Dare I ask, is there anything more iconic in NYC (or America as a whole) than the Statue of Liberty? Hard to think of a more famous landmark for our nation, which it why visiting the Statue of Liberty is so high on most NYC itineraries.
In fact, more than 4.5 million people visit the Statue of Liberty every year and there’s a few common questions most first-time visitors have. That’s where I come in, let’s cover everything you need to know about seeing the Statue of Liberty!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +3 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
The (Brief) History of the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, was conceived by French politician Édouard de Laboulaye in the 19th century. Frustration by political repression in France, Laboulaye sought to honor the ideals of freedom and liberty with a symbolic gift to America.
Designed by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and engineer Gustave Eiffel (yes, the guy behind the Eiffel Tower), it was constructed in France and shipped to the United States as a gift to celebrate America’s centennial.
The statue arrived in New York Harbor in 1885 and was assembled on Liberty Island, at the time it was the tallest structure in the world. The statue was dedicated a year later (on October 28, 1886). It quickly became a beacon of hope for immigrants, symbolizing freedom and enlightenment.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that the seven points on Lady Liberty’s crown represent the seven seas, the seven continents, and the rays of the sun, signifying the spread of liberty around the world?
Why is the Statue of Liberty Important?
Millions of Americans (and people around the world) can trace their ancestors to Ellis Island. People fled political strife, religious persecution and severe poverty with the hopes of a better life in a foreign land. Leaving families and native tongues behind, the influx of immigrants in America ended up being one of the greatest migrations in modern history.
By the early 1900s, Ellis Island received an average of 5,000 immigrant per day (imagine!). In fact, a record number of immigrants was processed on April 17, 1907 — a whopping 11,747! All told, Ellis Island was the first step toward becoming American for more than 12 million people.
People from all over the country visit Ellis Island (and the Statue of Liberty) for a chance to find their families names in the record books, it’s a very moving experience.
How to Visit the Statue of Liberty in NYC
Table of Contents: Everything to Know About Visiting the Statue of Liberty
Table of Contents: Statue of Liberty Guide
Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty
Check Security Guidelines: Visiting the Statue of Liberty involves two airport-style security screenings. The first is as you board the ferry and there’s another when entering the monument. Expect to have bags screened and walk through a metal detector. Weapons, large bags, drones, masks, and permanent markers are forbidden. For crown access, backpacks, strollers and food need to be stored in lockers.
Bring Essentials: Pack essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, water, and snacks, as there are limited facilities on Liberty Island. Dress for the weather, since there’s isn’t much protection from the elements while visiting the Statue of Liberty.
Know What to Expect: Allocate at least a half-day to visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and consider bringing a packed lunch and drinks as the experience may take longer than expected. Food is available but the lines are long and (if I’m honest) the quality leaves much to be desired.
Getting There: Ferries and Departures
The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island, which is only accessible by ferry. Statue City Cruises is the only authorized vendor that provides ferry services to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
Ferries depart from two locations:
- Battery Park in Lower Manhattan: This is the most popular departure point for visiting the Statue of Liberty.
- Liberty State Park in New Jersey: This location provides a unique perspective of the statue from the New Jersey side of the harbor. It’s also less crowded compared to the Manhattan ferry.
Pro Tip: Ferries tend to get crowded, especially during peak season (summer and major holidays). Consider purchasing your tickets well in advance and try to arrive about 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to pass through the security check point.
Visiting the Statue of Liberty: Understanding Ticket Options
Official tickets to the Statue of Liberty are only sold online at Statue City Cruises and in-person at Castle Clinton (in Battery Park, Lower Manhattan). There’s a lot of ticket sellers around Battery Park touting tickets to the Statue of Liberty but most of these are tourist traps, avoid.
There are three main ticket options for visiting the Statue of Liberty:
General Admission Ticket: This is the most basic option, granting you access to Liberty Island, the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. It’s perfect for visitors who want to explore the grounds at their own pace, learn about the history, and admire Lady Liberty from the outside.
Pedestal Access Ticket: For a closer look, consider the pedestal access ticket. This ticket allows you to climb up 215 steps to the statue’s pedestal (elevator is available ONLY for those with mobility issues), offering panoramic views of New York Harbor and a chance to see the copper exterior up close. Keep in mind that pedestal access tickets are limited and sell out quickly, so book yours in advance. Food, drinks, bags, tripods, laptops, and strollers are not allowed at the pedestal but lockers are available for 25 cents.
Crown Access Ticket: This coveted ticket grants access to the very crown of Lady Liberty! Climbing 377 narrow steps to the crown provides breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City and the harbor. However, crown access tickets are extremely limited and can be hard to come by. Be prepared to book months in advance, especially during peak season. There are also stricter restrictions on mobility and claustrophobia for climbing to the crown, so make sure you’re up to the challenge before purchasing.
Beyond the Statue: Exploring Liberty Island
While the Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly the star of the show, Liberty Island offers a few attractions worth exploring. Here are some additional things to see and do on Liberty Island while visiting the Statue of Liberty:
- The Statue of Liberty Museum: Located on the island, this museum dives into the history of the statue’s design and construction and its enduring significance as a beacon of freedom. Exhibits include the statue’s original torch, which was replaced in 1986 due to safety concerns.
- The Statue of Liberty Gift Shop: The Statue of Liberty Gift Shop offers a variety of souvenirs and memorabilia for visitors to purchase, including clothing, accessories, collectibles, and other themed items.
- Flagpole Plaza: Located at the foot of Lady Liberty, the plaza features a grand flagpole flying the American flag and serves as a gathering point for visitors before they embark on their exploration of Liberty Island.
Local’s Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds of Liberty Island. There are picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy your meal with stunning views of the statue and the harbor. If you can’t pack snacks, swing by the Crown Cafe (no, not literally in the crown) for a burger, hot dog, or milkshake.
Exploring Ellis Island
After you’re done exploring the Statue of Liberty, you’ll jump back on the ferry. The ferry’s next stop is Ellis Island (the ferry runs on a three-stop loop).
Since your tickets include access to both Liberty and Ellis Island, take advantage of the opportunity to dive into history for a bit. Ellis Island served as the entry point for more than 12 million immigrants arriving in the United States between 1892 and 1954.
Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration offers a poignant look at the immigrant experience. Through exhibits and interactive displays, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the hopes, dreams, and challenges faced by new Americans.
Admittedly, you won’t need to spend too much time exploring the musuem (it’s a bit sparse). When you’ve wrapped up, hop on the return ferry to Manhattan or New Jersey.
Best Time to Visit the Statue of Liberty
Timing your visit is key! Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Summer brings sunshine but larger crowds, so purchase tickets well in advance. Winter has minimal crowds but can be chilly.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, and aim for the first ferry of the day whenever possible. Check for special events that might impact your visit. Consider a guided tour for priority boarding and historical insights.
Visiting the Statue of Liberty – FAQ
The time it takes to visit the Statue of Liberty can vary. Generally, I suggest spending around 3 hours exploring the island, including the statue and the museum.
The Statue of Liberty has a gift shop located on Liberty Island where visitors can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia.
There is a cafe on Liberty Island called the Crown Cafe. It offers a variety of food options like burgers, hot dogs, pizza, and salads, along with snacks and beverages. There’s also an espresso bar if you need a caffeine pick-me-up.
Visiting the Statue of Liberty is worth it for its historical significance, breathtaking views, and the opportunity to experience an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy.
Climbing to the top of the Statue of Liberty’s crown offers a unique experience. You’ll get breathtaking views of New York City and the surrounding harbor, and I say it’s always worth it if you’re able to manage the narrow and steep staircase (and get your hands on the ever-elusive tickets!).
Before entering the Statue of Liberty, each ticket holder must present photo identification (except minors without ID) that matches the name printed on the ticket.
Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty
Here are some interesting tidbits you can impress your friends and family with while visiting the Statue of Liberty:
- Not So Green From the Start: Lady Liberty wasn’t always the iconic florescent green we know today. The copper exterior naturally oxidized over time, creating a beautiful green patina.
- A Head Start in Paris: The statue’s head was displayed at the 1878 World’s Fair in Paris before being disassembled and shipped across the Atlantic for assembly in New York.
- Lightning Lady: Lady Liberty is struck by lightning an average of 600 times a year! Luckily, the copper exterior acts as a giant conductor, channeling the electricity away from the statue’s internal structure.
- A Broken Chain Reaction: While visiting the Statue of Liberty look closely at Lady Liberty’s feet. You’ll see a broken shackle symbolizing her role as a beacon of hope for those seeking freedom from oppression.
- Height: From the base to the tip of the torch, the Statue of Liberty stands at a height of approximately 305 feet (93 meters). It was the tallest structure in New York City when it was completed in 1886.
- Almost Egyptian: French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps originally proposed a statue, Egypt Carrying the Light to Asia, at the Suez Canal in the 1860s. The project was rejected, at which point he turned his gaze onto America and began planning the Statue of Liberty.
- Gustave Eiffel’s Contribution: The structural framework of the Statue of Liberty was designed by Gustave Eiffel. Indeed, this is the same Eiffel who later went on to design the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
- Replica in Paris: A smaller replica of the Statue of Liberty stands on the Seine River in Paris. It was installed in 1889 and faces west, towards its larger counterpart in New York Harbor.
Where is the Statue of Liberty? (Map)
I hope this guide for visiting the Statue of Liberty was helpful in planning your trip! Enjoy the monument, and don’t forget to snap some photos. After visiting come back and tell me what you thought in the comments.
Cheers!
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