Statue of Liberty — About, History, Tours & Visitor Information (2025)
Plan the perfect visit to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Learn the statue’s history, compare official ferry tickets, quick harbor cruises, and guided tours, plus crown/pedestal rules, hours, directions, and smart 2025 tips.
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About the Statue of Liberty
A gift from France dedicated in 1886, the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World became a symbol of freedom and welcome to millions arriving by sea. Your visit typically includes Liberty Island (statue, museum, pedestal/crown access if reserved) and Ellis Island (Immigration Museum).
What You’ll See
Panoramas of New York Harbor and Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty Museum with the original torch, and on Ellis Island, the restored Great Hall and exhibits on immigrant journeys (1892–1954).
Why It’s Special
Few places combine iconic views with such powerful history. From the pedestal’s outlook to Ellis family records, it’s a moving look at the American story.
Brief History & Timeline
- 1865–1886 — Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi with Gustave Eiffel’s engineering; dedicated on Bedloe’s Island.
- 1892–1954 — Ellis Island processes over 12 million immigrants entering the U.S.
- 1924 — Statue becomes a U.S. National Monument; 1956 Bedloe’s Island renamed Liberty Island.
- 1984–86 — Major restoration; UNESCO World Heritage status; centennial rededication.
- 2019 — Statue of Liberty Museum opens with the original torch exhibit.
- Today — Timed tickets, security screening, and limited crown access. Pedestal/crown must be reserved well in advance.
Good to know: Official ferries depart Battery Park (NYC) and Liberty State Park (NJ). Your ferry ticket can include both islands; allow enough time (3–5 hours) for lines and museums.
Tours & Ticket Options
Official Ferry: Liberty & Ellis
Round-trip ferry with island access. Explore museums at your pace; add pedestal/crown when available (very limited).
Guided Liberty & Ellis Tour
A local expert handles timing and highlights on both islands—ideal for first visits and deeper history.
Express Cruise (No Island Stop)
Short sightseeing cruise for up-close photos of Lady Liberty without disembarking—perfect on tight schedules.
Sunset Harbor Cruise
Golden-hour sailing with skyline views and torch-lit photos—relaxed ambiance, great for families and couples.
Cancellation: Many products offer free cancellation up to 24 hours. Always check the policy on the ticket page for your date/time.
What You’ll Experience
Liberty Island
Visit the Statue of Liberty Museum (don’t miss the original torch). With pedestal tickets, climb to an elevated platform for sweeping harbor views. Crown access requires a separate, very limited reservation and steep stair climb.
- Arrive early for security and ferry boarding.
- Plan photos facing Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn.
- Bring layers—decks can be windy year-round.
Ellis Island
Walk the Great Hall and explore exhibits tracing immigrant stories. Use interactive tools to search ship manifests and family names. Many visitors spend 1–2 hours here.
Photography: handheld cameras/phones are fine; tripods/selfie sticks may be restricted. Follow staff guidance on deck areas.
Insider Tips
Best Time
Take the first morning ferry to beat queues, or choose an afternoon slot that overlaps golden hour for warm light on the statue.
Crown & Pedestal
Reserve months ahead for the crown (stair-only, narrow steps). Pedestal access uses timed entry and extra screening.
Security & Bags
Expect airport-style screening. Large bags/luggage aren’t permitted. Small lockers are available for crown/pedestal restrictions on Liberty Island.
Visitor Cheatsheet
NYC Departure
Battery Park, Lower Manhattan. Nearby subway: South Ferry, Bowling Green, Whitehall St.
NJ Departure
Liberty State Park, Jersey City—often easier parking; reaches both islands.
Hours
Ferry schedules vary by season/holiday. Check your ticket page for exact first/last sailings.
Tickets
Mobile QR accepted. Many options offer free cancellation up to 24h before.
Time Needed
3–5 hours for both islands including lines, ferries, and museum time.
Accessibility
Ferries/islands accessible; crown is not (stairs only). Pedestal has elevators with screening limits.
Ready to Visit the Statue of Liberty?
Choose the right ticket—ferry for islands, a guided tour for context, or a short cruise for quick photos—and enjoy an unforgettable day.
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