Location: Liberty Island, New York Harbor (accessible only by ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey)
Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (last ferry times vary by season)
Tickets: Required for ferry, pedestal, and crown access (limited availability for crown)
A universal symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty was a gift from France in 1886 and has since become one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Standing 305 feet tall from the base to the torch, “Lady Liberty” welcomes millions of visitors each year.
Top Things to Do
Ferry Ride
Enjoy views of the New York Harbor, Manhattan skyline, and Brooklyn Bridge during the ferry trip to Liberty Island.
Statue of Liberty Museum
Learn about the history, design, and construction of the statue, including the original torch on display.
Pedestal Access
Climb up to the pedestal for panoramic views of the harbor and Manhattan (separate ticket required).
Crown Access
A unique experience with limited tickets — climb 162 narrow steps to the crown for a once-in-a-lifetime view.
Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
Included with your ticket, Ellis Island tells the story of over 12 million immigrants who entered the U.S. through its doors.
Visiting Tips
- Book tickets early — especially for pedestal and crown access, which often sell out months in advance.
- Arrive early — ferries get crowded, especially mid-day and weekends.
- Plan at least 4–5 hours to fully experience Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
- Bring water and comfortable shoes — walking and climbing are part of the experience.
- Clear security screenings before boarding the ferry can take time — pack light.
- Great photo spots: from the ferry, the pedestal, or the nearby Liberty State Park in NJ.
Best Hours and Weekdays to Visit the Statue of Liberty
To make the most of your visit and avoid heavy crowds, timing is crucial:
- Weekdays over Weekends: Aim for Monday–Thursday to skip the busiest tourist crowds.
- First Ferries of the Day: Morning departures (around 8:30–9:00 AM) are the best for fewer people and cooler weather.
- Avoid Midday: From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM ferries are packed, with long lines at security and limited seating.
- Late Afternoon: The last ferries are quieter, though you may have less time to explore both islands.
- Seasonal Consideration: Spring and fall offer milder weather and smaller crowds than peak summer.
Safety & Scam Tips
- Buy tickets only from the official Statue Cruises website or authorized partners.
- Avoid street hawkers or “fast pass” resellers outside Battery Park.
- Keep personal items close during ferry rides and crowded areas.
- Be prepared for airport-style security screenings.
Fun Facts
- Gift from France in 1886, designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi.
- Full height with pedestal: 305 feet.
- The torch you see today is a replica (the original is in the museum).
- The crown has 25 windows overlooking New York Harbor.
- The tablet reads July 4, 1776 in Roman numerals, marking American independence.
- Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need tickets to visit the Statue of Liberty?
Yes. Tickets are required to access Liberty Island and the Statue itself. You can purchase them online in advance or at the official ticket office, but advance purchase is highly recommended since they sell out quickly.
Can I go inside the Statue of Liberty?
Yes. You can access the pedestal and the crown, but both require separate tickets. Crown tickets are very limited and often sell out months in advance.
How do I get to the Statue of Liberty?
The only way to reach Liberty Island is by ferry, operated exclusively by Statue City Cruises, departing from Battery Park (NYC) and Liberty State Park (NJ).
How much time should I plan for the visit?
Most visitors spend between 3–5 hours including the ferry ride, exploring Liberty Island, and visiting Ellis Island if combined.
Is Ellis Island included in the ticket?
Yes. All tickets to the Statue of Liberty also include entry to Ellis Island and its Immigration Museum.
What are the opening hours?
The first ferry usually departs around 9:00 AM, and the last one leaves Liberty Island around 5:00 PM. Exact hours vary by season, so it’s best to check the official schedule.
Are there security checks?
Yes. All visitors must go through airport-style security before boarding the ferry. If you go inside the pedestal or crown, there’s a second security screening.
Can I bring bags or food?
Small bags are allowed, but large backpacks and suitcases are not. Food can be purchased on the island, and outside food is allowed in picnic areas, but not inside the Statue.
Is the Statue of Liberty accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The island, museum, and pedestal are wheelchair-accessible, but the crown is not due to the narrow stairway.
When is the best time to visit?
Mornings are usually less crowded, especially the first ferries of the day. Weekdays are also quieter than weekends or holidays.
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