Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty tours start with a scenic ferry ride to the island, and many visitors get their first views of the statue from the water. Once you reach the island, can explore the grounds or head to the famed 10-story-high observation pedestal to see the original torch. From there, enjoy great views and photo ops of the New York City skyline and neighboring New Jersey. You can also secure tickets to the crown but be prepared to climb 354 steeply winding steps to the top.

Guided tours feature live narration and historical insight, while informative audio tours explore the construction and restoration of the monument. The monument is also a highlight on New York Harbor cruises, city helicopter tours, and waterfront walking tours.

• Choose between three types of Statue of Liberty tickets: grounds only, pedestal access, or crown access. Book pedestal and crown tickets well in advance.

• Purchase tickets for an early-access slot to beat the crowds.

• Access to the Statue of Liberty museum is included with pedestal tickets.

• While the observation deck is not wheelchair accessible, the information center, gift pavilion, bookstore, and exterior grounds are.

• All visitors to the monument are subject to security screening.

Liberty Island is southwest of the tip of Manhattan in Upper New York Bay. Statue Cruises ferry service connects Battery Park in Lower Manhattan to Liberty and Ellis Islands. The closest subway stations for Battery Park are South Ferry and Bowling Green. Plenty of tours also include round-trip transportation.

Summertime crowds can be intense, so the earlier you arrive at Battery Park for the first few departing ferries, the better. Booking priority-access tickets in advance is a helpful way to maximize your time. The first ferry to Liberty Island typically departs in the morning and the last departs in mid-afternoon, with extended hours in the summer and around the holidays.

Many visitors choose to combine a Statue of Liberty tour with a visit to nearby Ellis Island. Ferry tickets include access to both stops, and many guided tours offer a combination experience. Once at Ellis, visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum to learn about the history of immigration in the United States.

To visit the Statue of Liberty, you must book with Statue City Cruises, the only licensed operator for trips to Liberty Island. The basic fare with general admission and audio guides costs US$24. However, additional packages can include an option to visit the statue’s crown and vary in price.

No, you don’t need reservations to visit the Statue of Liberty. However, to guarantee your admission and ensure a smooth experience, booking your ferry ticket and tour package in advance is recommended—especially when demand is highest during summer, school holidays, and weekends.

To book your tickets to the Statue of Liberty, you must purchase via Statue City Cruises, the only licensed ferry operator servicing Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Statue City Cruises offers a range of options, with some tours granting access to the statue’s crown and sections of the pedestal.

No, there is no waitlist to visit the Statue of Liberty. However, booking tickets in advance of your visit is highly recommended. The most popular tour options, including those granting access to the statue’s crown, sell out first—and are worth booking up to six months ahead of time.

While day-of tickets are sold via Statue City Cruises (the only licensed ferry operator), it’s advised to book your tickets at least several weeks in advance of your visit, especially during the summer and other busy periods. For tickets to visit the statue’s crown, it’s best to book multiple months in advance.

Yes, the Statue of Liberty tour is worth it. One of the nation’s most iconic landmarks, the statue is a bucket-list favorite for many visitors (as is Ellis Island, located right next door). Various tour packages are available—including options to visit the statue’s crown—and are usually accompanied by audio guides.