Statue of Liberty - NYC
For over a century, the Statue of Liberty has overlooked New York Harbor. Located on Liberty Island, just off the southern tip of Manhattan Island, the Statue of Liberty is one of New York City’s most popular tourist attractions. It draws thousands of visitors daily. A universal symbol of hope and freedom (the torch is a symbol of liberty and light), the Statue of Liberty is one of the world’s most recognizable icons. She was a gift to the people of the U.S. from the people of France on October 28, 1886, in recognition of the friendship established during the American Revolution.
The 22-story Statue of Liberty is approximately 305 feet, up to the top of the torch. The climb from the base to the crown is about 250 feet. An interior staircase leads up to the Crown. Breathtaking views from the top overlook New York harbor and city skyline.
Tickets to the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island and Ellis Island
There are four ticket options to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island:
- Reserve Ticket (includes ferry access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, plus the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Ticket does NOT include Pedestal access).
- Reserve Ticket with Pedestal Access
- Reserve Ticket with Crown Ticket (tours sell out weeks in advance)
- Hard Hat Tour of Ellis Island
Statue of Liberty’s Crown
To access the Statue of Liberty’s Crown (pictured below), visitors are required to climb a steep, narrow spiral staircase. There are 354 stairs to reach the Crown… and then down again. This is NOT recommended for anyone who is claustrophobic, suffers from vertigo or is out of shape. There’s only one way up and one way down; no sliding down the rails, kids! The Statue of Liberty has no air-conditioning, so be prepared for temperatures to be 20 degrees higher than outside. Be sure to drink plenty of water prior to your climb. Note that there are NO restrooms in the statue.
The seven points on the Statue of Liberty’s crown represent 7 seas, 7 continents, 7 days of the week, 7 letters in liberty, 7 letters in America, and 7 letters in New York.
Ferry Boat to the Statue of Liberty
All visitors must purchase a ticket for ferry transportation. Tickets include access to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Ferry boats depart daily from New York City’s Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan. Lines can be long, especially during peak tourist season, so the earlier you arrive, the better. Visitors must pass through security screening before boarding the ferry. Allow at least 1-1/2 hours to stand in line before boarding the ferry.
More Info
Open daily except for Christmas Day. Expect crowds during peak seasons (June through September, holidays, and weekends throughout the year). Visit the Statue of Liberty’s website for more info on tickets, hours and guided tours.
Book New York Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Get early Reserve Line Access boarding on the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island and avoid waiting in long lines, especially during peak tourist season. Optional Pedestal Ticket upgrade gets you inside the pedestal’s statue to the observation decks to see stunning NYC views. Choose from a variety of Statue of Liberty Tours.
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