the bus approximately 2 hours.  Moderate walking with stairs in the museum. Tours may begin after 9:00 AM and must conclude by 5:00 PM.

For multiple bus groups, each bus priced individually.

Pricing is for a step on guide on your vehicle. Over 25 guests, the flat rate does not apply, and every guest pays the price per guest amount as noted below. All tours originate and end at the Visitors Center. A pick up/drop off anywhere on West point other than the Visitors Center first must be approved and will incur an additional charge.

We offer  23, 49 and 55 seat motorcoaches and economical school buses . motorcoach prices are for the bus only and do not include the tour price. add the coach price to the tour price above for the total cost., bus used for tour portion only, mid week pricing (monday-wednesday) .

• Chevron down The Long Gray Line (3 hours) currently not offering museum tours

This tour combines the History and Tradition 2 Hour Tour with a 1 hour guided tour of the West Point Museum, our nation’s oldest federal museum.  Your group will visit galleries expanding on the wide contribution of both West Point the and U.S. Army to the development of our country

School And Scout Groups

Create a rich educational experience for your students or scouts with a tour of historic West Point. Please review the criteria below as well as the tour options that include descriptions, lengths, and costs. Submit the tour request form on this page when you are ready to book your groups experience.

To qualify for this rate you must be a scout or school sponsored trip in 5th-12th grade booking directly via the school or scout group and visiting between September 5th and June 25th. Minimum group size is 20 guests with three quarters of your group within a similar grade level.

5th-8th grade must provide 1 Chaperone for every 8 students; 9th-12th grade must provide 1 Chaperone for every 10 students. The driver and our guide do not count as chaperones. The row behind the driver, both seats, must be empty for our guide and the passengers on board can not exceed the bus capacity. All guests are required to remain seated while on the bus. 

All tour requests will require a $50 deposit or purchase order in order to receive a reservation confirmation.

Post Tour 90 minutes

Suitable for 5th grade and up

A combined bus and walking tour with our guide on your bus which tells the story of West Point, its role in the Revolution, its famous history, along with stories about graduates who shaped our nation.  The tour will bring the Long Gray Line to the present as you learn of the cadet experience and West Point’s continuing role in training the leaders of tomorrow.

This tour makes stops at Trophy Point overlooking the Hudson River and the Plain.  Your students will walk through history as they view canons, mortars, and monuments from the ‘Wars that shaped our Nation’ and were actually used during the Revolutionary war, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War.  Time allotted, a special stop can be made by the Great Chain, which was stretched across the Hudson as a a defensive measure during the Revolutionary war.  At the Plain, hear the history of such graduates as Douglas MacArthur, Dwight Eisenhower, and George S. Patton, as well as how the West Point Experience shapes future leaders. This tour also typically includes the main Cadet Chapel where students can view beautiful stained glass windows, the largest pipe organ in a religious facility in the world, and more in this beautiful gothic cathedral and drives by Blaik Field at Michie Stadium and Holleder Center, the Air Flight Memorials, and the American Soldier Statue.

This tour is offered year-round and requires light to moderate walking. The majority of the tour is off the bus. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. We encourage guests to bring water and take measures to protect themselves from the elements. All venues or roads are subject to closure at the Academy’s discretion with little to no notice.

$320 per step-on guide on your bus  Price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

Not arriving on your own bus? You can charter a bus from West Point Tours! Prices below show the cost of the bus for the on campus portion of the tour only, beginning and ending at the Visitors Center and do not include the step on guide cost listed above. Add the bus price to the tour price.

Looking for our bus to transport your group to and from your starting location and West Point? Contact 845-561-2671 for a quote from our charter department and inform then you are also booking a tour.

Post Tour with West Point Cemetery 2 hours

Suitable for 6th grade and up

Our 2 hour tour includes all the sites you see on the one hour and 15 minute tour. The additional time includes a tour of the West Point Cemetery and Old Cadet Chapel, built in 1837. This tour delves into the lives and contributions of some of the US Military’s and West Point’s most notable figures laid to rest on this hallowed ground.

​This tour requires moderate walking and visitors spend ​approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes off the bus at the various stops, most of which is outdoors. Some pathways may be unpaved and the ground uneven. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. We encourage guests to bring water and take measures to protect themselves from the elements. This tour is seasonal. It is offered weekends only from April to May and daily from Memorial Day to October. In November, it is offered weekends only as well as Veterans Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving.​ While a rare occasion, this tour can be re-directed due to an unforeseen funeral, ceremony or road closures.​

$400 per step-on guide on your bus Price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give your guide. 

• Chevron down The Revolutionary War - Click here to learn more

The Revolutionary War Tour  2 hours

Suitable for 5th-8th grade.

West Point played a pivotal role in the war of American Independence. The tour focuses on this exciting chapter in West Point’s history.  Students are selected to role play (in advance) important figures such as George Washington, Molly Corbin, Benedict Arnold and others. The tour is designed to both inform and stimulate discussion. Although focused on the Revolution, this tour will also explain the broader role of West Point in the history of our country, how it selects cadets and what the cadet experience is like.

This tour requires light to moderate walking. The majority of the tour is off the bus. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. We encourage guests to bring water and take measures to protect themselves from the elements. All venues or roads are subject to closure at the Academy’s discretion with little to no notice.

$420 per step-on guide on your bus – 2 hour tour The price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

• Chevron down The Youth Leadership Tour - Click here to learn more

The  School & Scout Leadership Tour  2 hours

Leadership development is the key component of the Academy’s mission in preparing officers to serve in the United States Army.  Recommended for 13-18 year olds in Scouts, Junior ROTC, service clubs, and sports teams, this tour will present an overview of the leadership principles and activities which cadet’s experience over 4 years.

The tour is designed to invite participants to identify similar ideas in their experiences and will offer real life examples of the importance of character, teamwork, service and good citizenship.   In addition all the West Point highlights and history will be covered such as Trophy Point overlooking the Hudson River, the parade grounds and Cadet Area, and the Cadet Chapel.

$450 per step-on guide on your bus 2-hour tour  The price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

This tour makes stops at Trophy Point overlooking the Hudson River and the Plain.  Your students will walk through history as they view canons, mortars, and monuments from the ‘Wars that shaped our Nation’ and were actually used during the Revolutionary war, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War.  Time allotted, a special stop can be made by the Great Chain, which was stretched across the Hudson as a a defensive measure during the Revolutionary war.  At the Plain, hear the history of such graduates as Douglas MacArthur, Dwight Eisenhower, and George S. Patton, as well as how the West Point Experience shapes future leaders. This tour also typically includes the main Cadet Chapel where students can view beautiful stained glass windows, the largest pipe organ in a religious facility in the world, and more in this beautiful gothic cathedral.  This tour also drives by Blaik Field at Michie Stadium and Holleder Center, the Air Flight Memorials, and the American Soldier Statue.

$250 per step-on guide on your bus Price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

Our 2 hour tour includes all the sites you see on the one hour and 15 minute tour. The additional time includes a tour of the West Point Cemetery and Old Cadet Chapel, built in 1837. This tour delves into the lives and contributions of some of the US Military’s and West Point’s most notable figures laid to rest on this hallowed ground. Learn more about George Custer, Ed White II, George Goethals, David “Mickey” Marcus, Norman Schwarzkopf, Sylvanus Thayer, and many more. ​

​This tour requires moderate walking and visitors spend a​pproximately 1 hour and 20 minutes off the bus at the various stops, most of which is outdoors. Some pathways may be unpaved and the ground uneven. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. We encourage guests to bring water and take measures to protect themselves from the elements. This tour is seasonal. It is offered weekends only from April to May and daily from Memorial Day to October. In November, it is offered weekends only as well as Veterans Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving.​ While a rare occasion, this tour can be re-directed due to an unforeseen funeral or ceremony.​

$300 per step-on guide on your bus Price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give your guide. 

West Point played a pivotal role in the war of American Independence. The tour focuses on this exciting chapter in West Point’s history.  Students are selected to role play (in advance) important figures such as George Washington, Molly Corbin, Benedict Arnold and others. The tour is designed to both inform and stimulate discussion. Although focused on the Revolution, this tour will also explain the broader role of West Point in the history of our country, how it selects cadets and what the cadet experience is like.   The majority of the tour is off the bus.

$325 per step-on guide on your bus – 2 hour tour The price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

$350 per step-on guide on your bus 2-hour tour The price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

• Chevron down The West Point Experience-currently not offering museum tours

Post Tour with Museum 2.5 hours

This tour is ideal for school & scout groups combining the 1.5 hour tour of the Academy grounds with a 1 hour guided tour of the West Point Museum. Accompanied by our knowledgeable guides, in the museum your class will be divided into smaller groups and visit each of the galleries tying-in the museum visit with the story of West Point and your curriculum, if applicable.

$330 per step-on guide on your bus  The price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

• Chevron down The Long Gray Line-currently not offering museum tours

Choose the Stops 3 hours

This tour combines the History and Tradition 2 Hour Tour with a 1 hour guided tour of the West Point Museum, our nation’s oldest federal museum.  Your group will visit galleries expanding on the wide contribution of both West Point the and U.S. Army to the development of our country.

$360 per step-on guide on your bus

Price does not include any gratuity you may wish to give the guide. 

Group Tour and Lunch Packages - currently packages are not being offered

For groups of 30 or more, West Point Tours can arrange for your lunch on the grounds of West Point or at a local Highland Falls restaurant. Presented on this page are lunch options as well suggestions of some other activities to round out your day in the Hudson Valley. West Point Tours can make all the arrangements.

• Chevron down Thayer Hotel

Situated on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River your group will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. The historic Thayer Hotel, located on the grounds of West Point, has been a national treasure since opening in 1926. Sunday Brunch prices are available on request. Group minimum 30.

Prices below reflect the tour with lunch at the Thayer Hotel as well as prices including an added excursion. 

• Chevron down West Point Club
• Chevron down The Park Restaurant
• Chevron down Cruises, Boscobel House & Gardens and Brotherhood Winery

Enjoy a 2 hour narrated Hudson River Cruise. Cruises depart from Newburgh NY which is about 25 minutes north of West Point. There are 2 boats which offer group cruises. Group Minimum of 30 Pride of the Hudson – The Pride of the Hudson is a yacht style cruise which offers a 2:30 sailing on Thursdays, May through October. It offers both spacious open air sundeck seating as well as a climate controlled interior salon with wrap around windows. Other days and times on request. River Rose – The River Rose is an authentic stern driven Mississippi paddle wheeler. Enjoy the views on the river from an ample sun deck or equally spacious interior level. Sailings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 2:00. Other days and times on request.

Boscobel House & Gardens

This magnificent neoclassical mansion built between 1804-1808 houses one of the finest collections of decorative arts from the Federal period. Located on 68 acres overlooking the Hudson River Valley and West Point the grounds and gardens offer some of the best views in the Hudson Highlands.

Brotherhood Winery

Brotherhood Winery is America’s oldest winery, established in 1837. The tour through the underground cellars culminates in a tasting of some of Brotherhood’s award winning wines.

Please submit the request form below to begin creating your unique West Point experience. If requesting a lunch package please include preferences in the additional comment box. 

West Point Military Security Requirements For Groups

West Point is an active duty military post. All guests are required to submit accurate ID information on the manifest we will provide, produce the same ID on the day of the tour (no photocopies accepted, no exceptions), and are subject to a West Point security background check.

• NCIC-III contains criminal arrest information about the individual that causes the senior commander to determine that the person presents a threat to the good order, discipline, or health and safety of the installation.
• A claimed identify that cannot be verified based on the reasonable belief that the person submitted fraudulent identity information in the attempt to gain access.
• Current arrest warrant in NCIC, regardless of the offense or violation.
• Current bar from entry or access to a Federal installation or facility.
• Conviction of crimes encompassing sexual assault, armed robbery, rape, child molestation, production or possession of child pornography, trafficking in humans, or drug possession with intent to sell or distribute.
• Conviction for espionage, sabotage, sedition, treason, terrorism, or murder.
• Being a registered sex offender.
• Felony conviction within the last ten years regardless of the offense or violation.
• Felony conviction for a firearms or explosives violation regardless of when the conviction occurred.
• Engaged in acts or activities designed to overthrow the U.S. Government by force.
• Been identified in the NCIC KST file or TSDB report as known to be, or is suspected of being, a terrorist or belonging to an organization with known links to terrorism or support of terrorist activity. Installation access control personnel will strictly follow the FBI’s published engagement protocols.
• Everyone over the age of 18 years old is required to bring government issued photo ID.  Drivers license, learner’s permit, DMV ID, or passport. Students between 16-18 years of age may bring high school photo ID. Original documents only, NO PHOTO COPIES.
• Foreign visitors of ALL ages must have their passports. Original documents only, NO PHOTO COPIES and if required, a non-expired visa.
• Each group must send in the completed manifest we provide at the time of the reservation no less than 10 business days prior to the tour completed with the names, dates of birth, gender, type of ID (State for DL Country for Passport). If information is found to be inaccurate during the background check the guest will be denied riding the tour until visiting the security desk in the visitor center to complete another background check. Please arrive 60-90 minutes in advance of your tour if you are concerned with this. Click here  to download form.   Click here if you need further instructions to complete the manifest.

Being an active duty army post tour times and access to venues within West Point are subject to change without notice.

Days of Operation

Tours operate daily except for:

The Saturdays of Army home football games

Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day

During Graduation Week on May 19, 22, & 23

Hours of Operation

Tours can start after 9:00 AM.

All tours must end by 5:00 PM daily.

Live updates: Major global IT outage grounds flights, hits banks and businesses around the world

What we know.

• A major global IT outage industries across the world today with airlines, banks, shops and broadcasters affected.
• Major U.S. airlines grounded flights and there were global delays. United, American and Delta ordered a "global ground stop," said Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., a member of the House subcommittee on cybersecurity.
• Microsoft said it had fixed the issue , but problems still persist and blue error screens are appearing on public screens across the U.S. and beyond. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, in a statement Friday afternoon, said, “CrowdStrike released an update that began impacting IT systems globally."
• Texas-based Cybersecurity company CrowdStrike said the problem stemmed from a "defect found in a single content update for Windows."
• Alaska State Troopers said that 911 services were down across the state.

Senator asks Defense Department for briefing on widespread IT outage

Raquel Coronell Uribe

Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., sent a letter to the acting chief information officer of the Defense Department on Friday, requesting a briefing by July 26 on the IT issue causing widespread disruptions across the U.S.

“A single point of failure in a cybersecurity strategy has proven time and time again to be a threat to our national security,” Schmitt wrote.

Schmitt called for a re-examination of cyber safeguards “across the board.”

A Defense Department spokesperson said it was aware of the issues and that personnel were monitoring their networks for possible impacts.

“For operational security reasons, we do not comment on the status of our network operations, information systems or operations to assess cyber threats,” the statement read.

Schmitt had written a previous letter in June pressing the department for a strategy to ensure “robust cybersecurity practices.”

CrowdStrike on call headed into the weekend, warns of impostors

Kevin Collier

CrowdStrike has mobilized employees to help customers still affected by the glitch, CEO George Kurtz said in a blog post this afternoon.

“Nothing is more important to me than the trust and confidence that our customers and partners have put into CrowdStrike. As we resolve this incident, you have my commitment to provide full transparency on how this occurred and steps we’re taking to prevent anything like this from happening again,” Kurtz said.

He echoed CISA’s warning of hackers and scammers trying to exploit confusion over how to fix computers that froze due to the update.

“We know that adversaries and bad actors will try to exploit events like this. I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and ensure that you’re engaging with official CrowdStrike representatives,” Kurtz said.

Hospital surgery delays add to anxiety

Marina Kopf

Gary Baulos, 73, was scheduled for open-heart surgery today at Baptist Health hospital in Paducah, Kentucky. His daughter Alison Baulos said the surgery to clear eight blockages and repair an aneurysm was canceled due to the global technology outages.

“It reshuffles everything and leaves us with a lot of anxiety and uncertainty,” she said.

Alison said his father's surgery has not been rescheduled yet, but hopes it can be done on Monday.

“It’s kind of scary knowing that your loved one has this significant issue that warranted getting in right away,” she said. “And now you have to wait the weekend.”

In a statement to NBC News, Baptist Health said they’re “experiencing disruptions tied to the global CrowdStrike incident” and “have canceled some non-emergency procedures while we work to resolve the issue.”

Just 23% of all U.S. flights departing on time as of this afternoon

The nightmare scenario that began unfolding this morning at U.S. airports continued well into the afternoon, with less than a quarter of all domestic flights departing on time as of 4 p.m., according to real-time data from Anuvu, an aviation intelligence group.

Most affected was Endeavor Airlines, a regional carrier based in Minnesota, with 40% of all its flights canceled and effectively zero departing on time, according to Anuvu data.

Among major carriers, all flights for Delta, Spirit and United airlines were seeing delays, the data showed.

While other airlines, like Frontier, JetBlue and Southwest, were not directly affected by the global outage, issues at affected airports still resulted in delays for some of those carriers' flights.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has been directing affected passengers to FlightRights.gov to learn about which airlines cover meals and hotels and provide free rebooking.

Tesla temporarily halts production at some facilities

Lora Kolodny, CNBC

Electric vehicle maker  Tesla  temporarily halted production on lines at some of its manufacturing facilities Friday after an unprecedented IT outage impacted global operations due to system issues at cybersecurity firm  CrowdStrike .

According to correspondence obtained by CNBC, Tesla’s IT teams notified employees that there was a “windows host outage,” and different systems were affected including “servers, laptops and manufacturing devices.” The IT teams informed Tesla employees that they may see a “ blue screen ” on their various devices.

Tesla CEO  Elon Musk , who also owns social media platform X, posted several complaints about the CrowdStrike outages to his account, which has more than 190 million followers, throughout the morning.

Two Tesla employees who spoke with CNBC, but asked to remain unnamed because they were not authorized to speak on behalf of the company, said that some manufacturing lines were slow to start on Friday morning, and others were temporarily halted in California and Nevada. They also said managers were telling some workers to prepare for canceled shifts or to go home early.

Business Insider , which first reported on the IT memo, wrote that workers in Tesla’s Texas vehicle assembly plant were sent home overnight in response to the outages as well.

As a key Tesla vendor,  Microsoft , scrambled to restore its apps and services Friday morning, CEO Satya Nadella wrote in a statement on X that an update from CrowdStrike on Thursday impacted global IT systems.

In replies to Nadella on X, Musk wrote that the outages had caused a “seizure” to the automotive supply chain, adding, “We just deleted CrowdStrike from all our systems, so no rollouts at all.” Employees confirmed that Tesla was using CrowdStrike as of Friday.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for further information.

Read more from CNBC

Starbucks baristas recovering from chaotic morning

Kat Tenbarge

With Starbucks' mobile order-ahead feature still unavailable , baristas have directed customers with handwritten signs to "plz come to walk-up."

A Starbucks barista in Washington, D.C., told CNBC that her store had to manually write out tickets for customers this morning, while an anonymous Starbucks supervisor posted "We are SUFFERING" on Reddit. "Mobile orders and deliveries were through the roof, drive thru was wrapped around the building and two accidents in our parking lot," the post continued.

Starbucks' foot traffic had returned to normal in three New York City locations NBC News visited on Friday afternoon. Four customers told NBC News they had no issues ordering in person. The chain continued ahead with a $3 drink deal between noon and 6 p.m.

At LAX, a line snakes out the door

Dana Griffin

Reporting from Los Angeles International Airport

People are pretty jovial at Los Angeles International Airport despite delays and cancellations that continue to snarl travel due to today's IT issues.

Some people said they had been waiting hours in an effort to change flights and find a way to their destination. The line to rebook for United Airlines is long, snaking out of the airport where United employees are handing out bottles of water.

Outage forces Texas and New York to close driver’s license offices

The Associated Press

AUSTIN, Texas — The internet outages forced Texas to close all of its driver’s license offices across the state, and New York’s Department of Motor Vehicles couldn’t process transactions online and in its offices Friday morning.

The Texas Department of Public Safety operates driver’s license offices in most of the state’s 254 counties. The agency issues, renews and updates driver licenses or state ID cards and provides driver education courses.

The department said in a statement that “there is no current estimate” on when the offices will reopen.

In New York, the DMV said that by Friday afternoon, some systems had been restored and that it could begin performing online transactions. However, some in-person services were still offline.

At least three of its DMV offices closed for the day because of the outage, according to the agency’s website.

Hackers are trying to exploit CrowdStrike-led outage, feds say

The widespread outages aren't the result of a cyberattack, but hackers are actively trying to capitalize on the confusion, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said.

“CISA has observed threat actors taking advantage of this incident for phishing and other malicious activity,” an agency alert says . 

“CISA urges organizations and individuals to remain vigilant and only follow instructions from legitimate sources. CISA recommends organizations to remind their employees to avoid clicking on phishing emails or suspicious links,” it said.

How could a security update cripple computers around the world?

JoElla Carman

The software that caused Friday's global IT outage was part of a routine update process.

Computers that received the faulty update now won’t operate without being started in a special recovery mode. That means each computer must be fixed manually.

Courts in Massachusetts and New York are disrupted by the outage

BOSTON — Courts in Massachusetts and New York saw their operations disrupted Friday by the global internet outage.

A spokesperson for the Massachusetts judiciary said about half of its workstations were down while court transcription recording systems were not operating in a number of courthouses, resulting in delays in some court sessions.

Some court proceedings were also delayed in New York because of computer problems.

In Manhattan, a criminal court proceeding for Harvey Weinstein, who is charged with rape, started 90 minutes late because of disruptions to court and corrections computer systems.

In Southern California, Orange County Superior Court also reported technical issues.

51 hospitals affected by global IT outage in the west

Lindsay Good

Mirna Alsharif

A total of 51 hospitals under the Providence Southern California umbrella have been affected by the global IT outage in western states, according to the health care organization.

"Providence, like other organizations across the world, is impacted by the Crowdstrike outage," the organization said in a statement. "Our IT teams have been working overnight to respond to the issue and have restored key functionality in the Epic electronic health record so that nurses, physicians and other caregivers can access patient records and perform clinical documentation."

The organization said "other clinical applications and workstations continue to be impacted" despite the progress, but didn't specify what the applications and workstations are.

"Patient safety and access to care is always the top priority at Providence," the health organization said. "We will provide updates as new information becomes available."

Some of Starbucks' features impacted by outage

Janelle Griffith

Starbucks said it was among the companies impacted by the outage, resulting in a temporary outage of its mobile order ahead and pay features.

“We continue to welcome and serve customers in the vast majority of our stores and drive-thrus and are doing everything we can to bring all systems online as quickly as possible,” said Jaci Anderson, the company’s director of communications. “We apologize for any inconvenience.”

Nearly 4,300 flights canceled worldwide due to global IT outage, per Cirium

Nearly 4,300 flights have been canceled worldwide as of 12 p.m. E.T. due to the global IT outage, according to Cirium.

This equates to 3.9% of all scheduled flights globally. The figure is subject to change as the day progresses, Cirium said.

Microsoft 365 says all of its previously impacted apps and services have recovered

Microsoft 365 says it has completed its mitigation actions and its telemetry indicates all previously impacted Microsoft 365 apps and services have recovered.

“We’re entering a period of monitoring to ensure impact is fully resolved,” the company said.

Maricopa County, Arizona, says early voting for primaries impacted

The Maricopa County Elections Department in Arizona said the global IT outage is impacting some voting locations, as early voting in statewide primaries rolls out.

In a statement posted to X , the department directed voters to a web page to find out which polling places remain unaffected by the incident.

Early primary voting has been open for Grand Canyon states since July 3; Arizona's official primary election is Tuesday, July 30.

The state-level primaries will have a significant impact on the balance of power in the U.S. Senate and House: Former gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake is squaring off against Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb for the opportunity to face Democrat Ruben Gallego to replace outgoing Sen. Kyrsten Sinema.

Meanwhile, six Republicans — including former Senate candidate Blake Masters, are vying to replace retiring Republican Debbie Lesko in the state's 8th Congressional District.

Surgeries and doctor’s appointments canceled amid global IT outage

Erika Edwards

Several major U.S. hospitals were forced to cancel surgeries and doctor’s appointments amid the  global computer outage .

Hospital staffers in New York and Boston said they were unable to access some medical records or were having trouble figuring out where to send critically ill patients as several operating rooms had been shut down.

“Every day, we have a plan that’s mapped out really carefully so that we can plan our resources,” said one employee of an affected New York City hospital system. “That’s all blown up,” the staffer said, asking to not be identified because the person wasn’t authorized to speak on behalf of the health care system.

Read the full story here.

Microsoft CEO makes first remarks on outage

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella released the company's first statement about the outage early Friday afternoon, saying: “CrowdStrike released an update that began impacting IT systems globally. We are aware of this issue and are working closely with CrowdStrike and across the industry to provide customers technical guidance and support to safely bring their systems back online.”

Just like in 2016, post GOP convention travel hit by major outage

Ben Kamisar

Journalists and Republicans leaving Milwaukee after this week's Republican National Convention may have a feeling of déjà vu if their travel plans are interrupted by this global outage.

It's the second in-person GOP convention in a row (2016 and 2024, since 2020 was largely virtual) that ended with a major transportation-related outage.

Southwest reported a "technology outage" on July 20, 2016 , the second to last day of the convention in Cleveland. The company ultimately said more than 2,000 flights were delayed or cancelled. But while the outage happened midweek, travelers were still feeling some effects of it days later and this reporter had to drive colleagues with cancelled flights home from Cleveland.

Tired travelers cope ... and drink

Kevin Breuninger, CNBC

Reporting from JFK International Airport in New York

Travelers stuck this morning at JFK Airport in New York met the delays with resignation, weariness and a need to hit the bar.

Colby Black, 45, took the delays in stride, even though he wasn’t sure when his rescheduled flight to Los Angeles would take off. It was originally set to depart at 6 a.m.

“I’m just tired. I want to sleep,” said Black, who woke up at 3 a.m. “But otherwise, yeah, it happens.”

One mother said she hadn’t slept the night before, just so she and her infant son could get to JFK on time.

“I’m still up, running on no sleep,” she said as she was seated on a barstool beside a heavy pour of chilled white wine. She wasn’t originally planning to order a preflight drink.

“Hell no. I got to the airport at 4 o'clock this morning,” she said.

Watch U.S. air traffic ebb and flow as IT issues rippled through system

Tom Costello

Video from the airline tracker Flightradar24 shows how U.S. air travel was scaled back dramatically in the early morning hours, as airlines and airports scrambled to deal with IT issues related to a security bug.

Microsoft’s ‘Blue Screen of Death’ makes a return to computers around the world

Elizabeth Chuck

An image that has instilled panic in computer users for decades popped up on screens worldwide today: the dreaded “Blue Screen of Death.”

Appearing everywhere from Macy’s flagship store in New York City to  airports in India , the Blue Screen of Death has long prompted groans and frantic questions of “Did my work save?” It’s a Microsoft Windows error screen indicative of a system crash — meaning a computer issue has resulted in the operating system no longer being able to run safely.

An unwanted sight that has become so widely known over its more than 30-year existence, it’s sometimes referred to by its acronym, BSoD. Today, the blue screen taunted millions globally amid a  widespread technology outage  that halted flights, knocked broadcasters off the air and disconnected some emergency phone lines. Texas-based cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike said early today that the outage was the result of a “defect found in a single content update for Windows hosts,” not a cyberattack, and that a fix had been deployed.

CrowdStrike CEO releases updated statement

Victoria Feng

CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz released an updated statement on X, assuring customers that this was not a "security or cyber incident," and that their information is still protected.

"We are working with all impacted customers to ensure that systems are back up and they can deliver the services their customers are counting on," Kurtz added.

He said that he would provide updates via his X account, LinkedIn and the CrowdStrike website.

Steve Kopack

The Federal Aviation Administration says it is aware of reports of a systems outage causing disruptions in service, including 911.

“We’re working closely with other federal agencies to provide assistance and determine the extent of these service disruptions,” the FAA said.

Airlines must take care of passengers impacted by global IT outage, Buttigieg says

Speaking on CNBC, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said he is “tracking all the various impacts hitting different forms of transportation.”

Buttigieg said the agency has reminded airlines as they deal with the outage of their “responsibilities to take care of passengers if they experience major delays.”

Buttigieg also said public transit systems are running normally despite the ongoing global IT outage, but some consumers might encounter websites that are down or ticketing systems with minor problems.

“This wasn’t a cyberattack,” he said but the agency will continue to work with infrastructure and transportation providers to ensure they properly maintain their cyber defenses.

Chicago Department of Aviation monitoring global IT outage

The Chicago Department of Aviation is monitoring the global IT outage that has impacted air travel nationwide, it said in a statement.

"CDA officials are working diligently with federal and airline partners at both O’Hare and Midway International Airports to restore operations as swiftly as possible," the department said. "The CDA is committed to providing all necessary assistance to our passengers during this time."

The CDA encouraged anyone flying out of Chicago airports today to check their flight status before making the trip to the airport. 

Long lines but 'a snowball's chance' in Atlanta's airport

Charlie Gile

Reporting from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

The ticketing line at Spirit Airlines in Atlanta is hundreds of people long as travelers try to get information about flights. 

One traveler near the front says she waited for over four hours. Employees calling out specific flight numbers had to shout over the crowd to be heard. When asked if she was confident about leaving Atlanta today, one woman in line said, “A snowball’s chance.”

Orange County Fire Authority says its responses to emergencies were uninterrupted

The Orange County Fire Authority in California said the outage had temporarily affected some of its internal systems, but that its responses to emergency incidents were uninterrupted, and its 78 fire stations did not experience any delays in service.

“Our IT team continues to monitor the situation,” the fire authority said.

What we know about the global Microsoft outage

Alexander Smith

A routine software update caused  cascading chaos today that has engulfed global businesses from airports and banks to retail and law enforcement.

It wasn’t a cyberattack, but was caused by one of the world’s largest cybersecurity companies deploying a flawed update while trying to keep its customers safe from hackers.

CrowdStrike, a  cybersecurity company  based in Austin, Texas, that’s widely used by businesses and government agencies that run on Microsoft computers, said that a defect in one of its updates for computers running the Windows operating system had caused the issue. The result was arguably the largest global information technology outage in history. 

Fed says critical systems 'operating normally'

Leslie Picker, CNBC

The Federal Reserve is out with an assurance that its systems are working amid the global tech outage.

“Critical Federal Reserve Systems are operating normally. We are monitoring the situation and working closely with industry and other government agencies to assess the situation,” the central bank said in a statement to CNBC.

RNC attendees look for a way out of Milwaukee

Freddie Tunnard

Reporting from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport

Hello from the Milwaukee Airport, which is a mix of politicians, red hats and police officers.

Some officers from North Carolina seem to have been here for a while — one of them is sleeping on the floor. One of the airlines just announced that it is bringing out a snack cart.  

It’s crowded but quiet here, and the general vibe I would say is pretty tired — I would imagine most of these people were up past midnight watching former President Donald Trump’s speech. Most of the seats at the gates are occupied (as is a lot of the floor) with weary travelers.

FlightAware, which tracks airline operations, said this morning that 40 flights had been canceled, with another 65 delayed.

FedEx experiencing 'substantial disruptions'

FedEx says it has experienced “substantial disruptions” throughout its networks due to the global IT outage .

The company said contingency plans have been activated to mitigate impact, but delays are possible for packages that have a delivery commitment of today.

FedEx advised customers to check its service alerts page for updates and to track shipments on its website, fedex.com.

Biden has been briefed on the CrowdStrike outage

A White House official said President Joe Biden has been briefed on the outage and his team is in touch with CrowdStrike and impacted entities. His team is engaged across the interagency to get sector by sector updates throughout the day, and is standing by to provide assistance, the official said.

The president was also briefed on the drone attack overnight in Tel Aviv.

Hospitals across the U.S. are canceling operations

Patrick Smith Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Hospitals and medical centers across the United States are turning patients away in the the wake of the global IT problems today.

The Harris Health Quentin Mease Health Center in Houston said it was canceling all elective procedures and outpatient care, while Mass General Brigham in Boston canceled "all previously scheduled non-urgent surgeries, procedures, and medical visits are cancelled today."

The Boston hospital said in a statement: "A major worldwide software outage has affected many of our systems at Mass General Brigham, as well as many major businesses across the country."

Mass General assured the public that "we continue to care for all patients currently receiving care in our hospitals."

The University of Miami Health System said its facilities were open but warned that there would be delays due to computers records being unavailable.

Meet CrowdStrike, the company at the heart of the global tech outage

Ryan Browne, CNBC

A fault with an update issued by cybersecurity company  CrowdStrike  led to a cascading effect among global IT systems today, with industries ranging from banking to airlines facing outages.

Banks and health care providers saw their services disrupted and TV broadcasters went offline as businesses worldwide grappled with the ongoing outage. Air travel has been hit hard, too, with  planes grounded  and services delayed.

So what happened, exactly? CNBC takes a look.

Read the full article here from CNBC .

Nigel Chiwaya

The IT outages that are affecting businesses across the world have caused more than half of flights delayed or canceled by 8 a.m. ET across the United States, according to data from FlightAware.

Photos: From Bangkok to Berlin, outages cause airport chaos

Max Butterworth

An airline employee holds up a sign informing travelers as they line up at the check-in counters of the Hong Kong International Airport this morning.

Crowds build up at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand.

An employee at Berlin Airport speaks tries to update passengers as widespread outages caused mass confusion.

CrowdStrike CEO apologizes but warns recovery 'could be some time'

Mithil Aggarwal

George Kurtz, president and CEO of CrowdStrike, the company at the center of today's enormous IT outages, says the problems could persist for some time yet.

"It could be some time for some systems that just automatically won’t recover," Kurtz told NBC's "TODAY" show this morning.

Kurtz said the company was "deeply sorry for the impact that we've caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected by this," adding the issue has been fixed on their end.

"Many of the customers are rebooting the system, and it’s coming up, and it’ll be operational because we fixed it on our end," he said. "We’re just trying to sort out where the negative interaction was," he said of the faulty update that affected Windows PCs.

Getting services back up and running won't be easy, experts warn

The Microsoft cloud computing outages that left airports, shops and broadcasters without services will not be easily fixed, tech experts have warned.

Fixing the issues may involve a manual effort on the part of users, Omer Grossman, CIO at cybersecurity firm CyberArk, told CNBC.

“It turns out that because the endpoints have crashed — the Blue Screen of Death — they cannot be updated remotely and this the problem must be solved manually, endpoint by endpoint. This is expected to be a process that will take days,” he said.

The global IT outage is having a “profound impact,” and nothing similar has ever been seen before, Satnam Narang, senior staff researcher at Tenable, told CNBC today.

“It’s very far reaching and we’re still just in the beginnings of this right now,” he said. Companies and organizations were trying to deal with the impact of the issues, as attempts were being made to resolve it, which would take time, according to Narang.

“We’ve never seen anything like this before, it’s very unprecedented.”

Morning commuters face disruption from IT outage

Commuters riding the bus and train services in New York will have to listen closely to station announcements after the MTA's systems were taken offline due to the outage.

The "train and bus service is unaffected," Metropolitan Transportation Authority said this morning in a statement.

Washington's transit agency, WMATA, said the train's start time of 5 a.m. was delayed and commuters could experience more delays on its buses and trains.

Early morning passengers faced with blue screens at Newark

Travelers walk past a departures board displaying a blue error screen in Newark International Airport this morning.

New Hampshire 911 services back online after outage

The New Hampshire Department of Safety said its 911 service was back online early today after an interruption related to the global outage of Microsoft cloud computing services that began around 1 a.m. ET.

"911 server system has been fully restored and emergency calls to 911 are being processed normally," the department's division of emergency services and communications said in an update, which confirmed the service was back as of 3 a.m.

It said the cause of the outage was under investigation but the department was "aware of information technology outages reported nationwide." The department also urged people not to see if 911 is working with "test calls."

Major computer outage could impact 911 services but ‘is not a cyberattack’

Brian Cheung

NBC News’ business and data correspondent Brian Cheung explains that CrowdStrike is deploying a fix that caused computer outages worldwide. He said people should not try calling 911 to test the system.

American passenger's flight from Japan canceled, lounge is full and baggage delayed

Reporting from Hong Kong

When Patricia Sweeney arrived at gate 133 of Tokyo's Haneda Airport, her American Airlines flight bound for New York was nowhere to be found. It was first delayed by an hour, then canceled.

"I'm upset but taking it in strides," said Sweeney, who lives in Brooklyn and works in finance and was on a business trip. Another American Airlines flight next to her gate was also canceled. "You could just hear a roar of the passengers," she said. "People are not happy."

As she waited for updates from the airline, Sweeney went to the business class lounge which was overcrowded with other affected passengers.

"I told the hotel I had stayed at to rebook a room. But they said they had a system outage," she said over the phone while waiting for her baggage. The hotel rebooked her manually.

While Sweeney was offered a flight for tomorrow morning by the airline, she said a representative later told her that it's still not confirmed.

Chaos for retail and banking worldwide

The outage happened while most stores in the United States were closed for the night. But it has been wreaking havoc elsewhere.

In Britain, grocery chain Waitrose put up signs in some of its outlets warning customers it was only accepting cash.

“All card-readers have failed this morning!” read a handwritten message in one branch in Petersfield, southern England “Sorry for any inconvenience caused!”

In Australia and New Zealand, scores of people posted on social media that they were locked out of their online bank accounts.

“We’re aware of issues currently impacting many banks and businesses across NZ,” the state-owned Kiwibank said on X, replying to a number of users reporting problems. “Our teams are working to resolve the access issues impacting our app and internet banking at the moment, and we hope to have this resolved shortly.”

CrowdStrike shares tank 15% in premarket after major outage hits businesses worldwide

Cybersecurity firm  CrowdStrike  saw its shares plunge today, after an update led to a major outage impacting businesses across the world.

Shares of the company, which makes software to help firms manage their security in IT environments, tanked 15% in U.S. premarket trading.

Microsoft , which also reported issues affecting its Azure cloud services and Microsoft 365 suite of apps, fell 2% in premarket trading.

NBC News special report on global outage failures

Watch the full special report on a massive global technical outage tied to CrowdStrike. This cybersecurity provider has knocked critical computer infrastructure offline nationwide and worldwide. 

Heath care providers report problems with patient services

Carlo Angerer

Reporting from MAINZ, Germany

A university hospital system in northern Germany has cancelled elective procedures and all outpatient services today due to the IT outage. University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, with its locations in Kiel and Lübeck, says its patient care and emergency services are not affected.

The British National Health Service said the outage was causing "disruption in the majority of GP practices," referring to the general practitioners who act as a first point of contact to access most health services in the U.K.

These family doctors can't access the appointment and patient record system, an NHS spokesperson said, adding that receptionists would be "using paper patient records and handwritten prescriptions,"

CrowdStrike CEO blames content update 'defect' for widespread outages

It was not a cyberattack but a faulty update, said George Kurtz, chief executive of CrowdStrike, the cybersecurity company being held responsible for today's tech outage.

"CrowdStrike is actively working with customers impacted by a defect found in a single content update for Windows hosts," he said.

"The issue has been identified, isolated and a fix has been deployed," added in a post on X. He said customers were impacted by a defective update that affected PCs running Microsoft's Windows operating system.

"This is not a security incident or cyberattack," he said.

"We further recommend organizations ensure they’re communicating with CrowdStrike representatives through official channels," Kurtz said, adding, "Our team is fully mobilized to ensure the security and stability of CrowdStrike customers."

Microsoft: Outages caused by 'storage incident' and Crowdstrike cybersecurity update

This morning's enormous tech outage was caused, in part, by a "storage incident" that impacted a number of Microsoft's Azure cloud services, which powers everything from banks to airport handling systems.

The issue has been mitigated, Microsoft said in a statement , but the company is still "in the process of validating recovery," of the affected services.

Microsoft said another issue is the "CrowdStrike Falcon agent," a cybersecurity platform used by businesses globally that is separate from Microsoft, that was causing the "blue screen of death," on PCs running the Windows operating system.

"We can confirm the affected update has been pulled by CrowdStrike," it said.

CrowdStrike said in a statement on Reddit , that its engineering team had reverted the software updates affecting the issue, and outlined a temporary technical workaround.

Blue Windows error screens seen everywhere from Macy's to LAX

Reporting from LONDON

The all-too-familiar Windows error screen — often dubbed the "blue screen of death" by some weary users — could seen on public screens across the United States this morning.

A big screen outside Macy's at Herald Square in New York showed the blue screen and a "Recovery" message, as did terminals at LAX Airport and Minneapolis- St. Paul Airport.

The blue screen curse struck across the world too, with social media users posting photos from London, New Delhi and Istanbul.

Major airports hit by widespread hourlong delays

Some of the world's busiest airports have been hit with average departure delays of more than an hour, data from the flight-tracking platform flightradar24 showed.

Amsterdam's Schipol Airport was experiencing average delays of 75 minutes, with 88% of its flights delayed today. Dozens of flights have been delayed with an average of nearly 50 minutes in both Barcelona and Rome.

Major airports in India, including in the capital city of New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai are topping charts with delays of up to an hour.

At one of the world’s busiest cargo hubs, Memphis International Airport in Tennessee, 97% flights have been delayed with average delay of an hour.

Airports affected worldwide, from Berlin to Hong Kong

Airports worldwide are advising passengers to arrive earlier for their flights as airlines scramble to check-in passengers manually.

"The affected airlines have switched to manual check-in to continue serving passengers," Hong Kong's airport authority said in a statement , adding it had activated its "emergency response mechanism."

India's New Delhi airport said "some of its services" had been impacted, while Germany's Berlin airport warned of check-in delays. Some airlines at Singapore's Changi airport are also checking-in passengers manually, the airport said in a post on X.

Delays were reported by two of Australia's biggest airports, in Sydney and Melbourne.

British broadcaster Sky News back on air after outage

The British broadcaster Sky News, NBC's partner in the U.K., was back on air early today after 9.30 a.m. (4.30 a.m. ET) after being taken offline by the ongoing issues related to Microsoft cloud services.

The broadcaster's business presenter, Ian King, said this morning was "the biggest IT outage the world has ever seen."

Local businesses affected in Australian capital, Canberra

A sign notifies customers of a temporary closure due to IT issues at a Liquor store in Canberra, Australia, today.

House cybersecurity member says airlines have ordered a "global ground stop"

Three major U.S. airlines, United, American and Delta, have all ordered global ground stops, according to a senior Democratic member of the House Cybersecurity Committee.

Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., said on X that the airlines had not issued statements to this effect so far and he urged them to do so.