Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

View More to Do
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Logo

At a Glance

Time Needed: 240 min.

Ages: 4+

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are two iconic landmarks in the United States that hold significant historical and cultural significance. The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States, stands as a symbol of freedom, democracy, and opportunity. Visitors can climb to the top of the statue and enjoy panoramic views of New York Harbor and the city skyline. The statue also houses a museum dedicated to its history and construction, as well as the story of immigrants who came to the United States through Ellis Island. Ellis Island, located nearby, served as the gateway for over 12 million immigrants who arrived in the United States between 1892 and 1954. Today, visitors can tour the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which includes exhibits, interactive displays, and historical artifacts that showcase the immigrant experience. Visiting these landmarks provides an opportunity for tourists to learn about the history of the United States, its values, and the contributions of immigrants to the country's development. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, or just wanting to experience one of the world's most recognizable landmarks.

Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004 Get Directions





Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Videos

The Secret to Her Strength is the first video of the Ask A Ranger YouTube Series, where park rangers answer questions on some of the most intriguing facts about The Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. This first video takes a look at the internal frame work of The Statue of Liberty and shows how she was engineered to withstand hurricane force winds.

With Fashion Week in New York City, we're taking a closer look at the style of New York City's most iconic woman.

On October 28, 1886 the Statue of Liberty was dedicated in New York. Today she turns 130 years old. The National Park Service and Liberty Island staff would like to wish the Statue of Liberty a happy birthday.

In celebration of Black History Month, the Statue of Liberty National Monument invites you to interpret the symbolism represented by the broken shackles and chains at the feet of the statue and their connection to the civil war and the end of slavery.

To make the most out of your visit to Liberty and Ellis Islands, plan in advance. Enjoy this video for some helpful tips! Make your Statue of Liberty reservations today!

As the National Park Service anticipates their 100th birthday in 2016, many projects are in the works to commemorate that milestone. One of those projects is a 12 part documentary series that will show historical events that have transpired at the Statue of Liberty National Monument throughout the 100 years that the National Park Service has been here. This is a sneak peak to that story...stay tuned.

More in Financial District


More Attractions

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island News

South Street Seaport Museum's 2024 Sailing Season For The Schooner Pioneer And The Tugboat W.O. Decker On Sale

South Street Seaport Museum will present the 2024 Sailing Season for the 1885 schooner Pioneer and the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker, beginning in May and running through October. Learn more about the season!

South Street Seaport Museum to Present City Of Water Day Offerings

South Street Seaport Museum is participating in the 16th annual City of Water Day on Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 12-5pm.

South Street Seaport Museum 2023 Summer Launch Celebration

South Street Seaport Museum celebrated the start of the 2023 Summer Sailing Season on May 24, 2023, at 10am, on Pier 16 (between Fulton and South Streets). Remarks were given aboard Wavertree by the Seaport Museum's President and CEO Capt. Jonathan Boulware, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, NYC Commissioner for Cultural Affairs Laurie Cumbo, and Community Board 1 Vice Chair Alice Blank.

South Street Seaport Museum to Present 2023 Summer Launch Celebration

South Street Seaport Museum will present the 2023 Summer Launch celebration on May 24, 2023, at 10am.

Museum Of Jewish Heritage To Host First-Ever Mishpachah Festival

The Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, JewishGen, LOX, National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene, The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation and the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research will present New York’s first-ever Mishpachah Festival: A Celebration of Genealogy, Heritage, & Immigration, on Sunday, May 21, 2023.

Tickets On Sale For South Street Seaport Museum's Schooner Pioneer And Tugboat W.O. Decker 2023 Sailing Season

South Street Seaport Museum announced the 2023 Sailing Season for the 1885 schooner Pioneer and the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker, beginning May 24 and running through October.

Summer At The South Street Seaport Museum - Sailing Season Now Open With Free Exhibitions

The South Street Seaport Museum announces summer exhibitions, sailing season, and events at 12 Fulton St and on Pier 16. The free exhibitions on offer include the new, introductory gallery South Street and the Rise of New York, as well as a newly reconfigured return of the popular Millions: Migrants and Millionaires Aboard the Great Liners, 1900-1914.

May At The South Street Seaport Museum Upcoming Sailing Season And Free Exhibitions

The South Street Seaport Museum announces May exhibitions, sailing season, and events at 12 Fulton St and Pier 16. The Museum is excited to host NYC Poets Afloat for their third annual group poetry reading aboard tall ship Wavertree on May 15, 2022 at 2pm.

The South Street Seaport Museum Announces Spring 2022 Exhibitions and Sailing Season

The South Street Seaport Museum has announced spring 2022 exhibitions and sailing season at 12 Fulton St. The free exhibitions include the new, introductory gallery South Street and the Rise of New York, as well as a newly reconfigured return of the popular Millions: Migrants and Millionaires aboard the Great Liners, 1900-1914.

South Street Seaport Museum Announces 2022 Sailing Season For Schooner Pioneer and Tugboat W.O. Decker

The South Street Seaport Museum announces the 2022 Sailing Season for 1885 schooner Pioneer and rides aboard 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker to run from May 25 to October 30, 2022 from Pier 16 (Fulton and South Streets).

South Street Seaport Museum Receives 'Tugboat Of The Year' Award

South Street Seaport Museum announces that the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker received the 'Tugboat of the Year' Award from the Steamship Historical Society of America on October 1, 2021 on Pier 16.

South Street Seaport Museum Extends Open Days, Through October 31

South Street Seaport Museum announces the extension of Open Days through October 31, 2021 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with timed entry at Pier 16 (Fulton and South Streets).

August 2021 Programming Announced At The South Street Seaport Museum

South Street Seaport Museum has announced its August schedule, including free tours of the historic tall ship Wavertree and the 1908 lightship Ambrose, free demonstrations by Bowne & Co. letterpress printers, an outdoor exhibition on Pier 16, cruises aboard the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker, and more.

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Free Tours Of Lightship Ambrose Beginning in August

South Street Seaport Museum has announced FREE tours of the 1908 lightship Ambrose every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from August 6, 2021 through October 10, 2021. The ship will run four tours each day, departing at 11:30am, 2:30pm, 3:30pm and 4:00pm from Pier 16.

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Saturday Tugboat Rides On W.O. Decker

South Street Seaport Museum has announced public cruises aboard the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker every Saturday from July 31, 2021 through August 21, 2021. The ship will run three tours each Saturday, departing at 1:15pm, 2:45pm, and 4:15pm.


Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

To visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island at Liberty Island in New York City, you can take the subway to the nearest ferry departure point. The closest subway stops are:

1. South Ferry Station (1 train): This station is located right next to Battery Park, where you can catch the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Simply exit the station and follow the signs to the ferry terminal.

2. Bowling Green Station (4 and 5 trains): This station is a short walk from Battery Park. After exiting the station, head south on Broadway until you reach Battery Park.

Please note that due to ongoing construction and changes to subway schedules, it's always a good idea to check for any updates or service changes before your trip. You can visit the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for the latest subway information: MTA website.

When planning your visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, it's recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can purchase tickets and find more information on the official website of the Statue of Liberty National Monument: Statue of Liberty National Monument website.

Enjoy your visit to these iconic landmarks!


What's the best way to get to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island by bus?

To visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island at Liberty Island in New York City, you can take a ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. While there are no bus stops directly at the ferry terminals, there are several nearby options you can consider:

1. Battery Park: If you are departing from Manhattan, the closest bus stops to Battery Park are:

- South Ferry Terminal: Served by multiple bus lines, including M5, M15, and M20. You can check for updates on the MTA website [here](http://www.mta.info).

- Whitehall Street/South Ferry: Served by bus lines M15, M20, and M55. For bus updates, visit the MTA website [here](http://www.mta.info).

2. Liberty State Park: If you are departing from New Jersey, the closest bus stop to Liberty State Park is:

- Liberty State Park Light Rail Station: Served by the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail. You can find more information on the NJ Transit website [here](https://www.njtransit.com).

Once you reach Battery Park or Liberty State Park, you can purchase tickets for the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Make sure to check the ferry schedule in advance and plan your visit accordingly. Enjoy your trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island!

Note: Bus routes and schedules may be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your trip.


How much time should I plan to spend at Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is approximately 4-6 hours. This will give you enough time to fully explore both landmarks and make the most of your experience.

When visiting the Statue of Liberty, you can take a ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Once on Liberty Island, you can explore the grounds, visit the museum, and even climb to the crown of Lady Liberty if you have a reservation. This usually takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the crowds and your level of interest.

Afterward, you can take a short ferry ride to Ellis Island, where you can delve into the fascinating history of immigration to the United States. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration offers interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and the opportunity to search for your ancestors' records. Plan to spend an additional 1-2 hours here, depending on your level of interest.

Keep in mind that these time estimates are flexible, and you may want to allocate more time if you have a deep interest in history or want to take your time exploring. It's always a good idea to check the official websites for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for any updates or special events that may affect your visit.

Enjoy your time exploring these iconic landmarks and immersing yourself in the rich history they represent!


Can I bring food and drinks into Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island?

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are both iconic landmarks in New York City that attract millions of visitors each year. While they don't have specific food and drink policies, there are some guidelines to keep in mind during your visit.

When visiting the Statue of Liberty, you are not allowed to bring any outside food or beverages onto Liberty Island. However, there are several dining options available on the island, including a café and a snack bar, where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.

Ellis Island, on the other hand, does not have any dining facilities. Therefore, it is advisable to have your meals before or after your visit to the island. However, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in designated picnic areas.

It's important to note that both Liberty Island and Ellis Island have strict security measures in place, so be prepared to go through security screenings before entering. This includes having your bags checked, so it's a good idea to pack light and avoid bringing any prohibited items.

Overall, while you may not have a wide range of dining options on the islands themselves, there are plenty of fantastic restaurants and eateries in nearby areas like Battery Park and Lower Manhattan where you can enjoy a delicious meal before or after your visit.


Does Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island offer luggage storage?

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island do not have luggage storage facilities on-site. For security reasons, visitors are not allowed to bring large bags or suitcases onto the islands. However, there are options available for storing your luggage nearby.

If you are traveling with a small bag or backpack, you can bring it with you onto the ferry and onto the islands. Just keep in mind that there are restrictions on the size and type of bags allowed, so it's best to travel light.

If you have larger bags or suitcases, there are luggage storage services available in the surrounding area. Many hotels in New York City offer luggage storage for their guests, even if you are not staying there. You can also find several independent luggage storage facilities near popular tourist areas, including Battery Park and Lower Manhattan.

These services typically charge a fee based on the size and duration of storage. It's a convenient option if you want to explore the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island without the burden of carrying your bags around.

Remember to plan ahead and check the specific requirements and regulations of the storage facility you choose. It's always a good idea to call ahead or check their website for any updates or changes to their policies.

Enjoy your visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island!


Is Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Absolutely! The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are fantastic destinations for visitors from other countries, as well as for non-English language speakers. These iconic landmarks hold immense historical and cultural significance, making them must-see attractions for anyone visiting New York City.

While English is the primary language spoken in the United States, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island attract millions of international visitors each year. As a result, the staff and guides are well-versed in accommodating visitors from all over the world. You'll find that signage, audio guides, and informational materials are often available in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, and more.

Additionally, many tour companies offer guided tours in various languages, ensuring that non-English speakers can fully enjoy and understand the history and significance of these landmarks. So, whether you're fluent in English or not, you can still have a meaningful and memorable experience exploring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Don't miss the opportunity to see Lady Liberty up close and learn about the millions of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island on their journey to America. It's an experience that transcends language barriers and offers a deep appreciation for the rich history of the United States.


What ages are appropriate for Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island?

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are great attractions for visitors of all ages! While there is no specific age requirement, I would say that children aged 4 and above tend to appreciate the experience more. Younger children may not fully grasp the historical significance of these landmarks, but they can still enjoy the boat ride and the views of the city skyline. It's always a good idea to bring snacks, water, and sunscreen, especially if you're visiting during the summer months. Don't forget your camera to capture those memorable moments!


Videos