Statue of Liberty

The basics

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.

Things to know before you go

• 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.

How to get there

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.

When to get there

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.

Visiting nearby Ellis Island

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.

How much does it cost to go into the Statue of Liberty?

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.

Do you need reservations to visit the Statue of Liberty?

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.

How do I book a slot for the Statue of Liberty?

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.

Is there a waiting list for the Statue of Liberty?

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.

How far in advance should I book the Statue of Liberty?

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.

Is the Statue of Liberty tour worth it?

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.

Ways to explore

Statue of Liberty tours start with a scenic ferry ride to the island, where you can explore the grounds or head to the 10-story-high observation pedestal to see the original torch. From there, enjoy great views of the New York City skyline and neighboring New Jersey. You can also secure tickets to the crown, but be prepared to climb 162 narrow, steeply winding stairs from the pedestal to the top.

A number of street scammers attempt to sell fake tickets to the Statue of Liberty near the Battery Park ferry departure point—avoid by pre-booking with authorized retailers. Guided tours feature live narration and historical insight, while audio tours tell about the monument’s construction. Lady Liberty is also a highlight on New York Harbor cruises, helicopter tours, and waterfront walking tours.

Accessibility

While the observation deck is not wheelchair accessible, the information center, gift pavilion, bookstore, and exterior grounds are. A limited number of wheelchairs are available to rent.

Age limits

Children aged 0–4 are not permitted to visit the crown observation area.

What to pack

Water bottles, snacks for the trip, camera

What to wear

Layers, sun protection, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Pets, coolers, luggage or bulky items, drones

Amenities

Wi-Fi, food and drinks, storage lockers

Address

The Statue of Liberty is accessible by ferry. You can book ferries operated by Statue City Cruises, the only licensed ferry service. Statue of Liberty cruises depart from the Battery at the southern tip of Manhattan and from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. If you’re visiting NYC, take public transit or taxis to the Battery.

Driving

While you could drive to the Battery in Lower Manhattan (the most popular departure point for Statue of Liberty cruises), navigating the Big Apple’s busy streets could pose a challenge, and parking options around the landmark are likely to be limited. It’s much more convenient to take public transit or a taxi. To drive to Liberty State Park in New Jersey, take I-95 to the I-78 E/New Jersey Turnpike Newark Bay exit. Parking here costs US$7 per car.

Public transportation

To get to The Battery using public transportation, take the 1 train to South Ferry; the N, R, or W to Whitehall Street–South Ferry, or the 4 or 5 to Bowling Green. To get to Liberty State Park using public transportation, take PATH trains to Exchange Place, and then take the Hudson–Bergen Light Rail to the Liberty State Park stop.

Best times to visit

Aim to get to the Statue of Liberty as early in the day as possible to beat the peak of the crowds. The site opens at 9am, and it’s worth booking a morning tour with priority ferry service.

Best days to visit

Weekends at the Statue of Liberty draw the biggest crowds. For a more relaxed sightseeing experience, try visiting on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. The statue is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Best months to visit

Since much of the attraction and the ferry transit experience occurs outdoors, it’s best to visit the Statue of Liberty during nice weather. Spring and fall are good times to visit; summer can bring large crowds and very high temperatures.

Special events

The Fourth of July is a particularly poignant (and thematically appropriate) time to visit the Statue of Liberty; stick around Lower Manhattan to see fireworks displays over the harbor in the evening.