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How To Visit the Statue of Liberty in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: October 29, 2023

Did you know that approximately 4 million people visit the Statue of Liberty every year? It can get pretty hectic but there are some ways around the crowds . In this guide, we’ll help you plan ahead! Here’s everything you need to know about how to visit the Statue of Liberty from how to get tickets, to the best tours, what to see, and more!

Pro Tip: Planning your trip to NYC? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our guide to New York City for more planning resources, our best NYC tours for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in NYC .

Visiting the Statue of Liberty: What We’ll Cover

The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States—a symbol of friendly alliance and appreciation. Over the years since the statue took its place on Liberty Island in 1886, many marveled at the sight of this iconic monument as they sought a better life and it came to represent something more—the promise of freedom and the possibility for their dreams to come true. As you prepare for your visit to the Statue of Liberty, here’s what you need to know:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• How to get there
• What to see at the Statue of Liberty
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of the Statue of Liberty
• Where to eat inside and nearby

Statue of Liberty Opening Hours and Tickets

The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island, so you’ll need to take a ferry to get there. When you purchase your ticket for the Statue of Liberty, it includes the ferry ride and access to the Ellis Island Museum. Here are the various ticket types:

Ticket Types:

Reserve Ticket : With this ticket, you have access to the grounds and audio guide. However, you cannot go inside the Statue of Liberty.

• Adult: $24.50
• Senior 62+: $18
• Child 4-12: $12
• Child 0-3: Free

Pedestal Reserve Ticket: You’ll get access to everything included in the Reserve ticket, plus access to the Fort Wood Section of the Pedestal.

• Adult: $24.80
• Senior 62+: $18.30
• Child 4-12: $12.30

Crown Reserve Ticket: You’ll get access to everything included in the Pedestal Reserve ticket, plus access to the Crown and Pedestal

There are two ports with departures to the Statue of Liberty. One is Battery Park in New York and the other is Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Statue City Cruises is the only authorized concessioner for ferries.

Battery Park Ferry Hours : 9:30 am – 3:30 pm, every 30 minutes

Planning a trip to see the Statue of Liberty in NYC? Skip the research and book a tour that will save you the guesswork. See our incredible tours and experiences including Lady Liberty.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  New York Guide for more resources.

How Long To Spend at the Statue of Liberty

Short Answer : 3 to 4 hours

When you purchase a ticket to see the Statue of Liberty, you’re actually buying three items: A ferry ride, Statue of Liberty Access, and Access to the Ellis Island Museum. Be sure to keep that in mind.

The Ferry Ride

You’ll start your adventure at either Battery Park in NYC or Liberty State Park across the bay in New Jersey. The ferry works like a hop-on, hop-off bus with stops at Liberty Island (where the Statue of Liberty is) and Ellis Island before returning to the port.

It takes around 15-20 minutes to arrive at each destination. So, there’s just enough time to enjoy some sea views without it being too long.

Liberty Island

Once you arrive at Liberty Island, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Statue of Liberty. Depending on the ticket you have (see above), you’ll either just walk around the island or climb up the statue itself.

I last visited the area in May of 2021 and I’d say if you are not climbing up, give yourself about 2 hours. Why so long? You’ll want to enjoy the views from the various vantage points.

There’s also a cool little museum to visit where you can see the original torch that Lady Liberty held. There’s an audioguide included in the ticket, but you know how that goes…listen for 5 minutes before you put it in your pocket. We recommend taking a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which will make your time more memorable and definitely elevate your experience.

Ellis Island

If you’re thinking of skipping this section and just heading back to the city, I strongly urge you to reconsider. When I arrived at Ellis Island, I was very unprepared for the emotional aspect of the visit. My only exposure to the area previously was from the film “The Godfather”. I honestly found Ellis Island to be just as compelling as the Statue of Liberty!

Considering the size of the museum I would allocate 1.5 hours for your visit. The main area you’ll be visiting is all in one building, but it is quite big and it’s on two floors. You will learn all about the influx of immigrants from all over the world (mostly European) who came in search of a better life in America.

Location: Statue of Liberty

Most Popular New York Tours

Best Selling Tour

Before the Crowds Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

Join us on an epic journey through American history! On this tour you will visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with roundtrip ferry transport included all with a local guide who will describe the city’s amazing history as you visit the picturesque monument.

Top Rated Tour

The New York Met Unveiled: Guided Tour

Visit the most visited art museum in America! You will find artwork from all the world from amazing sculptures to emotional paintings. Your local tour guide will also unveil the secrets of the artists themselves!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to spend 3 days in New York .

How To Get To the Statue of Liberty

Traveling to the Statue of Liberty is pretty simple, you’ll be departing from one of the ferry points located either in Battery Park or Liberty State Park. Before you leave, you should plan your journey to these locations. This way, you’ll be sure to get to Liberty Island early and avoid any unnecessary travel complications or stress along the way. 

Battery Park  

Battery Park is in Manhattan, at the southern tip of the city. It’s surrounded by the New York Harbor and the Hudson River. You can get there on the subway, bus, or train, and they’re super easy to access from different points around the city and even out of state.

 If you head to the MTA website, you can set the destination as Battery Park and add your current location for a display of the best route as well as how to purchase transport tickets (they can be purchased online or at the station kiosks). For a point of reference, from Times Square in New York City, you can take the train southbound from Times Square Station (1, 2, or 3) to the South Ferry Stop. From there, it’s a quick 5-minute walk to Battery Park.

The bus is another good option. From near Times Square, you can take the bus from the 5 Av/W 41 St. Stop to the South Ferry stop as well. The MTA website also provides a detailed schedule of bus routes and times from several different points around the city.

Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park is the other popular point of departure for the ferry that arrives at Liberty Island. This park is located in Jersey City, New Jersey, and similar to Battery Park in NYC, it’s easily accessible via public transport that’s provided throughout the state of New Jersey. Newark Penn Station is one of the most frequently used stations in the state and if you leave from there, you’ll have a relatively simple journey to the destination. 

 As suggested on the Liberty State Park Website, take the PATH subway to the Exchange Place stop in Jersey City. From there, you’ll take the Light Rail to Liberty State Park, followed by a short trip on the shuttle bus to the ferry slip. In addition to Newark Penn Station, you can also embark from Hoboken Station and Journal Square in Jersey City. If you’re interested in learning about alternative departure points, the New Jersey Transit website is a great resource to plan your route with ease. 

What To See at the Statue of Liberty

Once you’re on liberty island, there are a few spots that you should definitely visit. Some of these will depend on the ticket you purchased in advance, so keep reading to get an idea. For a more detailed explanation of each area, read our top things to see at the Statue of Liberty.

• Statue of Liberty Exhibit
• Statue of Liberty Museum
• Statue of Liberty Pedestal
• Statue of Liberty Crown (Get ready to walk up 190 stairs!)

Statue of Liberty Tour Options

Unless you’re planning a trip to NYC on a shoestring budget, you should definitely consider a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty. Besides the benefits of skipping the lines that you get when visiting with an expert guide, a tour will simplify your trip.

With round-trip ferry tickets taken care of and a convenient meeting point in Battery Park, you’ll have nothing to worry about except enjoying your time at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Here is our top guided Statue of Liberty tour with great reviews:

Join us on an epic journey through American history! On this tour you’ll visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with roundtrip ferry transport included all with a local guide who will describe the city’s amazing history as you visit the picturesque monument.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Statue of Liberty Guide for more resources.

Facts and History of the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty has some impressive numbers. Here are some cool numbers about this amazing statue:

• Amount of copper used: 62,000 lbs. ( 31 tons).
• Weight of concrete foundation: 54,000,000 lbs. (125 tons).
• The thickness of copper sheeting: 3/32 of an inch, the thickness of two pennies placed together.
• Wind sway: 50 mph winds cause the statue to sway up to 3 inches and the torch up to 6 inches.
• Direction: It is facing southeast so people can see the statue when entering the harbor.
• The Tablet: It reads July 4th, 1776—the date of American Independence.
• The Torch: Is a 1986 replacement. It is copper, covered in 24k gold leaf.
• Height of the Statue of Liberty: 154 feet.

Statue of Liberty History

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France. In 1865, Edouard de Laboulaye, an important French political thinker and supporter of Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War proposed to create a monument for the United States.

His reasoning was that the victory of the Union in the Civil War reaffirmed the United State’s ideals of freedom and democracy. As a result, honoring the United States would at the same time strengthen the causes for Democracy in France.

Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi was the man that made it happen. Bartholdi was a famous French sculptor, best known for his work on the Statue of Liberty. He was elected by Edouard de Laboulaye as the sculptor to build a monument that could commemorate the kinship between France and the United States as well as appreciation for President Abraham Lincoln’s work.

Bartholdi previously worked with Laboulaye in the designing of his bust and was excited to work on the project that came to life over the span of a few years. Thus, the Statue of Liberty was born. 

How was it built?

The construction of the statue began in France in 1876. Bartholdi enlisted a number of French craftsmen to help in the process of transforming his unique ideas into reality. The various parts of the statue were created separately and then shipped to the United States for assembly in 1885.

Upon visiting New York City, Bartholdi chose Liberty Island as its home because of the high level of visibility, which he described as the “gateway to America.” Most of us can agree that the location was a perfect choice, not only is the statue a signature attraction of the city, it’s a symbol of America and its core ideals. 

Once the statue arrived, assembly began very quickly along with the construction of the pedestal upon which it still stands tall today. The process was officially completed in 1886 and celebrated with a large dedication ceremony that was held shortly after. Around a million New Yorkers came out to revel in the unveiling of the statue, a part of a grand history that was yet to fully unfold. 

Interested in finding out more? Read our article on the history of the Statue of Liberty or join our expert local guides on a Statue of Liberty tour —by far the best way to learn more about this iconic NYC landmark.

Places To Eat Inside and Nearby

There are limited options to eat when you depart for the Statue of Liberty. If you go in the morning, I suggest eating in the city when you return. A picnic is also a great idea. Here are a few recommendations for places to eat:

On the Ferry: There are snack stands where you can purchase refreshments and healthy snacks

Crown Café : $$ | Quick Snacks —This is the only place on Liberty Island where you can actually get food. You can get burgers, pizzas, and even sushi in this cafeteria-style café.

Ellis Café : $$ | Quick Snacks —Same as the Crown Café, but on Ellis Island.

Have a Picnic : Liberty Island is actually considered a park, so there is lots of open areas. Grab some food from a local gourmet grocery store in New York and have a leisurely lunch in the sun.

Near the Statue of Liberty:

Hotdog Truck: A quick and easy way to eat like the locals. I’ve eaten from them hundreds of times and never gotten sick. You’ll find them all over the place. Go for it!

The Dead Rabbit : $$ | Irish Pub —Great pub food and strong drinks. What else could you ask for after sightseeing all morning long?

Where To Stay in NYC

New York City is the center of the universe to those who adore this iconic city. Choose the best neighborhood to stay in as you plan your upcoming trip to the Big Apple.

About Brandon Shaw

Brandon is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He left the States to travel the world at 18 and never looked back! As an official Tour Guide of Rome and Certified Sommelier, he loves to travel the world and share these experiences with his readers.

Reader Interactions

Comment (1).

June 12, 2021

Hi Brandon. FYI, ferries from NJ are back open!

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Statue of Liberty Visitors Guide

Helpful information for planning your visit to see Lady Liberty

TripSavvy / Kelsea Watkins 

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the French people to the people of the United States as a symbol of the international friendship forged during the American Revolution. The Statue was designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and the pedestal by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel.

After many delays (mostly due to financial challenges) the Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886; just ten years late for the Centennial celebration for which it was intended. The Statue of Liberty has since become a symbol of freedom and democracy.

Facts and History

When shipped from France to New York, the Statue arrived in 350 pieces.

Once delivered, it took four months to put her together and was completed on October 28, 1886.

For the first time since Sept. 11, 2001, the observation deck of the Statue of Liberty was reopened on Aug. 3, 2004. On July 4, 2009, they reopened the crown to visitors willing (and able) to hike the 354 steps in each direction. Interior access to the Statue of Liberty was suspended on October 29, 2011, for upgrades that were expected to take about a year, but due to damage to Liberty Island sustained during Hurricane Sandy, the re-opening was delayed. Today, visitors who plan in advance can get tickets to climb up to the crown .

The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in the New York Harbor. To get to there, you'll need to take a ferry from Battery Park City or New Jersey .

Closest Subways to the Statue of Liberty: 4/5 to Bowling Green; N/R to Whitehall Street; 1 to South Ferry (you must be in the first 5 cars of the train to exit at South Ferry). Follow the signs to Castle Clinton to buy tickets for the ferry to the Statue of Liberty.

What to Expect When You Visit

First, you'll need to buy your ticket. It's highly recommended that you buy it in advance.

Then, you'll need to clear security before boarding the ferry to Liberty Island. Security is very serious for visitors to the Statue of Liberty — everyone will clear security (including x-ray inspections of baggage and walk through metal detectors) before boarding the ferry.

When departing from Battery Park ( Manhattan ) the ferry first stops at Liberty Island. All passengers must disembark on Liberty Island, even if they want to skip visiting Liberty Island and continue directly on to Ellis Island. After traveling from Liberty Island to Ellis Island, the ferry once again returns to Battery Park . For visitors traveling from New Jersey, the ferry route runs in reverse, visiting Ellis Island first followed by Liberty Island.

The ferry rides between each stop are about 10 minutes, but allow extra time for boarding and disembarking.

Visitors who enter the Statue for either pedestal or crown access will clear security again.

Ticket Information

Admission to Liberty State Park is free, but you must buy a ferry ticket to get there. You can buy your tickets for the ferry online , by phone or in person at either departure location.

Access to the pedestal and Statue of Liberty Museum requires a special ticket but doesn't cost extra. Access to climb the stairs to the crown costs extra and includes access to both the pedestal and museum.

Adults can add on a tour of the Ellis Hospital for an additional cost. Children are not permitted.

Seeing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in One Day

The ferry that takes you to Liberty Island also stops at Ellis Island. Seeing both in a single day is possible, but it will take most of the day. Make sure you arrive early to board the ferry and plan to spend 5-6 hours to give yourself adequate time for travel and exploring both islands.

Visiting With Kids

There is no charge for children under 4-years-old to take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Minors 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult 25 or older when traveling to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Strollers are not permitted inside the Statue of Liberty (for pedestal, museum, and crown access), but they are allowed on the ferry and around Liberty Island. There is plenty of room for running around and relaxing on Liberty Island.

Children must be at least 4-feet-tall and 4-years-old to climb to the crown.

Other Ways to See the Statue of Liberty

If you just want to see the Statue of Liberty, but don't necessarily care about climbing into the crown or walking around Liberty Island, there are a number of great places you can go and things you can do and see the Statue of Liberty.

• Battery Park or the Brooklyn Promenade — if you just want to see the Statue of Liberty from a distance, these are good spots
• New York City Sightseeing Cruises  — nearly every sightseeing cruise offers participants a view of the Statue of Liberty, many times with a good photo opportunity as well
• Staten Island Ferry  — take this free ferry to Staten Island for a great view of the New York Harbor and a chance to see the Statue of Liberty from a distance
• Red Hook Fairway — the outdoor cafe at this Brooklyn supermarket offers a view of the Statue of Liberty

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11 Things To Know Before Visiting The Statue Of Liberty

T he Statue of Liberty is truly a national treasure and  destination that anyone who loves Americana culture will enjoy . Gifted to the United States in 1885 by France and placed on its completed pedestal the following year, "Liberty Enlightening the World" has sat magnificently in New York Harbor and captured the imagination of countless generations of onlookers. In 1903, Emma Lazarus's poem, "The New Colossus," added a poignant rallying call to the statue's rising form. "Mother of Exiles," Lazarus calls Lady Liberty, as her most famous words echo through the ages: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free."

Today, millions of visitors flow through the twined islands in New York Harbor: One supporting Lady Liberty and her crown, torch, and hope for the future, and the other, Ellis Island, a glimpse of America's immigrant past that she represents. If you're a first-time visitor to this  popular U.S. tourist destination , you can make the most of your trip by bearing in mind a few essential tips. From planning when to book your tickets and how to pack for the day to structuring your visit's timeline, these factors will ensure a fulfilling and inspiring visit to this symbol of America's most enduring qualities.

Read more: The Most-Visited Tourist Attraction In Every State

Head To Ellis Island Before Seeing Lady Liberty

A ferry ticket to see the Statue of Liberty also includes a stop at Ellis Island. However, it's a good idea to plan for a reversal of these two destinations. Getting off the boat at Ellis Island first will keep you fresh for longer across a day full of walking and time spent outdoors.

Most of the Ellis Island experience is found indoors, so you'll be in the air conditioning and comfortable halls of the museum portion of the trip. Starting here will give you an excellent order of events so that you are ready to take in the sights of the day for the duration of your voyage out to these historic islands. If you begin with the Statue of Liberty, you may find yourself pounding the pavement in the roasting sunlight for hours with little shade to help cool you down or give you a breather.

The tour of Ellis Island is well worth the visit, but doing it after a walk around Liberty Island will have you drenched in sweat at worst and flagging in energy at best. Reorganize your day to get the most out of both stops, especially if you have ancestors who traveled through Ellis Island and are hoping to spend some time steeped in your own history.

Choose Your Footwear With Comfort In Mind

In addition to Ellis Island's walkthrough, Liberty Island spans about 15 acres in total land area. The statue serves as the highlight, of course, but the whole island is worth exploring since the views of New York and New Jersey surrounding it offer awe-inspiring photo opportunities and vantage points. The Statue of Liberty can also be seen from numerous angles, considering the sheer size of the island.

Taking in the breathtaking form of Lady Liberty from different spots around the island will likely take up a good portion of your time on the trip. As a result, you should place wearing comfortable walking shoes right up at the top of your preparation list for the day. Skip the heels or flip-flops for this one and ensure you have plenty of arch support. With the appropriate footwear in place, only your sense of pace will dictate your adventure around Liberty Island and Ellis Island as you experience history in living color.

Don't Forget Your Sunscreen And Hat Or Umbrella

In the same way that quality walking shoes are a must for any visit to these two islands (especially if you're considering climbing through the statue's interior), sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or umbrella should be on your packing list, too. Droves of visitors flock to New York Harbor during the summer months to see the Statue of Liberty, when the average highs reach up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in July.

If you're traveling to the Big Apple to visit these sites during the warmest months of the year, you may be in for a bit of a shock upon landing on Liberty Island if you forget either of these items. There's little in the way of tree cover throughout Liberty Island, meaning the hours you're sure to spend gazing up at the statue's iconic tablet and torch will also be hours spent in the blazing sunshine. This time spent outdoors can drain your energy and potentially result in a wicked sunburn if you don't take the proper precautions.

You Can Visit From Either New York Or New Jersey

Many people don't realize that they can gain access to Liberty Island during a trip to the Statue of Liberty from either New York or New Jersey. The island rests within New Jersey's state boundary but is administered by the National Park Service and falls under New York State jurisdiction due to an 1834 agreement between the two states that Congress ratified.

At any rate, a journey to Ellis and Liberty Islands can be launched from either state, making it easily accessible for more hopeful visitors. It's important to note that you must return to the same place you departed, though. Paying a visit to the Statue of Liberty is an excellent option for lovers of American symbolism and history on a stopover at Newark International Airport. With a day to kill in Newark, getting to Liberty State Park can take as little as 15 to 20 minutes, with an Uber costing roughly $30.

There Are Food Options On The Island, But You Can Also Bring Your Own

Anyone planning a lengthy visit to the islands will be happy to learn that plenty of food options are available. This is an excellent addition for anyone wanting to sit down and have a small snack or meal midway through the day. However, those taking in the sights and sounds of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty should be wary of pricing from these food vendors. As is typical for museums, historical sites, and other attractions that draw huge crowds, food here can be expensive.

Fortunately, visitors can bring their own food and drink on the ferry. This means packing a sandwich or even something prepared that you purchased in a restaurant or grocery store before departing for the islands can make eating a less expensive task. With your snacks in your backpack, you can sit down anywhere you'd like around the island and have a meal with a spectacular visual backdrop to complement your experience. However, bear in mind that you will need to be ready to remove your food items from your bag when passing through security.

Book Your Ticket As Far In Advance As Possible

Buying your tickets in advance is often a good idea, no matter where you plan to visit. However, at the Statue of Liberty, it's even more critical. There's no way onto the islands without purchasing a ferry ticket—private boats aren't allowed to dock—and only roughly 10,000 tickets are available daily. With 4 million visitors per year flowing through these islands, booking your ticket as far in advance as possible is crucial. This will give you the best pick of options and multiple days to select from, in all likelihood.

It is possible to get a last-minute ticket, but they may be more expensive or cover only limited times and dates, making scheduling the remainder of your visit to the area a bit challenging. Tickets typically get released to the public about half a year in advance. As soon as you solidify your travel plans to New York or New Jersey and know that you want to make the trip out to the harbor, book your tickets so you don't miss out on the best experience possible.

Consider The Type Of Ticket You Want

Four ticket types will grant visitors access to different Ellis and Liberty Islands sections. The Reserve Ticket is the base entry ticket and will provide for your ferry to and from the island. This is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the history and views of the islands. Alternatively, you could opt for a Pedestal Reserve or Crown Reserve Ticket. These add access to the statue's pedestal or crown respectively. While there are about 2,400 to 2,900 Pedestal Reserve Tickets available each day, only about 500 Crown Reserve Tickets can be booked daily, making them increasing rarities for visitors planning a trip to see Lady Liberty.

The Pedestal Reserve Ticket offers access to the Fort Wood segment of the statue's pedestal and gives you a closer look behind the scenes. Heading up to the crown introduces an even more exclusive view of the statue and its surroundings. The final ticket type is the Hard Hat Reserve Ticket. Only about 84 of these tickets are available each day, and ticketholders who are lucky enough to snag Hard Hat Reserve access will enjoy a 90-minute guided tour of the unrestored section on the southern side of Ellis Island as well as access to the Ellis Island Hospital and the "Unframed—Ellis Island" art exhibit.

Be Realistic About Your Expectations On The Island

The stairs to the top of the statue can unveil a dramatic culmination of your trip to the island to see Lady Liberty. Not only will you be one of the few who have climbed the 377 steps from the ground to the crown, but you'll be treated to some spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The statue is 305 feet off the ground (including the pedestal), making it a sizeable landmark that provides a truly breathtaking perspective of two iconic American communities.

But, the climb is not for the faint of heart. A Crown Reserve Ticket will allow you to make the climb as one of around just 500 per day. However, thinking long and hard about your physical ability to scale the spiral staircase is essential. Taller visitors will need to hunch over throughout the climb, and there are no cutaways to take breaks while you're hoofing it to the top. Likewise, the entire interior experience can be a bit claustrophobic. Getting to the top is a fantastic achievement, but it's not an endeavor for everyone and certainly not a task you should take lightly.

Visitors Can Look For Their Ancestors In Ellis Island's Computerized Records

Ellis Island was the waystation for many immigrants coming to America from 1892 until 1954. As a result, it's one of the most influential historical sites you can visit in America today. More than 12 million people arrived at New York Harbor's entry terminal at this time, including over 1 million just in 1907. During the early years, passports and visa papers weren't required, and workers inspected immigrants in the arrival hall instead. This led to plenty of paperwork being generated as inspections took place, and today, you can peruse computerized records of these arrivals.

Records are available for the period spanning 1892 through 1924, with ship data and documentation for individuals who came through the processing lines of Ellis Island. This wonderful addition hits home for those whose relatives passed through the doors of Ellis Island before making their way into the United States to begin their new lives. For tens of millions of Americans today (as many as 40% of U.S. citizens), the halls of Ellis Island represent their ancestors' first steps toward the lives that would eventually bring forth their existence. It's a powerful look into the personal histories of so many Americans, and the National Park Service has done a fantastic job of honoring the place and the personalities who once walked its grounds.

Visit In The Spring Or Fall For The Best Experience

The summer months are the Statue of Liberty's peak visiting period. Vast flocks of people coalesce around the ferry terminals in New York and New Jersey, as well as on both historic islands. If you go during the summer, you should expect longer lines and more crowded grounds. This will require you to arrive earlier and add more waiting time to catch the ferry back.

If you plan your visit for the spring or fall, you'll have better weather, shorter lines, and a more enjoyable experience overall. You might also consider visiting in the winter when lines dwindle to their shortest throughout the year. But the brisk winter air in New York is potent, so making sure you bundle up well is essential for anyone visiting then.

Choosing a weekday, particularly Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, is also a good idea. Midweek, the lines will be their shortest and the islands their emptiest, resulting in a more personal experience with the statue and the hallowed halls of Ellis Island. Of course, everyone's itinerary will be unique, so these may not be doable for each visitor. But any leeway you can find in your schedule to book a ticket when crowds might be a little lighter will result in a better trip.

Dress For The Occasion, As Access Comes With Airport-Like Security

Finally, it's important to remember that the National Park Service administers the Statue of Liberty. It's a federally protected space, so you'll face restrictions on what you can bring onto the ferry and island. No weapons are allowed, including firearms, knives, or explosives. You also can't bring mace or other defensive spray-type tools during your visit. Large bags, including suitcases, aren't permitted either. If you purchased a ticket to enter the pedestal or crown, you'll also need to ditch your backpack or purse. There are lockers available at the screening locations before entry to these parts of the statue. They'll cost 25 cents, and change machines are available to break $1 and $5 bills.

Visitors are also prohibited from bringing UAVs or any other aerial drone onto the island. Unfortunately, film and photography will have to remain grounded while you're exploring the statue and Ellis Island. Reserve ticket holders and those with additional access can enter the priority line for faster movement through the security screening process when heading up to the security line.

Read the original article on Explore .

How to Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

March 22, 2021 February 22, 2021 | Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my privacy policy and disclosure for more information.

Last Updated on March 22, 2021 by Sophie Nadeau

If there’s one place which is most well-known in NYC, it’s probably the State of Liberty on Ellis Island. Towering at 93 meters when including the base and torch, the colossal Statue dates back to the 19th-century and can be seen from all across New York Harbor. Here’s your ultimate guide on how to visit the Statue of Liberty, as well as what tickets to purchase and travel tips you should know about prior to your visit.

Editor’s note: If you are looking for the easiest way to visit the Statue of Liberty, in the least amount of time, then I highly recommend booking a guided visit. This will save you planning time, and a single price tag will cover the cost of a ferry, island visits, and all the timings will be planned for you. Book a guided visit of the Statue of Liberty here.

Otherwise, if you want to plan your own visit, then a simple ferry ticket for Liberty Island and Ellis Island can be booked here.

There are two places to take the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island from the land. Ferries from Battery Park, New York stop at Liberty Island first and then at Ellis Island; meanwhile ferries departing Liberty State Park, New Jersey stop at Ellis Island first and then Liberty Island second.

Fun facts about the Statue of Liberty

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Before diving into exactly how to visit the Statue of Liberty, I thought it might at first be fun to cover exactly what the statue is and why it is where it is in the New York Harbor. Many visitors don’t know this, but the official name for the Statue of Liberty is actually “Liberty Enlightening the World”.

The Statue of Liberty represents the Roman goddess of freedom known as Libertas and was actually a gift to the United States from France in 1886. Indeed, several Statue of Liberty replicas can be found across the French capital city of Paris today.

Located on Liberty Island, New York City, the only way to visit the symbol of freedom statue is via a cruise run by Statue Cruises from Battery Park in New York City and from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. No other companies are permitted to take passengers to Liberty Island.

The cost of ferry tickets also cover the cost of a ferry ticket to Ellis Island, which was once the first port of call for around 12 million immigrants arriving in the United States of America. Today, Ellis Island operates as a museum.

The price of some Statue Cruises’ tickets give you access to ferries, the grounds, the museums, and audio guides on the island. If you are travelling with children, then kids between the ages 0-3 can visit the Statue of Liberty for free. Rather interestingly, Liberty Island is actually closer to New Jersey rather than New York state.

Before visiting, you should know that, as one of the most popular attractions in New York (third only to the World Trade Center Site and the Empire State Building) , the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are busy all year ’round, with Crown access tickets being booked out up to six months ahead of time (but more on that later).

The ferry to the islands can be breezy and so it’s essential that you wear layers. While the summer can be incredibly hot, and being the school holidays is also the busiest time of the year to visit, the winter can be bitterly cold. I personally think that the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty is in the late spring or early fall. This way, you’ll have better weather, albeit it with fewer crowds than those of the summer months.

Statue of Liberty Tickets: Standard, Pedestal or Crown Access?

First things first, if you want to visit the Crown of the Statue of Liberty, you should know that tickets for this are never available on the day itself and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are so popular for this Liberty Island activity that tickets can sell out up to six months in advance, especially for peak season (i.e. during the summer months).

In order to climb to the top of the crown, you will need to be able to climb up to the crown unassisted (there are approximately 393 steps to reach the top, which is approximately the height of a 27-story building) and children must be at least 4-feet tall to climb the crown on their own.

Only ten people are allowed inside the crown at a time. It’s also worth noting that there is no elevator access within the crown and some of the steps can be narrow in places. Visitors should also note that the temperature inside the crown can get very hot during the summer months and so you should bring along water for the climb. Purchase a crown ticket on Statue Cruises website here.

Unlike the crown access to the Statue of Liberty, there are usually some tickets available for purchase on the day of your visit from ferry offices for pedestal access. However, there are very few and these tend to sell out fast. as a result, I highly recommend booking your visit to access the pedestal up to three or four months before your planned trip.

The pedestal is directly under the statue’s feet, which contains a museum. There are 215 steps between the base of the statue and the top of the pedestal. Alternatively, there is elevator access. The Pedestal also rewards visitors with one of the most beautiful views of the New York City skyline to be found anywhere in the city. Purchase a pedestal ticket on Statue Cruises website here.

Standard Access is the cheapest option to see the Statue of Liberty and means that visitors can tour Liberty Island and Ellis Island but won’t be able to go inside the Statue of Liberty itself. These tickets are more readily available than crown access or pedestal access and won’t require planning several months out of your visit.

All visitors can visit the Statue of Liberty Museum, which has been opened since 2019, included in the price of their entrance/ ferry ticket. The standard access tickets are available as both timed ticket and flexible ticket, which will give you a little more flexibility when it comes to planning your visit.

Free audio tours are available to everyone with Standard access to the Statue of Liberty and come in various different languages. In order to get an audio guide for Liberty Island, you simply need to head to head to the booth as soon as you enter Liberty Island. Purchase a standard access ticket to the Statue of Liberty here.

There are pros and cons to both visiting the Statue of Liberty as part of a tour, as well as doing it by yourself (i.e. self-guided). Some of the greatest benefits of embarking on a tour of the Statue of Liberty include that it will be less planning on your part in terms of time and stress.

For example, booking a tour will ensure that you will have an expert guide with you who can answer any of your historical questions. Booking a tour can also be a good last-minute option if you want to visit the Islands but have left it until the last minute. With thing being said, going self-guided can save you money and will allow you to wander the islands at your own pace.

Statue of Liberty tours: which ticket should I buy?

If you’re looking to visit the Statue of Liberty with a tour, then you’ll find a list of tickets below, as well as the pros and cons of each ticket and option. If you’re planning to go the self-guided route for visiting the Statue of Liberty then read on as I cover how to visit the Statue of Liberty on a self-guided tour directly below. Otherwise, a large selection of Statue of Liberty tickets can be found here.

If you are looking for a visit to Liberty Island where all of the planning has been done for you, then you may well want to book this tour. Included in the price of a ticket is a guided walk of Battery Park (one of the best vantage points to see the Statue of Liberty), expedited access to the ferry, and ferry tickets to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Book your tickets here in advance.

If you are staying in Midtown Manhattan (which is where I suggest most first-time visitors to NYC stay at) , then booking this tour will save you from the stress of having to reach the ferry port terminal for yourself.

Included in the ticket price is VIP reserved access to the ferry, rerry tickets to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, a guided walk around Liberty Island (exterior of the Statue of Liberty), Ellis Island and the 9/11 Memorial pools, and bus transportation between midtown Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty ferry. Book your tickets here in advance.

Whether you prefer a more independent travel experience, want to save some money, or simply prefer to enjoy attractions at your own leisure, then visiting the Statue of Liberty as part of a self-guided tour may well be the best option for you.

In order to go on a self-guided tour, you’ll need to plan your voyage yourself, which can easily be done. Though you can purchase tickets on the day, you can also book your tickets in advance for the ferry (which includes Ellis Island and Liberty Island access), which can be done here.

The most important tip I would give anyone looking to visit the Statue of Liberty would be to book your tickets well in advance! It may come as a surprise to many visitors, but you’ll need to book pedestal and crown tickets months in advance, especially during busy times of the year (i.e. the summer).

Even during the off peak in NYC (winter), tickets can often sell out weeks in advance and so it’s best to plan well ahead of time if you want to be able to go inside the Statue of Liberty itself. As one of the most famous tourist attractions in the entirety of the USA, let alone in New York State, there are strict airport-style security protocols in place before you board the ferry.

You can’t bring along anything you wouldn’t be allowed to bring on an aeroplane so plan accordingly. Visitors who hold tickets to visit the pedestal and crown are also required to go through secondary screenings once on Liberty Island. You must also have a government issued ID which matches the name of your ticket.

If you want to make the most of your visit, then I recommend starting your day as early as possible. Indeed, tickets for ferries departing after 2PM in the afternoon don’t even allow visitors to stop on Ellis Island due to the fact that there is so much to see on Liberty Island itself!

Long lines are a given when you’re visiting one of the most visited attractions in the US and the Statue of Liberty is no exception. When picking a specific ferry time, plan to turn up at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Furthermore, if you are going to pick up your tickets on site, then you’ll need to factor in a further ten minutes. 

All ferries are wheelchair accessible, and service animals and authorised guides are also welcome aboard. There are bathrooms available on land as well as aboard all ferries. Ferries take around fifteen minutes between stops, and so if you want to visit both Ellis Island and Liberty island in one day, you’ll want to set aside at least four to six hours of your time. 

Though food options are available on the island, these can be a little on the pricier side of things (as is usual with touristic locations) and so I personally recommend packing along a picnic so as to save queuing time on the island, as well as some money! Be sure to also come prepared for the weather (i.e. sun cream in the summer and a warm jacket in the winter).

Though the animals which roam the islands are adorable (namely the squirrels and chipmunks), you should not feed them for health reasons. Do not bring oversized bags or suitcases as these are not permitted to be taken to the islands and do not bring any weapons.  

How to see the Statue of Liberty for free

When I first read that visiting Liberty Island is free, I was really happy. However, since you need to pay for the ferry to access Liberty Island and Ellis Island, this is not strictly true! However, if you’re planning to visit New York City on a budget, then you may well instead want to skip out on visiting Liberty Island itself and instead indulge in one of the best views the city has to offer of the Statue. 

One of the best views of the Statue of Liberty from New York can be found at Battery Park. 

If you fancy going onto the water via a ferry but a paid ticket is not within your trip budget, then you’ll be delighted to discover that the Staten Island Ferry is completely free. The ferry departs at regular intervals during the day from Whitehall Terminal and passes pretty close to the Statue of Liberty, offering beautiful views of the iconic landmark. Over 60,000 people ride this route on a daily basis!

Although this Statue of Liberty viewpoint isn’t technically free, if you’re not willing to pay to visit Liberty Island but would otherwise like to ascend one of New York’s other vantage points, then the One World Observatory offers one of the best and unparalleled views of the Statue that you’ll find anywhere in the city.

If you really want to visit the Statue of Liberty up close, and don’t want to opt for one of the free options, then there are still ways to save money during your trip to New York if you’re planning on visiting a lot of attractions.

There are several city-wide passes which include a number of popular destinations. One such pass is the New York Pass, which will save up to 45% on over 100 top attractions. Check prices and extra information for the New York Pass here.

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14 insider tips for visiting the Statue of Liberty by a New Yorker

June 14, 2019 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

One of the most majestic places to visit in New York is the Statue of Liberty. This iconic American sight is the symbol of New York and even as a New Yorker, I had to revisit Lady Liberty on my recent trip. I’ve included some insider tips for avoiding lines when visiting the Statue of Liberty, tips for getting reasonable tickets for the Statue of Liberty (including climbing the crown), and general travel tips for visiting the Statue of Liberty for the first time.

• 1 You can get to the Statue of Liberty two ways: through New Jersey and Battery Park (Manhattan).
• 2.1.1 #1 Crown Access
• 2.1.2 #2 Podium Access
• 2.1.3 #3 Reserve Ticket
• 2.1.4 Avoid: Not buying a ticket in advance
• 3 Visit on weekdays and non-holidays to avoid crowds.
• 4 The tickets for the crown generally sell out at least three months in advance. Plan ahead as the crown is worth it!
• 5.1 If going up to the podium or crown, minimize your items and bring quarters.
• 6 Looking for that iconic photo of Manhattan? Wait until the ferry turns or you get to Liberty Island!
• 7 Arrive early and use the toilet before you arrive at Battery Park.
• 8 Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.
• 9 Be sure to step into the FREE new museum on Liberty Island
• 10 Take the free audio tour or the free guided tour by a ranger
• 11 Give yourself enough time to explore Ellis Island
• 12 To stay on budget: Have lunch at the official Statue of Liberty cafeteria. Bring your own empty water bottle!
• 13 Have you visited the Statue of Liberty?

You can get to the Statue of Liberty two ways: through New Jersey and Battery Park (Manhattan).

I generally recommend not driving in Manhattan unless you have to, so if you’re only visiting the Statue of Liberty for the day from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or another state south of New York, I recommend coming from Liberty State Park (the New Jersey side.) It should be less crowded and you can pay for daily parking on-site.

If you’re visiting the Statue of Liberty from Manhattan, expect crowds. The closest subway stop is Bowling Green (4,5) or Whitehall Street (N, W). A subway tip : You’ll most likely be taking the subway downtown or towards Brooklyn if you’re coming from anywhere else in Manhattan. Pay attention to the stops, so you don’t end up in Brooklyn by mistake!

Avoid waiting in line by booking your ticket in advance through the official website*

Buy your tickets in advance via StatueCruises , which is the official contractor for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island cruises for the National Parks Service. Buy your tickets directly through the official website to avoid disappointment, scammers, et al. Reserving also gives you priority access to the screening queue!

For the tickets, you’ll need to pick them up after showing valid identification (e.g. passport or driver’s license) at Fort Clinton at the Will-Call booth, which is located in the center of the fort. Tell the friendly ranger that you have reservations for tickets (if you’re feeling lost) and they will happily guide you to the short line for picking up your ticket. You can show your reservation number or credit card that you booked it with.

None of the other cruises have the right to land on Liberty Island, only go past it. Instead of paying for a cruise, you could be paying for a cruise, access to the Statue of Liberty, and entrance to Ellis Island.

Which tickets to the Statue of Liberty are the best to buy?

All tickets include free audio tours as well as free ranger tours of both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Even if you forget to book your tickets in advance, you should still be able to go to the Statue of Liberty as long as you’re willing to wait in line for the Liberty Island ferry. This will take longer, but if it’s on your bucket list, do it!

Reserving at least a week in advance has some serious perks, including a shorter line at the ferry, and possibly access to the more exclusive areas of the Statue of Liberty. At least check the website for tickets!

#1 Crown Access

If you are looking for the best experience, I highly recommend getting crown tickets in advance! These are the most exclusive tickets for the Statue of Liberty, which provide you with access to Ellis Island, the grounds of Liberty Island, priority access to the screening facility, the Statue of Liberty Museum, access to the podium, AND climbing access to the crown. All for $21.50 for adults (2019). It’s cheaper for children and seniors.

Only a fraction of the daily visitors (less than .5%) get to climb to the crown, so this is really special. You must book your crown tickets at least three months in advance. There are a number of physical and visiting conditions attached to climbing the crown, which I’ll be discussing in a dedicated blog post, so it’s best suitable for smaller groups of adults (less than 4) or solo travelers. It is worth it although you won’t be able to reserve tickets for at least six months. (They will take down your name and check ID!) You’ll get a special wristband when you get your ticket.

#2 Podium Access

If you can’t get the crown tickets, I recommend getting the next best thing: Podium Access . Podium Access means that you can take the stairs or the elevator up to the podium. This also gives you access to Ellis Island, the grounds of Liberty Island, priority access to the screening facility, and the Statue of Liberty Museum.

These tickets cost just $18.50 for adults. It’s cheaper for children and seniors. I recommend reserving Podium Access for at least one month in advance. You’ll get a special wristband when you get your ticket.

#3 Reserve Ticket

If you are planning your trip to the Statue of Liberty more last minute, don’t panic! You’ll want to look for the general Reserve Ticket at least a week before (ideally!). This also gives you access to Ellis Island, the grounds of Liberty Island, priority access to the screening facility, and the Statue of Liberty Museum. This costs $18.50 for adults. (As you can see, it’s the same price for pedestal access if you plan ahead!)

Avoid: Not buying a ticket in advance

Visit on weekdays and non-holidays to avoid crowds.

Most people from the New York Metropolitan area visit on holidays and weekends, so you can expect significant crowds if you visit on a Saturday or Sunday. (You might be able to avoid the crowds by going when the first Statue of Liberty departs if you’re visiting on a popular day.)

As you can imagine, major American holidays are a popular time to visit the Statue of Liberty. I recommend going on a weekday prior to the holiday, if possible, to avoid significant lines!

The tickets for the crown generally sell out at least three months in advance. Plan ahead as the crown is worth it!

The crown access is so worth it although it’s a bit of a haul! The interior of the Statue of Liberty might surprise you and it resembles the Eiffel Tower more than you’d expect. The interior has a thin layer of bronze that you can feel (with the permission of the rangers!) once you reach the top. (It’s absolutely fascinating to see Lady Liberty inside out as you climb the narrow staircase to the crown from the podium after showing your wristband (given to you with your tickets). We were the only ones at the top and they carefully limit how many people can climb per hour for this reason.

As a related note, I should note that anyone who tells you that they’ve climbed to the torch is likely misremembering or lying about their experience (unless they’re a park ranger!). The last time that the torch was open to the public was in 1916. The year was 1916 when the explosion of nearby Black Tom Island by German spies seriously damaged the Statue of Liberty, including the original torch. Since then, the torch has only been accessible via a 40-foot ladder for staff. Today, you can see the torch at the free museum without taking any steps or buying additional tickets!

I was a bit nervous when I realized how many steps were involved with climbing the crown, but it’s not as bad as you might realize. (I warn that those who are disabled or have issues with stairs will not be able to climb to the top.) You can take an elevator to the top of pedestal if you’re not enthusiastic about climbing the 195 steps to the pedestal, but from there, you will need to climb the remaining 162 steps.

As a note, you are allowed to bring very limited items up to the crown after the second security screening. Choose carefully if you end up bringing a water or cell phone with you as you will need to hold it as you climb the stairs. I brought my camera, but having a pocket for a cell phone within a jacket is quite useful…

The staircase is narrow and vertigo-inducing at times, however very few people are allowed access at any time, so you can climb the stairs at a leisurely pace with taking significant time to take a breather in the cramped passages. I do not recommend this journey for those who get seriously claustrophobia or grapple with bad vertigo, especially for the way down.

My friend who came with me is currently undergoing medical treatment and she was worried about coming back down if it got too difficult. Luckily, the park rangers were exceptionally friendly and supportive of her journey to the crown. (You can climb down if you need to!) She made it and I could not be more proud of her!

Once you reach the top, you’ll have stunning views of the Hudson River, Manhattan, New Jersey, and Brooklyn from the windows of the crown. It can get quite hot up in the crown as well, you’re in a large metal statue with no air conditioning. (We heard a long discussion by the park rangers about summer in the Statue of Liberty.) We enjoyed the photos and I’d encourage you to talk to the park rangers for more information.

The crown provides such a unique experience that few people get to have as well as a stunning view over New York. The photos taken within the crown rarely reflect the importance of where you are and the lighting makes for hard photography. I loved being able to look upon the tablet (a tabula ansata) that Lady Liberty holds from above as well as see the pointy spikes of her crown from so close-up!

Leave your baggage at your hotel

In order to get on the ferry to Liberty Island, you’ll need to go through a security booth similar to what you’d expect at an airport. I recommend avoiding any large bags or baggage as they’re not allowed. (We left ours at the hotel that we did a staycation at after checking out.)

If going up to the podium or crown, minimize your items and bring quarters.

If you’ll be climbing to the podium or crown, I recommend carefully checking the requirements. I ended up bringing a very small side bag, which still had to go into the lockers for the crown. I was able to bring my camera, my phone, and a water (if I wished). That’s it.

Be sure to bring some cash for the lockers. There’s a change machine that can break $1 and $5 bills, but I’d recommend bringing at least fifty cents for each locker that you think you’ll use!

Looking for that iconic photo of Manhattan? Wait until the ferry turns or you get to Liberty Island!

I have a photo of everyone freaking out trying to take a photo of Manhattan as soon as the ferry set off from Battery Park and as we approached the Statue of Liberty. I recommend taking a window seat on the right side as you go to Liberty Island from Manhattan, which will provide good views for most of the ferry ride.

Once you arrive on Liberty Island, you’ll regret trying to take a million photos from the ferry as you’re right here–and you have fantastic views from the dock. Simply, save your phone battery although I found that bringing a portable power bank was great for taking videos without running my battery down!

As a note: I personally was a bit glad to be near the front of the ferry on the way back as it meant that we still had views from the left side of the ship–and we were the first ones off the ferry!

Arrive early and use the toilet before you arrive at Battery Park.

I recommend arriving at least forty five minutes ahead of your time slot on the Statue of Liberty, even if you have a reservation. (Use the toilet beforehand as you won’t have toilet access for a while.) Get in the security line as soon as you pick up your tickets. You’ll get priority access, but security still takes a while and you might still need to wait for the ferry. Don’t risk missing your reservation to visit!

Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.

I highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes when visiting the Statue of Liberty. This is because you’ll be getting on the ferry, which requires going up/down a ramp. Similarly, you might need to stand on the ferry, which requires shoes with grip. Even if you are not climbing the Statue of Liberty, you’ll still want to walk all the way around Liberty Island. It’s bigger than you might realize, so dress for comfort. Your photos will turn out great regardless! Click for my tips on what to wear in New York City!

Much of Liberty Island is uncovered, so be sure to bring sunscreen with you to prevent yourself from getting burnt. We were there on a beautiful day in May with full sun. Trust me, it will be hot in summer and you don’t want to come home with a sunburn!

Be sure to step into the FREE new museum on Liberty Island

Many of the older posts mention that only those with tickets can visit the museum on Liberty Island, but these are outdated. The new Statue of Liberty museum that just opened in May is open to the public (e.g. anyone who has ground access). Within the museum, you’ll learn a lot of fascinating facts about the history of the Statue of Liberty, the process of constructing it (with drafts!), and even feel a lifesize version of her foot/face (a replica).

Most notably, you’ll find the original torch with a view of Lady Liberty within the museum. They could easily charge extra for this museum, so be sure to enjoy it as it’s free with your admission! The museum is very kid-friendly and photo-friendly. I’d say give yourself about thirty minutes to go through the museum although you can certainly see it in less time.

Take the free audio tour or the free guided tour by a ranger

As soon as you enter Liberty Island, you’ll see a booth outside for audio guides. These audio tours are free with admission and come in various languages! Even better, you can check NPS (National Parks Service website) as well as signs for the free tours headed up by the National Parks rangers. Even if you don’t take these opportunities, you can always talk to the rangers, who are happy to tell visitors about the unique history of this statue.

Give yourself enough time to explore Ellis Island

My biggest tip for visiting the Statue of Liberty? It has to be to take advantage of your free ticket to Ellis Island! I’d expect the overall trip time to be around 4 hours between the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, even with rushing a bit through the exhibitions.

Many people stayed on the ferry when it stopped at Ellis Island en route back to Manhattan, but I’d recommend giving yourself at least 1 hour to explore Ellis Island. (For a bit extra, you can do a hard hat exploration of Ellis Island, which can be reserved in advance online, which provides access to parts of Ellis Island typically closed to the public!)

Ellis Island was a major portal for more than 12 million immigrants entering the United States between 1892 and 1954. Many, including my own grandfather, passed through these halls as they eyed the Statue of Liberty from the windows. Many never made it (despite being so close) as they were singled out from entering the United States due to medical quarantines. At a minimum, be sure to enter the Great Hall and try to imagine thousands of people crowded waiting for liberty in a promised land…

To stay on budget: Have lunch at the official Statue of Liberty cafeteria. Bring your own empty water bottle!

In a desperate attempt to save money beforehand, I ended up eating quite a bit beforehand as I was worried about the food situation, but the cafeteria on Liberty Island is surprisingly affordable given how touristic this area is.

Expect to pay around $10 for lunch, which can include an all-American burger with fries. Drinks are extra. You’ll also find healthy salads and vegan options. My friend especially enjoyed the giant homemade lemonade, which came in a cool keepsake glass that is the shape of the Statue of Liberty.

To cut costs, I recommend bringing an empty water bottle with you. There are free fountains where you can fill up your water bottle with fresh water, so avoid paying for a drink if you’re content with just water!

Have you visited the Statue of Liberty?

• Travel tips for visiting New York City by a New Yorker
• Foods to eat in New York
• First-time itinerary for New York City
• How to take the subway
• Tips for NYC on a budget

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

March 30, 2023 at 7:52 pm

I really enjoyed your advice; took notes. My guest and I are planning to visit Lady Liberty in November 2023. As a senior, I am in pretty good health. I’ve always wanted to visit Lady Liberty and Ellis Island. My 5 x great grandfather sailed through in 1804.

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How to Visit the Statue of Liberty – Everything You Need to Know

Wondering the best way or how to visit the Statue of Liberty? We have you covered in this full, easy to follow guide plus great Statue of Liberty tips to consider before your trip to make visiting a popular tourist attraction and iconic symbol of the United States easy, interesting, and memorable instead of frustrating and confusing plus you don’t want to fall for any common scams in NYC !

We have put together our best tips for your Statue of Liberty visit as well as all the information you need to know in order to plan your trip including ferry information, ticket information, where to go, and how long you will need to plan for your Statue of Liberty visit!

Also, be sure to check out the best Statue of Liberty viewpoints around NYC for more incredible spots to see Lady Liberty shine in all her glory!

Facts About the Statue of Liberty

Before your Statue of Liberty, visit be sure to brush up on some interesting facts about Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, and this historic monument!

The Statue of Liberty’s official name is actually Liberty Enlightening the World.

The Statue of Liberty was gifted to the United States from France in 1886 to represent the close relationship between the two nations, the head of the statue was on display in 1878 at the World Fair in Paris. The statue was a gift to celebrate the nation’s new independence and the abolishment of slavery.

The Statue of Liberty represents the Roman goddess of freedom known as Libertas.

Lady Liberty holds a torch and a tablet with the date July 4, 1776, America’s Declaration of Independence inscribed on it in Roman Numerals.

During its cross-Atlantic voyage to the United States, the Statue of Liberty was disassembled into 350 pieces and packed in 214 crates arriving in the New York Harbor on June 17, 1885.

The island was used for centuries by the Lenape Native Americans and was a major source of food for them as well as the Dutch colonizers. The US Army made the island a military post in 1807.

To visit the crown, known as the Pedestal you will have to climb 354 stairs and are greeted with views through the 25 windows in the crown.

The crown has 7 spikes which represent the 7 oceans and 7 continents of the world.

The statue is made of an iron infrastructure with a copper exterior that has oxidized over time and turned to the green color we see today which actually protects the statue from damage.

Gustave Eiffel designed the Eiffel Tower helped design the Statue of Liberty’s ‘spine’ made of 4 iron columns supporting a metal framework that holds the copper skin.

The Statue of Liberty’s torch was replaced in 1984 with a new torch made of copper covered with 24 karat gold leaf.

The Statue of Liberty became a symbol of immigration and the American dream during the 19th century when a surge of immigrants came to the United States through New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty was one of the first things they saw when arriving to the United States.

During the years of 1886-1902, the Statue of Liberty also was used as a lighthouse reaching light up to 24 miles away!

In high winds of over 50 mph the Statue of Liberty can sway up to 3 inches!

How to Visit the Statue of Liberty

Once you’ve decided to make the trip to visit the Statue of Liberty, your first step to planning the perfect visit is to plan how you’ll get there. To reach Liberty Island, where Lady Liberty stands in all her glory, you’ll need to take a ferry.

If you’re planning your Statue of Liberty visit from Manhattan, you can board the ferry from Battery Park. If you’re heading down from the East Side of the city, you can reach Battery Park by taking FDR Drive South and exiting at 1 South Ferry Battery Park, or by taking Westside Highway South (NY State 9A) to Battery Park if you’re traveling from the West Side.

However, keep in mind that parking around The Battery can be somewhat of a nightmare, so you may want to opt for public transit if possible.

If your group is able to take public transportation for your visit, you can hop on the M15 bus towards South Ferry if you’re coming from the East Side, or the M6 bus towards South Ferry if you’re starting from the West Side.

If you prefer to travel underground, you can either take a Local 1 train to South Ferry, an Express 4 or 5 to Bowling Green, or a Local R or W to Whitehall Street Station.

If your trip is starting from across the Hudson in New Jersey, you can board the ferry from Liberty State Park, which is accessible from the New Jersey Turnpike exit 14-B. There is parking available from this departure location for a fee, making it the better option if your group is traveling by car.

If you’re taking public transit in New Jersey, you can take the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail to the Liberty State Park Station, walk about a mile down Audrey Zapp Drive to the ticket office near the CRRNJ Terminal.

Once you’ve gotten your tickets (if you haven’t purchased them ahead of time) and gone through the security area, you’re a short 0.3 mile walk away from the ferry gangway from which the ferry will depart. This transit option does involve a good amount of walking, so if there is any concern about accessibility for your party, driving or taking a taxi or rideshare may be a better option.

If you’ve got time to spare and want to take in as many sights as possible, you can also take a ferry from the Liberty Landing Ferry Service World Financial Terminal in New York to get to Liberty State Park for departure to Liberty Island.

If you’ve gone ahead and purchased your tickets for your trip to the Statue of Liberty, you’ll get $2 off your ferry ride to the departure destination!

After you’ve decided on the best way to travel to the statue, you can plan what all you want to do and see during your visit. 

All ferry tickets to Liberty Island, from either the New York or New Jersey departure location, are round-trip tickets and also include a ferry ride to Ellis Island, where you can visit the Immigration Museum and learn about the historic immigration port.

All tickets also include an audio tour and a Ranger-led tour of Liberty Island. The audio tour is a great way to tour the grounds and museums at your own pace while still receiving interesting information.

The included audio tour is available in Arabic, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. Ranger tours are also included in all tickets, which you can take advantage of if you want a more structured tour of the grounds.

These tours include information on the history of the statue and information on its construction. If you’re planning your trip a little further in advance, the interior may be open to the public in time for your visit, in which case you’ll need to decide if you want to take the trek up to the crown, visit the Pedestal Museum, or take the Ellis Island hard hat tour, as these decisions will impact what tickets you’ll need to purchase for your visit.

Statue of Liberty Tickets

The Reserve Tickets (the only option currently available) include the ferry ride to Liberty Island, the ferry ride to Ellis Island, the ferry ride back to either New Jersey or Manhattan, an audio tour, and Ranger tours.

These tickets are $19.50 for adults ages 13-61, $9.00 for children ages 4-12, and $14.00 for seniors ages 62 and up. If you’re bringing along a little pal that is 3 or younger, you do not need to purchase tickets for these visitors.

When choosing a time for your tickets, keep in mind that you are not purchasing tickets for a specific ferry departure at that scheduled time.

Instead, these time intervals are the time in which your party will be admitted to the security area of your departure destination, so keep this in mind if you’re planning a jam-packed day of exploring.

If you are interested in a professional tour guide you’ll need to purchase those tickets separately. There are various options to choose from, depending on what you and your group want to get out of your visit to the Statue of Liberty.

We recommend booking in advance, check out these great options for visiting the Statue of Liberty with a tour :

• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Fast Track Access : 30-minute live guided tour of Battery Park including guaranteed access & priority boarding to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island ferry. You can enjoy Ellis Island with audio guides or upgrade to an escorted tour.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour with Reserve Access: Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with priority reserve access to the ferry line. Learn the history with a local expert guide on this 4-hour tour.

Statue of Liberty with Pedestal Access & Ellis Island Tour: Tour of Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Pedestal access with a professional licensed guide on a 4-hour tour.

Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island & Pre-Ferry Tour: Includes a 30-minute live guided tour of Battery Park before heading to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island. Explore with audio guides or upgrade to include a fully-escorted guided tour of Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

Private Ellis Island Tour with Statue of Liberty Access: Personalized, small group private tour of Ellis Island & Liberty Island with ferry access and access to the Pedestal.

Alternatively, if you plan on enjoying more NYC experiences and tours you can get a New York City attraction pass which can save you hundreds of dollars by making a one time purchase for a pass that gets you into multiple city attractions including visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

CityPASS offers a 3 attraction pass or a 6 attraction pass with over 12 city attractions to choose from including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferry passes, Empire State Building , and more! 

Another great option is the New York Pass which you can purchase anywhere from a 1 Day Pass to a 10 Day Pass that gets you into over 100 attractions. Once you purchase your New York Pass you download the Go City app and use it to gain access to attractions including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

See our full breakdown of the New York Pass and our breakdown of the New York CityPASS to see if it’s worth it for your visit to save hundreds of dollars on multiple attractions!

What to Expect at Your Statue of Liberty Visit

Although you’ll be purchasing a timed ticket, you and your travel companions will want to plan on arriving at your departure destination at least 30 minutes prior to the time indicated on your ticket.

The time on your ticket indicates the time that your party will be admitted to go through security. Since you’re visiting a National Park and historical landmark, security is pretty tight, so plan ahead to ensure everyone in your group will make it through security seamlessly and without having any personal items confiscated.

Once you’ve successfully made it through the security procedures, you can prepare to board the ferry and cruise along to your visit to the statue and Ellis Island. Ferries depart every 20-35 minutes, giving you plenty of time to make sure little ones use the bathroom on land, but not too long that you’re waiting forever before boarding.

All ferries are wheelchair accessible, and service animals and authorized guides are welcome aboard as well. There are bathrooms located on board all ferries, so if you or the kids missed the opportunity before departing, you can still take a bathroom break before reaching Liberty Island or Ellis Island. While there are bathrooms available on both islands, it may take some searching and walking to reach them.

Each leg of the ferry ride takes about 15 minutes. If you are planning on taking advantage of seeing both the Liberty Island and Ellis Island grounds, you will want to block out at least 5-6 hours for your trip.

If you plan on passing up Ellis Island and instead choosing just to visit the Statue of Liberty, you should still allow 2-3 hours to ensure you have enough time to enjoy your visit and make sure you take the ferry back to Lower Manhattan instead of the ferry to Ellis Island.

If you’ve purchased tickets to visit the interior of the pedestal, the Pedestal Museum, the crown, or the Ellis Island hard hat tour, plan to spend closer to the estimated 5-6 hours to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth and allowing enough time to take in as much as possible.

If you are visiting once the interior of the statue is reopened, there is no additional fee to enter the pedestal and visit the Pedestal Museum, but you do have to reserve specific tickets to do so.

If you are planning to visit the crown of the statue, it is an extra $3 per visitor, in addition to the standard ferry ticket price. Keep in mind that the crown access is not available to visitors under 4, so plan accordingly if you’re bringing along little adventurers.

If you are wanting to partake in the Ellis Island hard hat tour, you’ll have to pay an extra $40 per visitor, and the tour is limited to those who are ages 13 and up. Keep in mind that if you’re visiting during the hotter months and plan on attending the hard hat tour that open-toed shoes and sandals are not permitted on the tour.

Tips for Visiting Ellis Island

The most common way to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is first visit Liberty Island, then taking the ferry from Liberty Island to Ellis Island.

You will want to plan on spending a few hours here to really enjoy the exhibits and museum here depending on how deep you want to dive into the history of this historic port that over 12 million immigrants passed through!

The most difficult part of planning the entire day around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is planning meals as you have limited options once you’ve begun your day. Ellis Island does have the Ellis Island Cafe where you can buy something to hold you over until you get back to Manhattan.

Liberty Island also has the Statue of Liberty Crown Cafe if you need a bite to eat here too.

Don’t miss the last ferry back to Manhattan! You will want to check and ask on the day of your visit, but typically the last ferry back to Manhattan is around 3:30 pm.

If you’re hoping to look up your ancestors who may have passed through Ellis Island on their journey to a new life in the United States records you can do so by finding the computers where you can pay a small fee to access their database and archives, this fee is usually around $8. If you run short on time, you can also do this part later at home from your computer too.

Statue of Liberty Visit Tips

While there is no wrong way to visit Lady Liberty, following these Statue of Liberty tips can help you and your party get the most out of your time.

If you want to save the time you have on the Liberty Island grounds, you can purchase souvenirs and snacks on any of the ferries. This can save some valuable time not waiting in line at the gift shops on the islands.

There are also food options on the island, but they can be a bit pricey and could cause you to have to spend some of your time waiting in line. Pack some food for your visit and enjoy the views of Manhattan from Liberty Island with a picnic and a camera.

Make sure you’re dressed for whatever Mother Nature may throw at you on your trip. You’ll be spending most of the day outdoors, so be sure to come with SPF and water, as well as any layers you may need to stay warm. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you’ve got comfortable shoes.

If you aren’t a big planner, you can buy tickets at your departure location, however, if you want to get the most out of your time and Statue of Liberty visit, it’s best to buy tickets in advance. This will allow you to head straight to security and skip the ticket line. It will also allow you more time to weigh your options and to decide on which ticket options and attractions are best for you and your group.

If you’re going to wing it, beware of people selling unauthorized, invalid, or crazy expensive tickets around Battery Park.

Another thing to keep in mind when deciding which ticket options to choose, remember that accessing the crown requires visitors to climb steps. So although the ferries are all accessible, visiting the crown is not a good option for groups with mobility or accessibility concerns.

As previously mentioned, Ranger-led tours are included in all tickets. These tours lead visitors around Liberty Island, and begin at the flagpole on the island. These tours are informative and great for all ages, making them a great choice for groups with kids and history buffs alike. They take about 30-45 minutes, so take this into account when planning out how you will spend your time during your visit.

When planning on when to visit the Statue of Liberty, take into account how busy it can get. If you’re looking to beat the crowds, try to purchase tickets for a weekday, and early in the day.

If you have flexibility in the time of year you’re able to visit, opt for spring, fall, or winter, when there are fewer visitors and smaller crowds. Not only will this save your group time with shorter lines, but it will also give you more opportunities for photos that are not obstructed by other groups of tourists.

For more amazing views of the Statue of Liberty, be sure to check out our full guide for what to do at Governors Island .

What to Pack for NYC

See our full  what to pack for Brooklyn guide for more ideas!

This Pacsafe Shoulder Bag slings over your body and is the perfect size to carry your day essentials while exploring Brooklyn. This lightweight bag has anti-theft features so you can enjoy Brooklyn with ease of mind with Pacsafe’s anti-theft patent products whether you’re in a crowded area or on the subway.

This Pacsafe Anti-theft Backpack is another essential for Brooklyn or any city trip. This backpack has a patented anti-theft design with lockable zippers and slash-proof material in this sleek and comfortable designed backpack.

Avoid high tech thieves with this 15 pack of RFID blocking sleeves that doesn’t require you to buy a special travel wallet, you can carry your favorite purse, wallet, or backpack by simply putting your credit cards and sensitive information in these RFID blocking sleeves.

Upgrade your wallet with this RFID Blocking Wallet by Pacsafe is the perfect pick. Always have your identification, bank cards, and credit cards protected from high tech thieves with this RFID blocking wallet in this sleek and slim design.

One of the best ways to keep valuables safe when you travel is this Portable Safe by Pacsafe . This is ideal when you’re hotel has a safe that is too small for your belongings, with it’s sleek and compact design so it doesn’t take up much space in your luggage offering maximum security with its stainless steel wire mesh covered in a piece of cut-resistant canvas fabric. You simply lock this portable safe to a secure fixture in your hotel room when you leave.

This iPhone crossbody case  is perfect for sightseeing as you can easily grab your phone for that perfect photo moment on the fly as well as keep your phone secured to your body and safe from pickpockets!

We recommend Allbirds Women’s Wool Runner as well as the Allbirds Men’s Wool Runner for an everyday walking shoe that’s breathable, comfortable, and feels like you’re walking on clouds. Your back and feet will thank us later, plus they are all the rage in the city at the moment.

A good reusable water bottle is one of the best things you can have in your day bag or on you at all times, plus New York City has some of the best drinking water in the country, cut back on single-use plastic and have a good reusable water bottle for your trip.

Don’t leave the house without a good power bank . Don’t spoil your fun exploring all the fun neighborhoods and things to see in Brooklyn by having your battery die on you. If you’re anything like me you’ll be using your phone to take photos, navigate, and post to social media while you’re exploring.

When it comes to the city, this weather is not forgiving and you don’t want to get caught out and about in the rain without an umbrella. That’s why we recommend this compact wind resistant travel umbrella for what to pack for Brooklyn.

Are you a sensitive sleeper?  A good pair of earplugs are essential for your Brooklyn or city trip, especially if you’re not from a big city.

Liked this guide on how to visit the Statue of Liberty and all of our Statue of Liberty tips? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest.

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INTRODUCING the Ellis Island Museum Reimagined Campaign! | CELEBRATE your family story – add a name to the WALL OF HONOR!

Be inspired

Experience the icon in person., ellis island, make the voyage, walk in the footsteps of history., help keep liberty alive..

• Search Passenger and Ship Records
• Views from Lady Liberty
• Let Us Start Your Search!
• Genealogy Tips
• Educational Resources
• Oral History Project
• Famous Names in the Ellis Island Database
• Ellis Island Museum Reimagined
• Become a Member
• Make a Donation
• Wall of Honor
• Founders Registry
• Statue of Liberty Click for more info Overview + History Statue of Liberty Museum The Role of the Foundation The Future of Liberty
• Ellis Island Click for more info Overview + History National Museum of Immigration Family History Center American Immigrant Wall of Honor The Role of the Foundation The Future of Ellis
• Foundation Click for more info Mission + History News Leadership + Governance Awards Our Blog: The Torch Careers
• Visit Click for more info Visit
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The Statue of Liberty Museum

Explore the meaning of liberty.

With its combination of breathtaking views and living history, the Statue of Liberty Museum stands as an inspiring and dynamic part of the Liberty Island experience, inviting visitors to dive into the story behind the sculpture and immerse themselves in unique artifacts.

Opened in 2019, the 26,000 square-foot museum is a destination unto itself. Beautifully designed, universally accessible, and housing an extraordinary and engaging collection of American heirlooms, the Museum enhances visits to the Island with interactive exhibits that enable visitors to explore the Statue’s grandeur without the need for additional advanced reservations or tickets.

WHAT TO SEE

The story of an icon.

Embark on a breathtaking, virtual fly-through of the Statue’s interior and enjoy a captivating multimedia adventure that introduces you to the sweeping story of Lady Liberty and the ideals she represents.

Building a Monument

Step inside the warehouse where Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi built the Statue of Liberty. A series of multimedia displays evokes the sculptor’s studio, taking you through the process of the monument’s construction.

Carrying the Torch

Your visit to the Statue of Liberty Museum culminates in the awe-inspiring Inspiration Gallery. Here visitors can add their portrait to the Becoming Liberty collage and get an up-close view of Liberty’s most recognizable symbol – her original torch.

BRINGING THE MUSEUM TO LIFE

Making of the museum.

Constructing a building on a small island in the middle of a busy harbor is no small feat! It took years of planning, hundreds of skilled workers, and contributions from thousands of generous donors to make the Statue of Liberty Museum a reality.

Museum Construction Time-Lapse

Relocating the Original Torch

The Founders Registry

The museum is able to preserve the promise of Lady Liberty through the support of our dedicated community and our generous Founders.

Our Major Donors

Inspired by all that Lady Liberty represents and the museum’s mission to tell her story, dozens of philanthropists answered the call to make the museum a reality.

Explore our Major Donors         Learn about the Star Donors 

Museum Information

The Statue of Liberty Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and legacy of a remarkable American treasure. Unique collections and modern galleries provide an enhanced educational experience, inviting visitors to contemplate the meaning of the Statue and explore history in thought-provoking ways.

A stirring and engaging destination, the Museum acts as an extension of the park and of the monument itself. By sharing Lady Liberty’s story, we provide a powerful lesson in the fragility of freedom, and help visitors gain a new appreciation for one of the world’s most inspiring icons.

Honoring her legacy

To commemorate the Statue of Liberty Museum, our generous supporters at Liberty Mutual Insurance commissioned a poem of hope and unity by U.S. Poet Laureate (2017-2019) Tracy K. Smith.

Ensuring her legacy

The Museum is made possible through the generosity of visitors like you. Help write her next verse by supporting our efforts.

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Visit the Statue of Liberty in New York | Ferry & Tickets

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | Visit the Statue of Liberty in New York | Ferry & Tickets

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Visiting the Statue of Liberty is a must-do if you go to the Big Apple, as it’s one of the most famous monuments in the city and the world.

The Statue of Liberty in New York was a gift from the French government to commemorate the centennial of the United States Declaration of Independence. A lesser-known fact is that the statue looks east towards France as a sign of gratitude. For centuries, Lady Liberty has been a symbol of freedom throughout the world, making it one of the best places to visit in New York City .

We spent the last five years living just two hours from NYC, and whenever we could, we’d escape to the City That Never Sleeps. Among the things we visited, the Statue of Liberty was one of the best!

Guide to visiting the Statue of Liberty in New York

In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about this monument, from how to get to the Statue of Liberty , how much tickets cost, tour options, and more. Of course, this is one of the most popular attractions in NYC, so I recommend booking your Statue of Liberty tickets in advance.

In a nutshell, this guide includes:

• Types of Statue of Liberty tickets

Statue of Liberty ticket prices

Statue of Liberty hours

Other tours that visit the Statue of Liberty

Where is the Statue of Liberty?

The Statue of Liberty is on Liberty Island, south of Manhattan. This means that the only way to get there is on one of the Statue of Liberty ferries that leave from Battery Park (Manhattan) or Liberty State Park (New Jersey).

Since Manhattan is one of the few places from which you can reach Liberty Island, visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the top things to do in Manhattan . In addition to Liberty Island, the ferries stop at nearby Ellis Island, home to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

Now that you know where the Statue of Liberty is , you should also know that it sits on a 155-ft pedestal. This increases the Statue of Liberty’s height to 305 feet, so you’ll easily be able to see it from the ferry .

Tickets to the Statue of Liberty (Statue CityCruises)

There are different types of Statue of Liberty tickets , so there are several ways to see this monument, which has a UNESCO World Heritage Designation.

If you want to take the self-guided Statue of Liberty tour , you must purchase your admission and roundtrip ferry ride through this website . You can leave from Battery Park or Liberty State Park, and I recommend booking your trip at least a couple of weeks in advance, or even longer during peak season.

Keep in mind that your Statue of Liberty ticket price depends on which type of tour you choose. Tickets to tour the Statue of Liberty’s crown are more expensive, but they tend to sell out first since they’re limited and offer an advantageous viewpoint.

Here are the other tour options for your Statue of Liberty visit .

General admission to the Statue of Liberty

For a quick visit to the Statue of Liberty in New York , a general admission ticket will do. The ticket, which you can purchase here , includes roundtrip ferry service from Battery Park or Liberty State Park.

A general admission ticket allows you to go around the island and view Lady Liberty from different points on the water, as well as access the Statue of Liberty Museum. However, you won’t be able to go inside the statue.

That said, this ticket includes a stop at Ellis Island, where you can access the Immigration Museum. So, it’s a good choice if you want to do a quick self-guided tour of the Statue of Liberty , or you’ve already visited this monument.

Statue of Liberty ticket with pedestal access

The Statue of Liberty ticket with pedestal access is available here and includes everything that’s included in general admission. Plus, you get access to the Fort Wood section and the Pedestal Viewpoint, so it’s a great option if you want a higher vantage point of Liberty Island.

This ticket costs the same as the general admission ticket, but there are only 1,000 tickets available per day, so they sell out quickly.

Statue of Liberty ticket with crown access

If you want to visit the Statue of Liberty’s crown , you’ll have to act fast and book your ticket here well in advance. This is the most comprehensive ticket, and there are only 240 of them available per day.

Along with a roundtrip Statue of Liberty ferry ticket , this ticket includes everything in the general admission and pedestal tickets, as well as access to Lady Liberty’s crown, one of the best observation decks in NYC .

Before you book it, keep in mind that you’ll have to climb 162 narrow steps to get up to the crown. There isn’t an elevator, but the climb is worth it!

Admission to the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Hospital (Hard Hat Tour)

If you’ve already visited the Statue of Liberty before and you’re looking for something different, book this Hard Hat Tour that includes access to the statue and the abandoned Ellis Island Hospital.

This Statue of Liberty tour includes a roundtrip ferry to and from Liberty Island, access to the Statue of Liberty Museum, a stop at Ellis Island, admission to the Immigration Museum, and a tour of the abandoned hospital. Keep in mind that you can’t go inside the Statue of Liberty with this ticket.

The abandoned Ellis Island Hospital served individuals with contagious and infectious diseases. Despite its gloomy appearance, many of the rooms are decorated with murals by street artist JR. Some of the murals depict actual patients from the hospital, making this a unique experience where you can learn more about the Statue of Liberty’s history .

The price of a Statue of Liberty ticket depends on the type of ticket you choose. However, I will say that there isn’t much difference between the general admission ticket and the one that grants you access to the pedestal. To give you a clearer idea of each ticket’s price and what it includes, here is a comparison chart:

The ticket that lets you visit the Statue of Liberty’s crown is the best option since it’s just $3 more and gives you splendid views of NYC . Of course, it’s also the first one to sell out, sometimes 2-3 months ahead of time. So, if this is the Statue of Liberty tour you want to do, I recommend booking it as soon as you can.

Attraction passes that include the Statue of Liberty in New York

Almost all New York city passes include a visit to Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty Museum. However, keep in mind that they only cover general admission, so you won’t be able to access the pedestal or crown.

With general admission, you get a roundtrip ferry ticket to the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park or Liberty State Park; access to the Statue of Liberty Museum; and a stop at Ellis Island and the Immigration Museum.

If you want to tour the Statue of Liberty ’s pedestal or crown or do the Hard Hat Tour, you must book your ticket through this website . You can’t use your New York citypass to get general admission, then pay the difference once you get to Liberty Island.

Ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The only way to get to Liberty Island is by taking the Statue of Liberty ferry operated by Statue Cruises. You can depart from the main terminal in Manhattan’s Battery Park, or from the terminal at Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Your ferry ride is included in your ticket, whether you depart from Manhattan or Jersey.

The ferry schedule to the Statue of Liberty varies depending on the terminal. Ferries from Battery Park (Manhattan) to Liberty Island depart every 25 minutes between 9 am and 4:30 pm, while those from Liberty State Park ( Jersey City ) leave every 30 minutes.

You can check the ferry schedule to the Statue of Liberty here . Of course, before setting sail, security controls similar to those at the airport are carried out, so I recommend you arrive 30 minutes before your reserved time. Also, don’t forget your passport and documentation!

The Statue of Liberty cruise by ferry takes about 15 minutes from Battery Park, stopping first at Liberty Island, then Ellis Island. The ride takes about 30 minutes from Liberty State Park since it takes the opposite route, going first to Ellis Island, then Liberty Island.

While both ferry routes stop at Ellis Island, many tourists choose not to get off there. If you have time, it’s worth visiting Ellis Island and walking through the Immigration Museum and the abandoned hospital.

Also, you don’t have to take the same ferry back to the terminal. In other words, you can depart from Battery Park and return on the ferry that leaves from Liberty State Park, or the other way around. Just remember that the New Jersey ferry stops at Ellis Island first and the Manhattan ferry stops there on the way back, and once you go past it, you can’t go back.

In any case, I suggest taking advantage of the ferry ride to take photos of the New York skyline and Lady Liberty, especially if you can find a good vantage point on the boat .

The Statue of Liberty’s hours sync up with the ferry schedule to the Statue of Liberty . The first ferry leaves at 9:15 am, while the last ferry departs at 6:15 pm, both in the direction of Battery Park and Liberty State Park.

Keep in mind that the last ferry back to Battery Park (Manhattan) stops at Ellis Island, and the last chance to catch the ferry from there to Battery Park is 6:30 pm. So, if you want to visit both Liberty and Ellis Islands, I suggest you plan accordingly.

While organizing your visit, you may be wondering how long it takes to visit the Statue of Liberty . It depends on several factors, including the type of ticket you purchase and whether you want to stop at Ellis Island or not. In general, plan 5-6 hours to ride the ferry and do the tour. This means you’ll want to take the 12 pm or 1 pm ferry at the latest to ensure you don’t have to rush to see everything. If you’re taking a one-week trip to NYC , you will have plenty of time to do so. For shorter trips, you may want to skip the full tour and take just this cruise to say hi to Lady Liberty.

Statue of Liberty Museum

The Statue Liberty Museum is one of the best museums in New York City , and all visitors to Liberty Island have access to the exhibits since it’s included with every ticket.

The museum is next to the jetty, where you can get beautiful views. Inside the museum, you’ll find several exhibits about the history of the Statue of Liberty , as well as facts and interesting information about the monument. There is also an exhibit with the statue’s original torch, historic photographs, and the preliminary sketches by designer Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi.

The Statue of Liberty Museum is open daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Ellis Island Immigration Museum

Tickets to the Statue of Liberty also include Ellis Island, although most people don’t get off at this stop. If you have time, I recommend checking out this small island, which has lovely viewpoints, and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. The abandoned Ellis Island Hospital is also here, although you’ll need to reserve this ticket if you want to tour it.

Your Statue of Liberty ticket includes admission to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, so it’s worth checking it out. This former immigration center is now a national monument and museum with over 30 galleries showing photographs, letters, historical information, and personal belongings from immigrants who passed through Ellis Island.

You can also see the Wall of Honor, which is inscribed with the names of those who crossed the border at Ellis Island. Without a doubt, it’s a wonderful accompaniment to your tour of the Statue of Liberty , as you can learn more about the challenges these people faced as they made the difficult decision to leave their countries in search of a better life .

Besides the tour options included in your Statue of Liberty ferry ticket , there are other guided tours you can take to see this monument. If you’re interested, I recommend looking at our article on the best Statue of Liberty tours in NYC .

I will say that this boat tour is a good alternative to the basic ticket since you’ll be led by an expert guide. If you’re on a budget, you could also see the Statue of Liberty for free by taking the Staten Island ferry. Of course, if you want something extra special, I recommend this helicopter flight over the Statue of Liberty or this dinner cruise past the monument.

FAQs about the Statue of Liberty in New York

If you still have doubts or concerns, here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions about the Statue of Liberty in New York :

Can I visit the Statue of Liberty without a tour?

Yes, you can visit the monument on your own as long as you have a Statue of Liberty ferry ticket .

How much does it cost to visit the Statue of Liberty?

Tickets to visit the Statue of Liberty start at just $24.

How long does it take to visit the Statue of Liberty?

Plan 5-6 hours to take the ferry ride, visit the Statue of Liberty , and stop at Ellis Island.

What are the Statue of Liberty hours?

The Statue of Liberty’s hours are linked to the ferry schedule, so you can be on the island from 9:15 am to 6:15 pm.

Where does the Statue of Liberty ferry depart from?

The ferry to the Statue of Liberty leaves from Battery Park in Manhattan and from Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

Where can I get the best view of the Statue of Liberty?

The best place to see the Statue of Liberty is from the ground on Liberty Island, or from the ferry arriving at Liberty Island. If you like photography and want to take in the sights, there’s nothing like a boat tour on the Hudson River that circles the Statue of Liberty.

When is the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty in New York?

The best time to visit the Statue of Liberty is first thing in the morning since you can spend more time there and avoid the larger crowds.

Can you go inside the Statue of Liberty for free?

No, you can’t go to the Statue of Liberty for free, but you can see it for free from Battery Island, Manhattan and Liberty State Park, New Jersey. Some other viewpoints overlooking the Hudson River also provide nice views of the monument.

When was the Statue of Liberty built?

The Statue of Liberty was built by French designer Frédéric Bartholdi in collaboration with Gustave Eiffel.

How tall is the Statue of Liberty?

The total height of the Statue of Liberty is 305 feet. The statue itself is 151 feet, while the pedestal is 154 feet tall.

What was the Statue of Liberty’s original color?

The original color of the Statue of Liberty was reddish-brown, but over time it has taken on a bluish-green color.

What is the history of the Statue of Liberty?

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States to mark the centennial of the Declaration of Independence. For this reason, the statue faces east, towards France.

That’s it for this guide to the Statue of Liberty in New York City . I hope it helps you organize your visit, and that you enjoy this famous monument! If you have any questions, or you’d like to share your experience touring the Statue of Liberty , you can leave me a comment below. Have a great trip!

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How to Visit the Statue of Liberty in New York

Oh, Lady Liberty.

As a transplanted New Jersey girl for the last 5 years, I’ve considered myself an “almost New Yorker” long before, having come to the city every summer since I was a child to visit my grandmother who lived by herself in Lower Manhattan. So, when my parents came to town this month and requested to take my kids to the Statue of Liberty National Monument, I was surprised that I didn’t actually know how to see the iconic copper lady already. And with Alec Baldwin’s recent Statue of Liberty faux pas this weekend where he and his wife Hilaria Baldwin–two savvy New Yorkers–were duped into buying a bogus tour of the Statue that really only took them on a shuttle bus jaunt TO NEW JERSEY(!?*/!!), I wanted to share my own tips from our recent trip to the Statue (which coincidentally, my family and I did on the very day that the Baldwins attempted to).

There’s a lot of information out there to sift through, and it can be difficult to know what’s what. And visiting the Statue of Liberty is not as straightforward as you’d think. I hope my Statue of Liberty travel guide helps you out––because, like Alec Baldwin said on social media yesterday, “NOONE EVER MENTIONED NEW F***ING JERSEY!!!” Keep reading below for a full breakdown of how we planned for our trip.

View of New York City from Liberty State Park (Jersey City, New Jersey).

Audio guide tour of Liberty Island grounds.

Planning Your Visit to the Statue of Liberty

One // Choose your departure location to leave by ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

Decide which ferry location you want to depart from: Liberty State Park (Jersey City, NJ) or Battery Park (Manhattan, NY) . We chose to depart from Liberty State Park because we live in New Jersey so this location is convenient to us, and because parking here is ample and only $7. If you choose Battery Park, you will be better off getting here via public transportation due to extremely limited parking in the city. My kids loved exploring Liberty State Park after we returned from the State of Liberty; the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal has old tracks and trains that they loved climbing on!

Two // Buy a ferry ticket, choose your level of access.

When you purchase a ferry ticket, you are also choosing which level of access you want to be included at Liberty Island. You can select from three ticket options: Grounds Reserve Ticket , Reserve with Pedestal Ticket , and Reserve with Crown Ticket .

1. Grounds Reserve Ticket: includes roundtrip ferry service, Ellis Island Immigration Museum, Statue of Liberty Grounds on Liberty Island, and Self-guided Audio Tour.

2. Reserve with Pedestal Ticket*: includes roundtrip ferry service, Ellis Island Immigration Museum, Statue of Liberty Grounds on Liberty Island, Self-guided Audio Tour, and access to Statue of Liberty Pedestal and Museum.

3. Reserve with Crown Ticket*: includes roundtrip ferry service, Ellis Island Immigration Museum, Statue of Liberty Grounds on Liberty Island, Self-guided Audio Tour, access to Statue of Liberty Pedestal and Museum, and access to Statue of Liberty up to the Crown.

Three // What are the pros and cons of each ticket type?

The pros are pretty obvious––You get to ride a ferry! You get to go inside our nation’s most famous statue!––so I’ll keep it simple. The Crown is very narrow and tight and has 162 steps up to the top. Only children taller than 48” and who can climb steps on their own are allowed Crown entry. Personally, the Crown doesn’t sound fun to me at all (I have claustrophobia) so I decided it would be better to wait on this when my kids are older (and taller). The Pedestal does have elevator access; however, the Pedestal gets crowded, the walkways are not wide, and small children will not be able to see over the high walls. And finally, well, the obvious downside to the Grounds Reserve ticket is that you don’t have access to the Statue–but if your kids are like mine, the ferry ride and gift shop (and audio guides which they had fun pretending were phones!) made up for things.

Tickets to the Pedestal and the Crown, in particular, are extremely limited and need to be secured in advance. Crown tickets typically sell out three months in advance, so if you’re thinking you can take a spontaneous family getaway to see Lady Liberty next weekend, think again––and PLAN AHEAD! Currently, all Crown tickets are sold out until January 2020. (During peak summer months, Crown tickets are reserved up to six months in advance.)

You could probably snag a Pedestal ticket if you plan just a few days to a week in advance, although you may find limited reserve entry times available on the day you choose. On the other hand, the Grounds Reserve tickets are the most widely available and you can likely secure them even just one or two days before. This is what we ended up with last weekend when I realized the night before we were planning to visit, that Crown and Pedestal was sold out. #MOMFAIL.

Four // Go purchase your tickets.

Now that you’ve considered things and decided on what type of ticket is right for you and your family, where do you get tickets? You can purchase ferry tickets online through Statue Cruises , the only official ferry service provider allowed to access the islands––ya know, not Freedom Cruises or Sphinx Transport or Tours R Us (ahem, Alec Baldwin), or any of the other scammers making a pretty penny off of tourists just to take them on an overpriced ferry ride that doesn’t actually stop on Liberty Island. Go online to the Statue Cruises website , or buy in person at the ticket office in Battery Park, NY (located inside historic Castle Clinton) or Liberty State Park, NJ (located by the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal). So, if there’s nothing else you take away from this post, remember these two words: Statue. Cruises.

When selecting your reservation date and time, please be aware this is simply your entry into the Security Facility at your departure point and not a specific ferry departure. Ferries depart from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. approximately every 20-35 minutes.

Five // Decide your trip strategy.

Do you want to go to Ellis Island Immigration Museum first, or to the Statue of Liberty? If you’re departing from NJ, the ferry’s first stop is Ellis Island (the ride takes about 15 minutes). You can choose to get off here or stay onboard for another 15-minute ride to Liberty Island. For my family, the main attraction was seeing the Statue, so that’s where we headed first. I also recommend skipping Ellis Island and going straight to Liberty Island so that you can beat some of the crowds. The downside to doing this is that if you do want to stop at Ellis on the way back later in the day, it could add on another 1.5/2 hours getting on a return ferry to New Jersey. (This is what the ferry attendant told us when we were deciding whether to go to Ellis afterwards.)

Other Tips for the Ferry Ride and the Statue of Liberty

What Not to Bring // All visitors bound for the Statue of Liberty must pass through an airport-style security checkpoint before boarding the ferry at Liberty State Park and Battery Park. So, basically anything that you couldn’t get past TSA, don’t attempt to bring onboard the ferry––drugs, weapons, firearms, pocket knives, etc, but also luggage, drones, skateboards, and scooters, much to my kids’ disappointment. Bring anti-nausea medication if you are prone to sea sickness (the day we went was extremely windy and rocky). Don’t forget to bring jackets or layers as being on and near the water can feel much colder.

Where to Eat on Liberty Island // On Liberty Island, you can grab cafeteria-style food at the Crown Café, which is located in the Gift Shop. It’s pretty chaotic in the ordering lines and if you have hangry kids in your family, be prepared to allow an extra 15 to 20 minutes for ordering and picking up your food before getting in another line to pay.

Have you visited the Statue of Liberty, or do you have plans to soon? Tell me about your experience below!

The historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal at Liberty State Park (New Jersey).

The historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal at Liberty State Park (New Jersey)

• Top Attractions
• Tourist Attractions

Statue of Liberty

New York’s most famous symbol, the Statue of Liberty, also known as Liberty Enlightening the World, is found on Liberty Island.

This colossal monument of 151 feet 1 inch from base to torch, located on an island in Upper New York Bay, can only be visited by ferry. To get to the boat visitors have to head to the dock in Battery Park in Downtown Manhattan.

The Statue of Liberty was inaugurated in October 1886 and was given to the Americans by the French to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In 1984 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The statue was designed by Gustave Eiffel , the same architect responsible for the Eiffel Tower .

Visiting its Observation Deck 

On the 4 of July 2009 , coinciding with Independence Day of the United States (a very important date for the Statue), the access to the pedestal was reopened . It had previously been closed since the 9/11 attacks.

To go up to the pedestal  you'll have to buy the tickets on the Internet weeks in advance , otherwise, it’s impossible to visit the statue's observation deck since only 30 people can enjoy the views per hour.

• Statue Cruises

Another option is to reserve a guided tour of the statue and Ellis Island, ideal for those who want a deep dive into the history and significance of New York's most famous lady.

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour

Useful Tips

If you want to avoid queuing, we suggest arriving at Battery Park as soon as they open the dock and start selling the boat tickets. This way, you'll be able to skip the lines and you might be lucky enough to access the inside of the Statue since there are very few places available. 

If you arrive after 10 am, the line usually takes about an hour until you can take the ferry to Liberty Island. What's more, make sure you have enough time to visit Ellis Island , which is the next stop after Liberty Island. You should take a ferry before  2 pm to give yourself enough time to visit both islands. 

Liberty Island , southeast of Manhattan.

The first ferry departs at 9 am (although this may vary at different times of year). To come back to Manhattan, the last ferry leaves Liberty Island at 3 pm. Open every day of the year except on 25 December.

The ferry price includes a visit to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Adults: US$ 24 Children (agef 4-12): US$ 12 Seniors (over 62): US$ 18 Free with the New York Pass .

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour US$ 69

Ferry from Battery Park. To get to the dock: Subway : South Ferry (line 1), Whitehall St/South Ferry (lines R and W) or Bowling Green (lines 4 and 5). Bus : lines M1, M6 and M15.

Nearby places

Ellis Island (1.2 km) Wall Street (3.5 km) The New York City Police Museum (3.5 km) Federal Hall (3.5 km) 9/11 Memorial (3.6 km)

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How to Visit Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

No visit to New York is complete without seeing Statue of Liberty. There are several ways how to visit one of the world's most famous statues and Ellis Island, and in this post, we will outline how to buy tickets, and whether it is better to travel independently, with a tour or only to take a ferry passing around the statue.

Do you want to tick off visiting the Statue of Liberty from your list of must-visit attractions when in New York?

So did we, but to our surprise, finding accurate information about ways of transport and tickets were harder to get than we had expected (or at least not that straightforward we thought it would be), despite the fact that the Statue of Liberty is visited by more than 4 million people yearly.

Honestly, we cannot imagine traveling to New York and not to visit the Lady and Ellis Island, although we could have viewed it from the mainland from a distance, and although this attraction is so notoriously known that we'd seen pictures of the statue from every angle possible before our actual visit.

One of the reasons is that the Statue of Liberty is not only a large sculpture, a symbol of technical masterpieces from the late 19th century, but it is also a symbol of hope and freedom, symbol of new beginnings and dreams.

In other words, for us, the Statue of Liberty was together with the Empire State Building , Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park, the most-sought attraction in New York.

A BRIEF HISTORY AND FACTS ABOUT THE STATUE OF LIBERTY

The island where the Statue of Liberty stands has had many names from time immemorial such as Bedloes Island or the Island of Hope, but today the island is officially known as Liberty Island - sometimes the best ideas are the simplest ones, right?

The statue was a gift from French intellectuals and anti-slavery activists who were driven to provide the USA with a symbol of liberty and rights, commodities still short in supply for many people at that time.

A French sculptor Frederic Bartholdi designed the sculpture and famous Gustave Eiffel, whose Eiffel Tower in Paris is nowadays another one of the most visited attractions in the world, contributed as well.

The full name of the Statue of Liberty is Liberty Enlightening the World, and the statue measures 93 meters and weights 204 tonnes.

The creators found inspiration for the statue of a woman in Roman liberty goddess who holds a torch in her right hand above her head and carries a book with date 1776 (American Declaration of Independence) in her left hand.

The opening ceremony of the Statue of Liberty was held in 1886 (conveniently to mark 100 years of American Independence), and since then, millions of people are driven to spot the symbol of a new era in the USA.

We must emphasize here that in the early 20th century the statue had an even deeper meaning for hundreds of thousands of people than it has for tourists (including us) today.

The Statue of Liberty was the first thing immigrants saw from boats when arriving in the USA, and it meant that the long and tiring journey is over.

But it did not mean that from now on they can live better lives, because their first steps led to Ellis Island, where they had to pass a series of examinations, both medical and psychological, to be finally admitted entering the country.

When they did not pass the test, they had to embark the boat and return to their home country.

IS STATUE OF LIBERTY FREE TO VISIT?

When looking for information on how to visit the Statue of Liberty, we were, of course, excited to read that this landmark is free of charge, but we soon found out it is not entirely true.

Yes, visiting Liberty Island and Ellis Island is technically free of charge, but as names suggest, we are talking about islands here, and you need to take a ferry to get there, which costs money.

The other option is honestly free, but you won't be stepping on the islands but only stay on a boat passing by.

We recommend this option only for travelers on a strict budget or for people who are not that interested in visiting the Statue of Liberty but still want to have a closer look.

This possibility means you need to take a free Staten Island ferry which runs every half an hour (24/7) from The Whitehall Terminal between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island.

Return journey should take you an hour or an hour and a half when you opt to get back to Manhattan straight away.

While this ferry is free, do not forget that the main purpose of this transportation is to get people from Manhattan to Staten Island, not to provide its passengers with solely the best views of the Statue of Liberty.

HOW TO VISIT STATUE OF LIBERTY

Visiting the Statue of Liberty is quite easy, but you need to know a couple of things.

First, when you want to step on Liberty Island and Ellis Island, you need to take a ferry from either Manhattan and New Jersey (we recommend to make your reservation in advance).

Ferries run approximately every 15 to 20 minutes with a scheduled route Manhattan (New Jersey) - Liberty Island - Ellis Island - Manhattan (New Jersey).

We never had to wait more than 10 minutes for the ferry, so no worries.

Second, you can visit both islands independently, but if you prefer guided tours, you can find a large number of travel agents in New York who can help you out, only make sure they don't offer only a boat ride around the Statue of Liberty without stopping on the islands.

You can also find a many tours to the Statue of Liberty.

This Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour is popular.

WHERE TO BUY TICKETS

Officially, The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World is a National Monument, and employees of National Park Service take care of it therefore, the visit is theoretically free of charge, but you need to pay the ferry ticket to get on Liberty Island which cost $18.50 for an adult.

The only authorized company running ferries to Liberty Island with permission to land is Statue Cruises.

You can easily purchase tickets online, and either decide to pick the tickets up on site before ferry departure, or you can print them out at home (but you still need to go to the booth at Castle Clinton fort and get original tickets).

If you prefer to visit Statue of Liberty with a local guide, you can book your the skip-the-line tickets together with the tour in advance, and don't need to worry about booking tickets at all.

When in New York, the chances are that you will want to visit more attractions, so it is worthwhile to purchase New York City Pass .

It includes 6 New York attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, and we used the pass to the maximum.

When you have the pass, you only need to present your ticket at Castle Clinton ticket windows in exchange for the ferry ticket (you cannot make a reservation for any time slot, so we recommend to show up early).

The pass includes only tickets for the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

In case you want to visit either the crown or the pedestal you need to buy a ticket with Statue Cruises, but in that case, you can use your pass for Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises instead.

WHEN YOU HAVE YOUR TICKET

When we arrived at Castle Clinton in Battery Park with tickets for the specific time for the ferry in a pocket, we were at first quite confused (not only because we had troubles to find connections in NYC metro and arrived a bit late), because the queue of people waiting for tickets was ridiculously long.

Do not get intimidated.

Once the gate opened, the staff told us the ticket booth number where we should have picked up official tickets, and the line moved surprisingly fast.

Do not get to the queue before your pre-reserved time slot (go there only when you have City Pass without assigned time). When we had tickets, we went to another line and waited for the security screen.

The whole process took approximately 30 minutes before we stepped on the boat to Liberty Island.

Also, we were a bit nervous because our ticket said that the reservation was for 8 AM and we were running a bit late, but a staff member calmed us down because the 8 AM time means it is the earliest we could get to security (the first ferry leaves Battery Park at 8:30 AM).

We think it is the best to turn out at Battery Park about 30 minutes before the time you have stated on your ticket.

WHEN ON THE FERRY

Do you know the saying that sometimes the destination can be the journey?

Arriving closer to Liberty Island and seeing the Lady up close for the first time can be a very emotional moment.

To get the best views (and photos), once you get on the ferry, go to the top deck and find an empty spot on the right side of the boat.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum and Ground Zero: Visitors Guide A Photoguide to Exploring the High Line in New York

CRUISE DEPARTURE POINTS

Cruises to the Statue of Liberty usually depart from two official points and depending on the way you booked your tickets, you can either choose your departure point, or it will be assigned to you.

The most popular place from where you can get to Liberty Island is Battery Park in New York in Lower Manhattan.

It is easily accessible by metro (get off either at World Trade Center, Wall Street or at the closest station to Battery Park, Bowling Green), and usually the most convenient for tourists staying in the city center of New York.

Another access point is from New Jersey, and this option is better for people traveling by car or with a tour as there is a public parking lot.

WHAT TO DO ON THE LIBERTY ISLAND

When you disembark on Liberty Island, there are several things you can do.

When you have a ticket for either crown or pedestal, it is better to get there as soon as possible, because you will have to again wait in a line and go through another security check (you should get two tickets at a ticket booth on Manhattan or in New Jersey - one for the ferry, and one for the access to the statue - here at the base of the sculpture, you should get a wristband in exchange for the ticket).

When on the island, you can, of course, walk around the Lady to see her from every angle possible, and admire how large the statue is.

When you have enough time, don't miss a free, about an hour long ranger walk around the island.

Ask at the information center for the next available session as we think it is much more interesting to learn about the island and its history from a knowledgeable person than listen to the audio guide.

The audio guide is included in the ferry ticket, so do not forget to pick it up at the white booth on your right after you enter Liberty Island.

After admiring the New York's skyline, head to the museum where is an exposition explaining the way from the idea of constructing the Statue of Liberty to the final product we can see today.

HOW LONG IN ADVANCE YOU NEED TO BOOK THE TICKETS

New York is one of the most sought-after destinations, so you won't make a mistake when you secure your tickets, not only for the Statue of Liberty well in advance.

Generally, closer to the summer season (May to September) you travel, earlier you should book your tickets.

When you want to book only a ferry ticket, under normal circumstances you should not have a problem to make a reservation three or four days before your travel dates, although most popular morning slots can be already fully booked.

Note that when visiting New York on weekends or during national holidays, the attraction is busier, and we would have booked tickets at least one week before the actual visit.

When it comes to booking tickets to crown or pedestal, it is a different story because of daily limits. Tickets serve on first come first serve basis, but you cannot buy them on the same day at the ticket booth, the only way is to book them online.

We recommend reserving the pedestal ticket at least a month in advance, and the even more limited crown access at least three months in advance.

Even when visiting offseason, you should know that crown tickets are not available on the day while the pedestal tickets are highly likely to be unavailable on the day (but miracles can happen).

HOW TO VISIT THE PEDESTAL AND THE CROWN

For some people, the visit to the Statue of Liberty would not have been complete without getting inside the structure.

Although according to our opinion, views from inside the statue are not that spectacular, it is for sure unique experience and hadn't we booked our trip to New York last-minute, we would have for sure tried to get inside.

To ensure you will have access to the crown, you need to book your ticket well in advance as the limit of visitors is only 240 people daily.

When reserving the crown ticket, we recommend you to do so (as well as the pedestal booking) with the authorized ferry company Statue Cruises to avoid disappointment.

Surprisingly, you don't need to pay much more for the privilege to visit the crown it cost only an additional $3 ($21.50 total), but you must pay attention for requirements.

First, make sure you are fit enough to climb 162 narrow steps from pedestal to the crown as there is no elevator access.

Everyone, including children and elderly, must be able to get to the top on own, without any help, so obviously, the crown is not wheelchair accessible.

All visitors to the crown of the Statue of Liberty must show at the ticket booth before entering Liberty Island valid ID (except for minors) without exception.

You can buy only four tickets for the crown at one session, only once in six months.

Around 1000 people are allowed every day to access the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty. In order to get there, you need to either conquer 215 steps or take a very slow elevator.

This ticket cost the same as the classic ferry ticket, so when you have time and tickets are available for your travel dates, we would have opted for this alternative.

For both, the crown and the pedestal, strict rules apply, and you cannot take any personal items with you, including food and drinks, so you need to use lockers on site for 25 cents.

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Travel smarter and safer!

HOW MUCH TIME DO I NEED

When you decide to enjoy the iconic structure of the USA up close, and you booked your tickets to either pedestal or the crown, the average visit, when you also spend some time in the museum on Liberty Island and in the museum on Ellis Island, is between five or six hours.

Generally, visiting the Statue of Liberty is a half-day thing, and you should include enough time not to rush your itinerary.

As we are not that organized and planned our travels to New York last-minute, we were not able to purchase pedestal or crown tickets as in late May they were already sold out, and the whole experience took us four hours.

ELLIS ISLAND

When buying tickets or tour for the Statue of Liberty, the permission also include access to Ellis Island, but we think there is a reason why to stop by at Ellis Island other than it is for free.

As we mentioned before, even though the Statue of Liberty was for many immigrants the symbol of hope, Ellis Island was actually the place where their American Dream could either begin or end before it even had started.

That's why the nickname, Island of Hope or Island of Tears. Between years 1892 and 1924 Ellis Island was the main gateway to the USA.

That's why nowadays Ellis Island has an interesting museum dedicated to immigration, to immigrant's fate and hardships back in the days.

It shows how the process of immigration worked in the past, but there is also one wing of the museum focused on a modern phenomenon of immigration.

WHERE TO STAY IN NEW YORK

New York is a city with no shortage of accommodation, but it is not always easy to find a reasonably priced hotel in a good location.

Be prepared to pay a bit more than usual as this is one of the top world's destinations, and we recommend you to book your room as soon as you know your travel dates.

Budget | Pod 51 - We won't lie to you - it is almost impossible to find a budget-friendly accommodation which is not a hole with terrible reviews. This hostel is well-located and well-rated, features modern and clean facilities and excellent rooftop.

Mid-range | RIU Plaza New York Times Square - The extraordinary location only a few meters away from Times Square, great breakfast, helpful staff, and comfortable rooms makes from this hotel one of the best accommodation options when in the city.

Luxury | The Plaza - The most iconic hotel in New York City lies close to Central Park and 5th Avenue and if you are looking for a splendid place to stay with a touch of luxury, look no further.

Alternatively, search for your accommodation via Hostelworld .

Travel Resources

Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.

Accommodation : When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld .

Tours : Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.

We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator .

Rental Cars : When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.

Flight Tickets : When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.

Travel Insurance : World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.

Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

A person cannot go to New York without seeing the Statue of Liberty. But with limited time, how do you decide when to go, how much to see and what options are available? We have visited Lady Liberty three times on our visits to New York. These tips for visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are our first-hand accounts of what to expect.

Let our experiences be your guide and help you plan your New York City Vacation.

Table of Contents

Tips for how to Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

How Long Is it to Visit the Statue of Liberty?

When visiting the Statue of Liberty be prepared for a long day. Queues to the ferry can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. The Statue of Liberty and museum take approximately 90 minutes to see and Ellis Island is another one hour to 90 minutes. If you follow our advice, you won’t have to wait for long and can make the most of your time visiting the Statue of Liberty.

Ferry wait times for security at Battery Park and ferries to and from Liberty and Ellis Island take time and with lines, you may have to wait for two ferries to go by before getting one. So the entire experience of visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island could easily be 5 – 6 hours.

Many people book months in advance and if you are visiting during high season, we recommend doing so. Especially when making reservations for the crown and pedestal. If you haven’t made an advanced reservation it is still possible to visit the Statue of Liberty free from hassles.

Give yourself 5 – 6 hours to visit both Liberty and Ellis Islands.

Visit Statue of Liberty or Take a Cruise?

Depending on your time in New York, you will need to make the decision of visiting Liberty Island itself or simply taking one of the many statue cruises offered to get a view of her from the water. Whatever you decide, you are going to love it. The Statue of Liberty is the most iconic statue in the world and is not to be missed!

You can book this 90 Minute Cruise of New York City – If you don’t have time to visit the Statue of Liberty, take this cruise to see the iconic sites of midtown and lower Manhattan on a Semi-Circle Cruise. See Lady Liberty and Ellis Island. Sail down the Hudson, cruising around the Battery, and up the East River. You’ll pass under the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg Bridges to the United Nations – and then head back to Pier 83

How to Get to the Statue of Liberty

The statue of Liberty ferry and ticket office is located at Battery Park in Manhattan. Ferries open at 8:30 am and we suggest getting there as early as possible to be at the front of the line.

We caught the Number 1 Red Line Subway from our downtown Manhattan hotel to the South Ferry Station near Battery Park. You can buy a MetroPass at machines in entrances to the Subway. Machines take cash or credit and you can load your pass as needed.

• Take the 4 or  5  trains to Bowling Green.
• Take the R train to Whitehall Street.

When you walk out of the subway, there will be several people standing to offer information. Some are selling tours, but others are there to help. If someone tries to sell you a tour, politely decline and go directly to the ticket office. We told them we had a New York Pass already and they left us alone while kindly offering directions.

If you want to relax with a guide, book this Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island Pre-Ferry Tour – This 30 minute guided tour takes you through Battery Park and offers crowd-free access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Visit the Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty

If you want to go up to the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, you need to book in advance for your time. It is no extra cost, but times are booked on a first-come-first-served basis. So if you arrive at 8:30 with a bunch of other people, they may already have their reserved time and you will have to wait even longer.

When booking directly from the Government Website, you will receive skip-the-line tickets through security which can save time.

Visiting the Crown of the Statue of Liberty

To visit the crown of the Statue of Liberty tickets cost an extra $3. You should also book ahead of time (we have read up to three months in advance) at the website as times are designated on a first come first serve basis as well. Reservations will also put you ahead of the line to go through security when entering the Statue of Liberty ferry terminal.

Visit the Statue of Liberty Museum

Visiting the Statue of Liberty Museum is included in your ferry service tickets to the islands, and you don’t have to schedule a time to go in.

Get the New York Pass

Our New York Pass included our visits to the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and ferry service to each. If you don’t have a New York Pass, we suggest getting your tickets ahead of time at www.statuecruises.com . Or if you are there early in the morning, you can purchase directly from the ticket office inside the Clinton Castle.

Note: The New York Pass does not offer “skip the line tickets.” When you do arrive at Battery Park, you still need to go inside the Castle to get your boarding pass, so you will have to stand in line for tickets regardless.

Take Guided Tours of the Statue of Liberty

Viator offers guided tours of Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Reserve Line Access boarding on the ferry to Liberty Island.

Guided visit to the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island Explore the grounds at Liberty Island and upgrade for pedestal access View exhibits at the Great Hall inside the Immigration Museum on Ellis Island Early Reserve Line boarding on the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. It includes a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island,  exhibits at the Great Hall inside the Immigration Museum on Ellis Island, and early boarding.

Security at The Statue of Liberty Ferry

Going through security to board the ferry is similar to going on a plane. Open bottles of water are not allowed. We had to drink our water before going through security. Either, keep your bottle sealed until after you go through security or bring a reusable bottle that has no liquid in it and fill it up afterward. If you are unsure about what to bring leave it in the hotel room. If it is confiscated at security, you will not get it back!

• No large bags are allowed on the ferry.
• No sharp objects are allowed through security.
• No drones are allowed on the ferry.

Best View from the Ferry to the Statue of Liberty

If you want the best view on the way out to Liberty Island, stand on the right-hand side facing the dock . Most people go to the left looking out at the water, but once the boat moves, the best views are from the right.

Outside, upstairs or at the back is best for views of the New York skyline on the way out to the Statue of Liberty. Read more: 30 Best New York Views – Where to See the Manhattan Skyline

There is a snack bar on the ferry where you can buy snacks and drinks. The toilets on the ferry are clean and in good working condition.

At the Statue of Liberty

When you arrive at Liberty Island, be sure to check the ferry times as you walk out for your trip onward. We planned for 90 minutes at the statue so we kept an eye out for the ferry that was scheduled 2 hours after our visit. That way we could have a 30-minute cushion should the line be too long (which it always is).

It was a pleasant stroll walking around Liberty Island seeing the views of Lady Liberty from every possible angle. She really is an impressive sight. The views of the Manhattan skyline are outstanding from here so be sure to take it in from every angle.

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The Statue of Liberty Museum

The Statue of Liberty Museum opened in May 2019 and your ticket does include access to this museum for free. Inside there are interactive displays, a 10-minute multimedia display, and a gallery showcasing the history of how it was made and what Lady Liberty represents. The inspiration gallery where the original torch is on display was our favorite.

Before leaving the museum, we went outside to the rooftop deck for outstanding views of the statue and the skyline. When visiting Liberty Island, don’t miss going to the museum.

Ellis Island Immigration Museum

The next stop on the tour is Ellis Island. The ferry to Ellis Island is free when you leave from Liberty Island, and you can either get off the boat to explore or take it directly back to Battery Park. A lot of people skip this, but we loved our visit to Ellis Island.

The Great Hall – Ellis Island

The Great Hall is the first thing you will see on Ellis Island. Just like the 12 million immigrants who saw it for the first time when arriving in America between 1892 – 1924. This Ellis Island Museum is dedicated to the people who waited for access to the United States searching for a better way of life.

Today, many people come to Ellis Island to trace their ancestry. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately) no Bouskills or Corbeils were on the list of immigrants who came through here.

Great hopes were placed on life in the new world, but the new immigrants faced many hardships from child labor, low wages, and cramped quarters. But it was here that many began their American Dream.

Make your way up to the second floor for an excellent collection of photos displaying the history of Ellis Island. The images are haunting and inspiring all at once.

On the third floor, you will see a recreation of the sleeping quarters for new immigrants awaiting entrance to New York City. Beds were stacked 3 berths high on canvas cots that could be raised during the day. The third floor also offers an overhead view of the Grand Hall where people awaited their hearings regarding citizenship.

We spent quite a while perusing the photos and history of Ellis Island. While many people skip it, if you have the time, we say don’t miss it.

By visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island first thing in the morning, we had the rest of the day to explore more sights in Manhattan. From the Statue of Liberty, we recommend visiting Wall Street including the Charging Wall Street Bull, and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

These are all within walking distance from Battery Park and are must-see attractions when visiting New York.

• See our complete New York Itinerary that Includes our visit to the Statue of Liberty
• If you want to see more New York Ideas visit our 33 Ways to Make the Most of Manhattan

Statue of Liberty Tips

• Stand on the port side (right side) at the back of the ferry going out to the Statue of Liberty.  It will give you the best views of the city and of the statue as you approach.
• Book ahead of time on the Government Website, for reserved tickets and skip the security lines.
• If you want to go up to the crown of the Statue of Liberty, book your tour at least a week in advance a
• Make sure to go to the Ellis Island Museum and visit all of the floors for the full experience.
• If you are planning on seeing a few New York Sites like the Statue of Liberty, the Top of the Rock, The Empire State Building and the Museums – Metropolitan, Natural History, MOMA and more, get the New York Pass to expedite your experience and save a lot of money.
• If you have a New York Pass or City Pass, you must go into the ticket office at the castle to receive a boarding pass.
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If you enjoyed our Statue of Liberty tips, save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Note:   We received our first New York City Pass through a conference we attended in New York City in 2011. New York is not paying us or expecting us to endorse the pass. It came with our purchase of tickets to the conference. However, we always find it to be an amazing deal and asset during our travels around New York so we wanted to share it with you all.

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18 thoughts on “Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island”

Thanks so much for these wonderful photography and travel tips. I will be using this for our trip.

Excellent blog!!

Really informative article! I feel if you have a bit of money to spare, taking a helicopter ride can be a great idea. It gives you a great view of the statue of liberty. Plus, you do not have to wait for hours in lines!

Such great information of the Liberty and Ellis Island , Thank you! Dave and Deb for sharing .

Hey, thank you for this article, it is really one of the most comprehensive on the topic. You can not go to New York and not visit the Statue of Liberty or Elis island, so we are planning to see both places, but we were a little worried bout the logistic aspect. You covered that, so now we are relaxed and ready to start our summer vacation. Thanks again and i love your travel blog!

Hello Dave and Deb Thank you for sharing your Great post, Love to read your post, you are using so normal words which is easy for everybody.

Thank you very much.

You are justa amazing.Your advice,your trips,your tips ara awasome..Thank you planetD..Greetings from Greece.I will visit toronto for 5 days and New York for 7 days at octomber.Do you think its fair enough??

Wow, things have really changed since I visited the Statue of Liberty! There were no special passes or several month waits to visit the crown. Now that I think of it, I visited in February of 2001, so it was cold and that was before 9/11. It’s sad to see the skyline without the Twin Towers. .-= Jennifer Barry´s last blog ..Trains- Cars and Funiculars- Getting Around Santiago =-.

Two years ago, with New York City Pass tickets, we had been to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, but we too couldn’t go upto the crown. But still being near the famous Statue and strolling there was a great feeling. Visiting Ellis Island Museum was also a memorable experience.

Living uptown in NYC, I hardly ever even get a glimpse of the beautiful Statue of Liberty. It’s a shame because she’s so beautiful. Glad you got a chance to visit her.

My grandfather came through Ellis Island (from Poland at age 11) — I find it so exciting that he was part of such a momentous time in US history. His story could have been lifted out of a textbook. He really embodied the American Dream of that era. .-= Travelogged´s last blog ..Celebrating July 4th in Cold Spring- NY =-.

Wow, that is amazing Liz. It was quite a monumental time in history. A whole country was being built on immigrants and what an amazing country it turned out to be.

Correction: if you want to go up to the crown you have to book MONTHS in advance (in the summer)! We booked about 5 weeks ahead and could only get into the base. .-= Carlo Alcos´s last blog ..New York City Rules- Signs of Civilization =-.

Wow! Thanks for the tip. 5 Weeks is a long time in advance. Sorry you didn’t make it to the crown, but the base seemed like it was worth it too. The crowds seemed very light up there.

One more tip: If you’re going up the statue, do NOT bring a backpack. They will make you check it…they’ll let you in with a small bag like a purse. But the security is stricter than at an airport (they even have body scanning devices).

Carlo! Thanks for the great information. We didn’t bring a backpack so we didn’t even think of this advice. But you are absolutely right, I remember hearing announcements that you will have to check large bags and backpacks. Security is very strict at the Statue of Liberty. It is much better to go with less. Thanks again for the great tips!

Oh, this is a really nice post! I just love your photos! I’ll keep this post in mind for future trip there 🙂 .-= Lifecruiser Travel Blog´s last blog ..The Farms Wild Cats =-.

I really wish that I’d had time to use the CityPass – it really is an amazing deal but I didn’t allow enough time – next time I’m in NYC I’ll know better.

Seeing Lady Liberty was also a highlight for me, although I only got to see her from the Ferry, it was still a moving sight. Good to know that you have to plan ahead if you want to visit the platform or crown – I also have distant memories of peeking out from the crown when I was a young child on a field trip in grade school that included Liberty & Ellis islands, the Empire State Building, and the UN. .-= Trisha Miller´s last blog .. Know How To Do Something Enter This Contest- =-.

The good news is your CityPass doesn’t expire. You have 9 days from the first use to get it all in. It seems that we all have the distant memory of peaking out the crown. That sounds like an amazing school trip.

The Best Ways to See the Statue of Liberty for FREE!

Different ways to see the statue of liberty.

Seeing the Statue of Liberty is obligatory when visiting New York. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, so find out the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty without spending a dime.

Table of Contents

The Best Ways to See Statue of Liberty

The obvious way to see the Statue of Liberty is by visiting Liberty Island ! In order to see her up close, explore the pedestal or even enter the crown, you need to take the ferry to the island. Another increasingly popular way to see the statue of liberty is by taking a cruise around New York. There are plenty of cruises that pass Lady Liberty , providing you with the perfect photo opportunity. Although these are all great options to get fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty, there are several spots in New York City (and New Jersey!) for you to enjoy amazing views of the Statue of Liberty for free !

1. Governors Island

Our favorite view of the Statue of Liberty is from Governors Island! The former military base is located in New York harbor, South of Manhattan and separated from Brooklyn by the Buttermilk Channel. Today, Governors Island is the ultimate summer destination that lets you escape the hustle of the city. The island hosts lots of events during the summer and you can always just have a picnic, go for a walk or cycle the island.

Governors Island is pretty hilly, offering you elevated views of the Statue, but even from the flat areas, you get unobstructed views. A roundtrip ferry ticket will cost you $3.  So technically that means it’s not completely free, however, it can be! In order to enjoy free rides, hop on the ferry on Saturdays and Sundays before noon. The only catch is that Governors Island is not open all year round. It opens for a few months a year, from May through October to be exact! If you’re not visiting New York during these months, don’t worry: there are several more options for you to see the Statue of Liberty for free.

• Address: Ferry departure from Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street
• Directions:  1 to South Ferry

more about governors island

2. Battery Park

Most of you probably know that you can see the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park. It’s also where the Statue Cruise to Liberty Island departs from Manhattan. The views of the Statue of Liberty from here never fail to amaze us. The park stands in great contrast to the busy city, as you cannot only enjoy the greenery but also the relaxing waterfront . This is topped by the view of the Statue of Liberty!

What we like best about the view from Battery Park is the view during sunset . It’s truly exceptional. The sun sets behind the Statue of Liberty, creating a colorful explosion in the sky, leaving you with the perfect silhouette.

While at Battery Park, check out Pier A Harbor House!

At Pier A Harbor House you can enjoy lunch or dinner AND breathtaking views! For us, it’s one of the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty and relax by the water. Especially during a long day of sightseeing in New York, this can be a great break.

• Address: Battery Park
• Directions: 4   5  to Bowling Green

more about battery park

3. Liberty State Park

Ever thought about heading to New Jersey to get a view of the Statue of Liberty? If you haven’t considered it yet, then you should definitely do so now! Liberty State Park is not only a beautiful park, but it also offers you unobstructed views of New York’s skyline , including Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Compared to Battery Park, you’ll also be much closer to the Statue of Liberty . Liberty State Park is located in Jersey City, so you can easily get there within minutes by taking the PATH .

Although New Jersey is gaining increasing popularity, you can still expect to see smaller crowds here as most tourists don’t leave New York City. There’s no doubt that Liberty State Park is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty from New Jersey!

• Address: Liberty State Park, Jersey City
• Directions: PATH to Exchange Place

4. The Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is a commuter ferry that travels between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island. On its way, it passes the Statue of Liberty. The distance is about half a mile (1 km). The ferry is completely free at all times , meaning you do not only get a free ferry ride, but also a free glance at the Statue of Liberty. The ferry departs regularly throughout the day. You can check out the Staten Island Ferry schedule beforehand.

• Address: Ferry from Whitehall Terminal at 4 Whitehall St

more about the staten island ferry 

Is that it?

Well, kind of! You can technically see the Statue of Liberty from High Line Park and the Brooklyn Bridge ! Both are free to visit, but due to the distance however, Lady Liberty will look tiny, so it’s recommended you try one of our four options above!

If you’re visiting the One World Observatory, you can also enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty!

Should you already have tickets for the One World Observatory  you can expect to see the Statue of Liberty from the viewing platform there, too. Luckily, the One World Observatory is included in some New York Attraction Passes , meaning you can visit it at a reduced rate as opposed to paying full price.

All Statue of Liberty Ticket Options

The Statue of Liberty, also known as Lady Liberty, is a universal symbol of freedom. She was a gift from France for the country’s 100th birthday. It was designed by Gustave Eiffel and built in...

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Attractions

Statue of liberty.

© Statua della Libertad

The Statue of Liberty is the foremost symbol of the United States , the national monument. This magnificent statue, which defends all the values associated with its name, has become one of New York’s main tourist attractions .

• Visit the Statue of Liberty & Liberty Island

Overview of your visit to the Statue of Liberty

It is often seen in American films. It is the emblem of the United States in the same way as the Empire State Building , the Statue of Liberty is absolutely fascinating. So imagine yourself taking a close look at this titanic monument.

To visit the Statue of Liberty is to realise the “American dream” by discovering one of the iconic monuments of New York and the USA. No trip to the Big Apple is complete without a visit to this legendary statue. Board a ferry and treat yourself to a unique cruise on Liberty Island. Before you fly to New York, it’s important to prepare your trip well and book your trip to the Statue of Liberty in advance. Here’s all the information you need to plan your trip.

Standing 93 metres tall, the Statue of Liberty stands proudly on Liberty Island in New York City Bay, close to the neighbouring island of Ellis Island , located in New York Harbour south of Manhattan.

This iconic monument, listed as a National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents the United States’ commitment to freedom and democracy . Its historic importance as a symbol of welcome for migrants has made it one of the most visited sites in the world .

During your stay in New York, a visit to the Statue of Liberty is a must. While tourists come to see the Statue of Liberty to learn more about it and its captivating past, there are other aspects of the attraction that still fascinate (or will fascinate) many people.

So the answer to the question “Can you visit the Statue of Liberty?” is yes, but what exactly can you do at the Statue of Liberty?

We’ll get to that straight away, and also answer the many questions that visitors often ask about the Statue of Liberty.

• How does the tour work?
• How long does the tour last?
• When can I visit the Statue of Liberty?
• How much does the tour cost?
• How do I visit the Statue of Liberty? Discover the full itinerary

Access is only possible by boat . If you live in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Harlem, then head for Battery Park in lower Manhattan to board one of the Statue City Cruise ferries.

Before boarding, visitors must show their ticket or New York Pass. If you are using one of the New York Passes, you will be given a link to make a reservation for the day of your visit. You will also need to present your reservation voucher with your Pass.

There is a ticket office at Castle Clinton in Battery Park, where you can buy a ticket, but it’s unlikely to be for the same day as the boats are fully booked in advance. You will also have to go through a security check, which takes between 20 and 45 minutes on average.

If you live in New Jersey , you can also take a Statue City Cruise boat from Liberty State Park .

The boat starts with a tour of the island, before docking on Liberty Island. Once you’re on the island, head down the main walkway to the ticket office to pick up a free audio guide .

With your headphones on, stroll around the statue and enter the different numbers on your audio-guide to listen to explanations and anecdotes about the history and events linked to the island and the statue.

Visit the Liberty Island Museum

The Statue of Liberty Museum is a must when you’re on Liberty Island. The entire history of the Statue of Liberty is recounted in this museum, from the ambition of its creator Auguste Bartholdi to the techniques used to build such an edifice, not forgetting models of the projects and the interior of the statue and its pedestal.

This is a collection of historical objects relating to the Statue of Liberty that is unique in the world , from the copper plates to the first torch it held up in 1886.

Descent to Ellis Island and visit to the Immigration Museum

Once you’ve completed your visit to Liberty Island, all you have to do is return to the boarding platform for your second destination : Ellis Island. You can choose to go down to Ellis Island to visit the National Immigration Museum , which tells the rich history of immigration to the United States and lets you relive the tumultuous experiences of millions of migrants who have passed through the island.

You can also choose to stay on the boat and return to Manhattan, but we highly recommend a visit to Ellis Island and the Immigration Museum, which we describe here.

Interested in visiting the inside of the Statue of Liberty?

You’ll have to climb the 354 steps inside the Statue of Liberty. Once on the pedestal (the little heads you can see in the photo on the right below), you’ll enjoy a view of New York harbour, the Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan.

It is also possible to visit the crown of the Statue of Liberty, but this requires special “crown ticket to statue of liberty” and a reservation many months in advance.

• How much does a visit to the Statue of Liberty cost?

You’ll find lots of prices on the internet for visiting the Statue of Liberty, but there’s only one company authorised to take you to Liberty Island and that’s “City Experiences”, which has been awarded the concession by the national parks for the next few years.

City Experiences offers 3 prices , with the price variation lying in access to the different parts of the statue: the island , its pedestal and its crown . All include the ferry to Liberty Island to walk around the statue, admission to the Statue Museum, the ferry to Ellis Island and admission to the Immigration Museum.

If you buy a New York Pass (except the Flex Sightseeing Pass), you get access to the walk around the statue, the two museums and the ferry to the two islands, so you save the $25 entrance fee, not to mention the dozens of other activities the pass provides.

24.50 / adult

18 / senior ( 62 years old)

$12 / child (under 12)

Free for children under 4

24.80 / adult

18.30 / senior citizen

$12.30 / child

Free for children under 4³

¹ This access is not included with the passes and we do not recommend buying a ticket just for the pedestal, as it will not add to your experience. However, if you don’t buy a pass, given the price difference, you can choose this entrance and see for yourself if you have time to do so. You should allow an extra 30 minutes to visit the pedestal.

² Please note! These tickets must be booked months in advance. For example, in April at the time of writing, the next available tickets are for 22 August.

The visit to the crown of the statue is for groups of 10 people maximum, and is limited to 6 groups per hour. The ascent is demanding, with 393 steps, including 162 in narrow sections . Access is not possible for people with reduced mobility, as there is no lift.

The temperature also makes climbing difficult, as it can be up to 10°C warmer inside the structure; in summer, the temperature inside can reach 50°C.

³ Children must be at least 107 cm tall and be able to climb the stairs on their own. For security reasons, crown tickets must be collected from the ticket office by the purchaser, together with proof of identity.

Good to know : it takes about 3 to 5 hours for general access! If you don’t have a City Pass and you buy a ticket on a website, check the departure platform so that you don’t take New Jersey if you’re in Manhattan.

Save on your visit to the Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty is in 4 Passes , order one of them to visit hundreds of attractions at the best prices.

• Useful information

Timetable for visiting the Statue of Liberty

Liberty Island and Ellis Island welcome visitors every day from 9.30am to 5pm (except Thanksgiving Day and 25 December , when the attraction remains closed). The ticket office opens at 8.30am and ferries leave every 30-45 minutes, the first leaving Battery Park at 9am.

The last ferry leaves Battery Park at 3.30pm.

Shop and catering

Snack bars are available on the boats for a quick bite to eat, as well as restaurants on Liberty Island . The area is ideal for picnics, but coolers are not permitted. It is also forbidden to bring food from outside.

Souvenir shops are available on both islands.

Disabled access

All boats and buildings are accessible to the disabled except the crown .

Minimum age

Minors (aged 17 and under) may only board a ferry if accompanied by an adult aged 25 or over.

To make the most of your visit to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, it’s important to plan your visit in advance. Book your ticket early. To avoid queues at the entrance, we recommend that you buy your tickets online.

• History and significance of the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States to celebrate the centenary of American independence (4 July 1776).

It is the work of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi , a French sculptor and painter, who built it based on sketches by Gustave Eiffel in Paris. Originally nicknamed “Liberty Enlightening the World “, “Lady Liberty “ was completed and unveiled to the public in 1886. Since then, she has become a symbol of freedom for people around the world.

It will soon be 137 years since the Statue of Liberty became a symbol of freedom. Inspired by the Roman goddess Libertas, she represents a woman whose identity remains a mystery. She is dressed in a toga and brandishes a torch in her right hand , while her left hand holds a plaque bearing the date of the Declaration of Independence. The seven rays of her crown represent the seven continents of the planet. At his feet are broken chains symbolising the abolition of slavery and oppression during the era of Napoleon III.

Because of its proximity to Ellis Island, the statue has become a symbol of historic hope for the millions of immigrants who have arrived over the years. Because it was also the first monument that migrants saw from the boat before disembarking on the island.

The history of the Statue of Liberty and that of Ellis Island are closely linked. From 1892 to 1954, the neighbouring island played a role in American history as the site that facilitated the entry of millions of immigrants to the United States. It served as the country’s largest immigration post from 1892 to 1954.

Over the years, efforts to restore and preserve Ellis Island have ensured that this important site remains accessible to visitors as a reminder of its historic past.

In short, the Statue of Liberty – Ellis Island tour is an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting New York City. We’ll never say it again, the best thing you can do is plan your visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You will now find a list of questions that travellers often ask about the Statue of Liberty. If you have any other questions about the attraction before you fly to New York, don’t hesitate to ask us in the comments.

• Frequently asked questions

The length of the visit depends on the attractions you choose to explore. You should allow at least 2 hours to visit one island and 4 to 5 hours to visit both islands and the museums. The visit can last half a day if you opt to climb the crown.

As the exploration of the two islands lasts 5 hours, it’s in your interest to get on board before 2pm. To take full advantage of all the on-site activities at your own pace, come to Battery Park before 10am. If you want to avoid the long queues, it’s best to arrive at the ticket office around 8.15am, so you can catch the first boat leaving Battery Park at 9am.

Bags are not allowed inside the attraction, but lockers are available free of charge for you to leave your luggage in before you leave.

Full height: 93m (305 feet) Pedestal height: 47m (154 feet) Height of the statue: 46m (151 feet)

Early in the morning, you can take photos next to the sculpture of the Wall Street Bull (Charging Bull), which is very popular during the day. Then there’s the One World Observatory , which is 8 to 15 minutes’ walk from Battery Park. And in the same area, you have the 9 September Museum and Memorial.

How do I get there?

Battery Park

Underground

• South Ferry – line 1
• Bowling Green – lines 4 and 5
• R Whitehall St – South Ferry – lines R and W
• Bus M1, M6 and M15

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tickets

From $30.50

Save up to 51% on admission with a PASS.

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Alerts in effect, fees & passes, catch a ride to our park, warning: beware third party ticket vendors.

There are many aggressive, unauthorized ticket sellers who will try to sell tickets to the Statue of Liberty near Battery Park in NYC. These individuals will often try to scam people through misrepresentation and over-charging. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. The only on-site location to purchase authorized tickets is the Statue City Cruises official ticket office inside Castle Clinton in The Battery. Plan ahead if possible, and avoid these scammers selling overpriced and/or fake tickets.

National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Passes

Learn about federal lands passes, overview of entrance requirements, most visitors need.

• Statue of Liberty- General Admission Reservation Required Jan 1–Dec 31
• Statue of Liberty - Pedestal Reservation Required Jan 1–Dec 31 Required to access the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty
• Statue of Liberty - Crown Reservation Required Jan 1–Dec 31 Required to access the crown of the Statue of Liberty
• Parking/Transportation Parking, shuttle, or other transportation-related fees may apply.

Reservations and Timed Entry

Statue of liberty- general admission reservation, statue of liberty - pedestal reservation, statue of liberty - crown reservation, 2024 free entrance days in the national parks.

Come experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone (other fees may apply). Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates:

• Monday, January 15 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Saturday, April 20 — First Day of National Park Week
• Wednesday, June 19 — Juneteenth
• Sunday, August 4 — The Great American Outdoors Act
• Saturday, September 28 — National Public Lands Day
• Monday, November 11 — Veterans Day

Last updated: March 14, 2024

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Contact info, mailing address:.

Receiving Office 1 Ellis Island Jersey City, NJ 07305

212 363-3200

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