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10 Best Statue of Liberty Tours in NYC

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Visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the top things to do in New York City , so taking a Statue of Liberty tour is a great idea.

There are several excellent tours that include ferry access to Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty. Some of them also go to neighboring Ellis Island, where you can see the Immigration Museum. You can also find tours that go specifically to the Statue of Liberty as well as tour packages that include Lady Liberty as part of the itinerary.

So, whether you want to travel by ferry, speedboat, sightseeing boat, or helicopter, or you’d like to see the Statue of Liberty and other attractions, I’ve got you covered. These are the 10 best Statue of Liberty tours:

• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry
• Guided Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour
• Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, & Pre-Ferry Tour
• 1-Hour Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Cruise
• 90-Minute Landmarks Cruise
• Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise
• City Skyline Experience Helicopter Tour
• The Beast Speedboat Tour
• 9/11 Memorial, Statue of Liberty, & Ellis Island Tour
• Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

As you can see, there are lots of options, so I’ll also share a comparison chart where you can see the duration and pricing for all these Statue of Liberty tours and tickets at the end of this guide .

1. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island ferry and ticket from NY or NJ

First, this half-day tour can depart from New York or Liberty State Park in New Jersey, so it’s a convenient option for many tourists. You’ll board the ferry for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island , then enjoy the beautiful views of the NYC skyline as your trip begins.

The first stop is Ellis Island, where nearly 12 million immigrants arrived in the U.S. from 1892 to 1954. Here, you can explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and learn more about this national symbol, which represented a new life and beginning for so many families. You can also access the records at the American Family Immigration History Center, maybe to look up your own family history.

Next, you’ll hop back on the ferry and make your way to Liberty Island, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty Museum. The historical exhibits include all kinds of facts and stories about Lady Liberty, as well as her original torch. You’ll get an audio guide for both the Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty museums, so you can go through the exhibits at your own pace.

• Price : $30+
• Duration : 6 hours
• Highlights : Round-trip ferry service to Ellis Island and Liberty Island, self-guided tour of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and Statue of Liberty Museum

2. Guided Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tour from NY

This cruise to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is one of the top tours in NYC , so it deserves a spot on this list. You’ll join a knowledgeable guide at Battery Park, where you’ll board the Statue of Liberty ferry and sail across New York Harbor.

Enjoy the lovely views of Lady Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline, then hop off the ferry at Liberty Island and use your skip-the-line ticket to enter the Statue of Liberty Museum. Your tour guide will share insider info and trivia about this national symbol, then you can explore the displays and exhibitions inside.

The next stop is Ellis Island, home to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Again, your guide will lead you around Ellis Island or, you can choose the express option, during which you’ll explore the place on your own. Either way, you’ll learn more about the country’s immigrant history and gain new insights into New York City’s past.

• Price : $44+
• Duration : 3-4 hours
• Highlights : Round-trip ferry to Liberty and Ellis Islands, and a guided tour through the Immigration Museum and Statue of Liberty Museum

3. Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, & pre-ferry tour

If you want to view the Statue of Liberty from several unique lookout points, check out this tour . You’ll start at Battery Park, one of the best parks in NYC with several historical monuments. For example, Castle Clinton is an old military fortress where you can see the Battery Cannon and the Coast Guard Memorial. Battery Park is also home to the Bosque Gardens and Fountain, which are worth seeing, too.

After spending 30 minutes in the park, you’ll board the ferry and go to the Statue of Liberty with your group. As your guide shares some facts about this national symbol, you’ll get nice views of the Lower and Midtown Manhattan skyline.

The ferry will approach the Statue of Liberty, then you’ll hop on land and visit the Statue of Liberty Museum. See Lady Liberty up close and learn more about how she was built and arrived in the U.S. After spending some time on Liberty Island, you’ll take the ferry to Ellis Island, where you’ll tour through the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

This tour includes audio guides for each museum, but if you prefer having a guide take you through the exhibits, you can upgrade your tour.

• Price : $46+
• Duration : 3-6 hours
• Highlights : Walking tour through Battery Park, ferry to Liberty and Ellis Islands, admission to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration museums

4. 1-Hour Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island cruise

This sightseeing cruise is a quick, fun Statue of Liberty tour , and one of the best boat rides in New York City . Climb aboard a sturdy vessel with an outdoor deck and an indoor seating area with large windows to ensure you don’t miss anything.

Then, you’ll set sail on New York Harbor and see all of Manhattan from the water. An onboard guide will narrate your journey, pointing out famous landmarks like the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Governor’s Island, and the Manhattan Bridge. Capture a photo of the iconic skyline, then cruise over to the Statue of Liberty.

This Statue of Liberty ferry doesn’t stop at Liberty Island, but you’ll get within 100 feet of the monument, so you can see Lady Liberty up close from the water. After sailing past Liberty Island, you’ll cruise over to Ellis Island, where you can get a closer look at this historic immigration processing center. On the way back to the pier, you’ll sail along the other side of Manhattan, passing under the Brooklyn Bridge, the most popular bridge in NYC , before coming back to land.

This is a quick and affordable boat tour of the Statue of Liberty , so if you’re exploring NYC in 2 days but want to say hi to Lady Liberty, try this one!

• Duration : 1 hour
• Highlights : Narrated cruise through New York Harbor around Liberty and Ellis Islands

5. 90-Minute Landmarks Cruise, a fun tour around the Statue of Liberty & Manhattan

This 90-minute cruise is another great and quick NYC boat tour to the Statue of Liberty and other popular Manhattan attractions. I recommend this tour if you want to see Lady Liberty and a handful of other famous landmarks in a short period of time. For example, if you are planning a 3-day trip to NYC .

This cruise is narrated by a knowledgeable guide who will share some historical and interesting facts about New York City and some of its most well-known places and attractions. As you sail along the Hudson River, you’ll see the skyline of Midtown and Lower Manhattan sprawled out before you. This is your chance to snap photos of the Empire State Building, the Freedom Tower, and other monumental structures.

Then, navigate over to Liberty Island and see the Statue of Liberty from the boat. You’ll also cruise by Ellis Island and learn more about the 62-year history of this immigration station as your guide shares more information and stories.

After taking the ferry around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, you’ll head back to the mainland, cruising past Battery Park, under the Brooklyn Bridge, and up the East River, where your tour ends.

• Price : $37+
• Duration : 1.5 hours
• Highlights : Sightseeing cruise along the Hudson and East Rivers with views of The Battery, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and other iconic attractions

6. Statue of Liberty sunset cruise

If you’re looking for something to do in NYC as a couple , check out this sunset boat cruise , which will take you past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan.

This scenic boat ride includes live narration from a knowledgeable guide, who will point out some of the most famous landmarks in Lower Manhattan. Snap gorgeous photos of One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and the Manhattan Bridge at golden hour.

Then, get a close-up view of Lady Liberty under the glow of sunset. The boat will get within 100 feet of the statue before sailing past Ellis Island and the famous entry point that millions of immigrants passed through.

This Statue of Liberty sunset cruise is a good option if you’re short on time but still want an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty. Plus, if you do this tour with your significant other, you can make it part of a romantic date night. There is indoor and outdoor seating on the boat, as well as a cash bar where you can purchase cocktails.

• Highlights : Scenic sightseeing cruise at sunset past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan’s most famous attractions

7. City skyline experience helicopter tour, the best Statue of Liberty tour by helicopter

For something different, consider this helicopter tour to fly over the Statue of Liberty . Enjoy an exciting flight over Manhattan Island in a special sightseeing helicopter with large floor-to-ceiling convex windows. As you take off for the skies, you’ll have 180° views of the city and New York Harbor below.

Your ride will be narrated by a trained, expert pilot, who will point out attractions and neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, and the Financial District. Get aerial views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Seeing the Statue of Liberty from above is quite a unique experience, and not many people can say they’ve seen this famous landmark from a birds-eye view. Not only that, but you’ll get a stunning overhead view of Manhattan. See just how large Central Park is, spot the Rockefeller Center and its ice skating rink, and check out the Empire State Building from an impressive vantage point.

This tour has two package options, so you can choose to focus on the highlights of Manhattan or a more general overview of NYC. Regardless of which option you choose, all heliport fees are included in the price, and you’ll get awesome aerial views of the Statue of Liberty . Without a doubt, it’s one of the best helicopter tours in New York City , so if you’re on the fence about booking it, don’t hesitate!

• Price : $194+
• Duration : 15-30 minutes
• Highlights : Sightseeing flight over Manhattan’s top landmarks, the Statue of Liberty, and New York Harbor

8. The Beast speedboat, an exciting boat tour around the Statue of Liberty

If you’re afraid of heights but still crave something exciting, try a Statue of Liberty speedboat tour ! I recommend this one , which takes you aboard The Beast speedboat, a custom-built, jet-powered vessel that can reach speeds up to 45 mph.

With your skip-the-line ticket, you’ll get priority access to this exhilarating ride through New York Harbor. So, climb aboard and buckle up!

An expert boat captain will take you down the Hudson River and past some of the most iconic attractions in Manhattan, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governor’s Island. The 30-minute ride is accompanied by a heart-pounding soundtrack to create a fully cinematic and immersive experience.

Once you reach the Statue of Liberty, your captain will stop the boat so you can see Lady Liberty up close. Then, prepare to zoom back to the mainland as you complete your Statue of Liberty harbor tour .

• Duration : 30 minutes
• Highlights : Reach speeds up to 45 mph as you cruise through New York Harbor in a speedboat, past the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, Ellis Island, and other landmarks

9. 9/11 Memorial, Statue of Liberty tour

Another excellent Statue of Liberty tour is this half-day tour , which visits five of the most popular attractions in NYC. It starts as a walking tour through Wall Street and Battery Park, then you’ll take a boat to Liberty and Ellis Islands.

First, your guide will take you along Wall Street past the top landmarks in the Financial District, like the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall. Then, you’ll head to One World Trade Center, home to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, one of the best museums in NYC . You’ll have a few moments around the two reflecting pools at the former site of the Twin Towers.

Then, stroll through Battery Park, where you can see the lovely Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. From there, you’ll hop on a ferry to see the Statue of Liberty up close and explore the Statue of Liberty Museum.

Afterward, take the ferry over to Ellis Island and visit the Immigration Museum before riding back to Battery Park.

• Price : $90+
• Duration : 4.5 hours
• Highlights : Guided walking tour through the Financial District and the 9/11 Memorial; sightseeing cruise to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, admission to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration museums

10. Brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise with live music, a unique Statue of Liberty boat tour

Finally, this cruise through New York Harbor is a wonderful tour during which you can see all kinds of attractions. Without a doubt, it’s the best Statue of Liberty cruise if you’re looking for something special, as you can enjoy the sights while dining on a gourmet meal.

There are three options for this tour – brunch, lunch, or dinner, and each tour departs from Chelsea Piers. You’ll sail down the Hudson River in a glass-enclosed boat with an outdoor viewing deck and an indoor seating area. Live narration ensures that you don’t miss any of the attractions as you cruise past them.

Check out the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other sights from your comfortable vessel. Not only that, but you’ll dig into a delicious meal! The brunch cruise includes bottomless mimosas, while the dinner option is accompanied by an acoustic trio of a jazz guitarist, bassist, and pianist (lunch and brunch cruises include live piano jazz.)

As you return to the pier, you’ll cruise along the East River, getting a different perspective of the city skyline. So, if you’re looking for an NYC boat tour around the Statue of Liberty and other top attractions in Manhattan, this is a great choice.

• Price : $105+
• Duration : 2-3 hours
• Highlights : Narrated sightseeing cruise with brunch, lunch, or dinner. Sail past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Battery Park, and Lower and Midtown Manhattan

Statue of Liberty tour price

If you’re torn between two or more Statue of Liberty tours , this chart can help you decide which one fits your budget or preferences best. This quick overview of the 10 Statue of Liberty tour prices also compares the duration and what you’ll see during the tour.

Statue of Liberty tour FAQs

If you still have questions about tours to the Statue of Liberty , these FAQs should help to clear up any confusion.

What is the Statue of Liberty ferry schedule?

The ferry departs from Battery Park every 20-25 minutes, starting at 9:00 am, with the last ferry leaving Battery Park at 3:30 pm. The ride to Liberty Island takes 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind the Statue of Liberty ferry schedule varies slightly depending on whether it’s low or peak season, so I recommend checking ahead of time.

What is the best view of the Statue of Liberty?

The answer depends on what kind of view of the Statue of Liberty you want. If you want an up-close view, the best option is to see it from the water, on a boat tour. That said, you can get amazing views of Lady Liberty from the air on a helicopter tour, or from One World Observatory since it’s the best observation deck in NYC that’s closest to Liberty Island.

When is the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty?

The best time to visit the Statue of Liberty is in the morning because you can avoid the crowds and enjoy more time at the landmark.

How do you see the Statue of Liberty for free?

The cheapest way to see the Statue of Liberty is by visiting the parks that overlook Liberty Island, like Liberty State Park in New Jersey or Battery Park in Manhattan. You could also take the Staten Island ferry, which cruises past Liberty Island. While it doesn’t get as close as the Statue of Liberty ferry, it’s a free activity in NYC that grants you decent views.

With that, you have all the info you need to book your Statue of Liberty tour ! I’m sure one of these tours will appeal to you, but if you have any questions, feel free to leave me a comment below. I’ll be happy to help you out! Until then, have a wonderful trip.

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How To Visit the Statue of Liberty in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: October 29, 2023

Did you know that approximately 4 million people visit the Statue of Liberty every year? It can get pretty hectic but there are some ways around the crowds . In this guide, we’ll help you plan ahead! Here’s everything you need to know about how to visit the Statue of Liberty from how to get tickets, to the best tours, what to see, and more!

Pro Tip: Planning your trip to NYC? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our guide to New York City for more planning resources, our best NYC tours for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in NYC .

Visiting the Statue of Liberty: What We’ll Cover

The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States—a symbol of friendly alliance and appreciation. Over the years since the statue took its place on Liberty Island in 1886, many marveled at the sight of this iconic monument as they sought a better life and it came to represent something more—the promise of freedom and the possibility for their dreams to come true. As you prepare for your visit to the Statue of Liberty, here’s what you need to know:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• How to get there
• What to see at the Statue of Liberty
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of the Statue of Liberty
• Where to eat inside and nearby

Statue of Liberty Opening Hours and Tickets

The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island, so you’ll need to take a ferry to get there. When you purchase your ticket for the Statue of Liberty, it includes the ferry ride and access to the Ellis Island Museum. Here are the various ticket types:

Ticket Types:

Reserve Ticket : With this ticket, you have access to the grounds and audio guide. However, you cannot go inside the Statue of Liberty.

• Adult: $24.50
• Senior 62+: $18
• Child 4-12: $12
• Child 0-3: Free

Pedestal Reserve Ticket: You’ll get access to everything included in the Reserve ticket, plus access to the Fort Wood Section of the Pedestal.

• Adult: $24.80
• Senior 62+: $18.30
• Child 4-12: $12.30

Crown Reserve Ticket: You’ll get access to everything included in the Pedestal Reserve ticket, plus access to the Crown and Pedestal

There are two ports with departures to the Statue of Liberty. One is Battery Park in New York and the other is Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Statue City Cruises is the only authorized concessioner for ferries.

Battery Park Ferry Hours : 9:30 am – 3:30 pm, every 30 minutes

Planning a trip to see the Statue of Liberty in NYC? Skip the research and book a tour that will save you the guesswork. See our incredible tours and experiences including Lady Liberty.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  New York Guide for more resources.

How Long To Spend at the Statue of Liberty

Short Answer : 3 to 4 hours

When you purchase a ticket to see the Statue of Liberty, you’re actually buying three items: A ferry ride, Statue of Liberty Access, and Access to the Ellis Island Museum. Be sure to keep that in mind.

The Ferry Ride

You’ll start your adventure at either Battery Park in NYC or Liberty State Park across the bay in New Jersey. The ferry works like a hop-on, hop-off bus with stops at Liberty Island (where the Statue of Liberty is) and Ellis Island before returning to the port.

It takes around 15-20 minutes to arrive at each destination. So, there’s just enough time to enjoy some sea views without it being too long.

Liberty Island

Once you arrive at Liberty Island, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Statue of Liberty. Depending on the ticket you have (see above), you’ll either just walk around the island or climb up the statue itself.

I last visited the area in May of 2021 and I’d say if you are not climbing up, give yourself about 2 hours. Why so long? You’ll want to enjoy the views from the various vantage points.

There’s also a cool little museum to visit where you can see the original torch that Lady Liberty held. There’s an audioguide included in the ticket, but you know how that goes…listen for 5 minutes before you put it in your pocket. We recommend taking a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which will make your time more memorable and definitely elevate your experience.

Ellis Island

If you’re thinking of skipping this section and just heading back to the city, I strongly urge you to reconsider. When I arrived at Ellis Island, I was very unprepared for the emotional aspect of the visit. My only exposure to the area previously was from the film “The Godfather”. I honestly found Ellis Island to be just as compelling as the Statue of Liberty!

Considering the size of the museum I would allocate 1.5 hours for your visit. The main area you’ll be visiting is all in one building, but it is quite big and it’s on two floors. You will learn all about the influx of immigrants from all over the world (mostly European) who came in search of a better life in America.

Location: Statue of Liberty

Most Popular New York Tours

Best Selling Tour

Before the Crowds Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

Join us on an epic journey through American history! On this tour you will visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with roundtrip ferry transport included all with a local guide who will describe the city’s amazing history as you visit the picturesque monument.

Top Rated Tour

The New York Met Unveiled: Guided Tour

Visit the most visited art museum in America! You will find artwork from all the world from amazing sculptures to emotional paintings. Your local tour guide will also unveil the secrets of the artists themselves!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to spend 3 days in New York .

How To Get To the Statue of Liberty

Traveling to the Statue of Liberty is pretty simple, you’ll be departing from one of the ferry points located either in Battery Park or Liberty State Park. Before you leave, you should plan your journey to these locations. This way, you’ll be sure to get to Liberty Island early and avoid any unnecessary travel complications or stress along the way. 

Battery Park  

Battery Park is in Manhattan, at the southern tip of the city. It’s surrounded by the New York Harbor and the Hudson River. You can get there on the subway, bus, or train, and they’re super easy to access from different points around the city and even out of state.

 If you head to the MTA website, you can set the destination as Battery Park and add your current location for a display of the best route as well as how to purchase transport tickets (they can be purchased online or at the station kiosks). For a point of reference, from Times Square in New York City, you can take the train southbound from Times Square Station (1, 2, or 3) to the South Ferry Stop. From there, it’s a quick 5-minute walk to Battery Park.

The bus is another good option. From near Times Square, you can take the bus from the 5 Av/W 41 St. Stop to the South Ferry stop as well. The MTA website also provides a detailed schedule of bus routes and times from several different points around the city.

Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park is the other popular point of departure for the ferry that arrives at Liberty Island. This park is located in Jersey City, New Jersey, and similar to Battery Park in NYC, it’s easily accessible via public transport that’s provided throughout the state of New Jersey. Newark Penn Station is one of the most frequently used stations in the state and if you leave from there, you’ll have a relatively simple journey to the destination. 

 As suggested on the Liberty State Park Website, take the PATH subway to the Exchange Place stop in Jersey City. From there, you’ll take the Light Rail to Liberty State Park, followed by a short trip on the shuttle bus to the ferry slip. In addition to Newark Penn Station, you can also embark from Hoboken Station and Journal Square in Jersey City. If you’re interested in learning about alternative departure points, the New Jersey Transit website is a great resource to plan your route with ease. 

What To See at the Statue of Liberty

Once you’re on liberty island, there are a few spots that you should definitely visit. Some of these will depend on the ticket you purchased in advance, so keep reading to get an idea. For a more detailed explanation of each area, read our top things to see at the Statue of Liberty.

• Statue of Liberty Exhibit
• Statue of Liberty Museum
• Statue of Liberty Pedestal
• Statue of Liberty Crown (Get ready to walk up 190 stairs!)

Statue of Liberty Tour Options

Unless you’re planning a trip to NYC on a shoestring budget, you should definitely consider a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty. Besides the benefits of skipping the lines that you get when visiting with an expert guide, a tour will simplify your trip.

With round-trip ferry tickets taken care of and a convenient meeting point in Battery Park, you’ll have nothing to worry about except enjoying your time at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Here is our top guided Statue of Liberty tour with great reviews:

Join us on an epic journey through American history! On this tour you’ll visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with roundtrip ferry transport included all with a local guide who will describe the city’s amazing history as you visit the picturesque monument.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Statue of Liberty Guide for more resources.

Facts and History of the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty has some impressive numbers. Here are some cool numbers about this amazing statue:

• Amount of copper used: 62,000 lbs. ( 31 tons).
• Weight of concrete foundation: 54,000,000 lbs. (125 tons).
• The thickness of copper sheeting: 3/32 of an inch, the thickness of two pennies placed together.
• Wind sway: 50 mph winds cause the statue to sway up to 3 inches and the torch up to 6 inches.
• Direction: It is facing southeast so people can see the statue when entering the harbor.
• The Tablet: It reads July 4th, 1776—the date of American Independence.
• The Torch: Is a 1986 replacement. It is copper, covered in 24k gold leaf.
• Height of the Statue of Liberty: 154 feet.

Statue of Liberty History

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France. In 1865, Edouard de Laboulaye, an important French political thinker and supporter of Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War proposed to create a monument for the United States.

His reasoning was that the victory of the Union in the Civil War reaffirmed the United State’s ideals of freedom and democracy. As a result, honoring the United States would at the same time strengthen the causes for Democracy in France.

Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi was the man that made it happen. Bartholdi was a famous French sculptor, best known for his work on the Statue of Liberty. He was elected by Edouard de Laboulaye as the sculptor to build a monument that could commemorate the kinship between France and the United States as well as appreciation for President Abraham Lincoln’s work.

Bartholdi previously worked with Laboulaye in the designing of his bust and was excited to work on the project that came to life over the span of a few years. Thus, the Statue of Liberty was born. 

How was it built?

The construction of the statue began in France in 1876. Bartholdi enlisted a number of French craftsmen to help in the process of transforming his unique ideas into reality. The various parts of the statue were created separately and then shipped to the United States for assembly in 1885.

Upon visiting New York City, Bartholdi chose Liberty Island as its home because of the high level of visibility, which he described as the “gateway to America.” Most of us can agree that the location was a perfect choice, not only is the statue a signature attraction of the city, it’s a symbol of America and its core ideals. 

Once the statue arrived, assembly began very quickly along with the construction of the pedestal upon which it still stands tall today. The process was officially completed in 1886 and celebrated with a large dedication ceremony that was held shortly after. Around a million New Yorkers came out to revel in the unveiling of the statue, a part of a grand history that was yet to fully unfold. 

Interested in finding out more? Read our article on the history of the Statue of Liberty or join our expert local guides on a Statue of Liberty tour —by far the best way to learn more about this iconic NYC landmark.

Places To Eat Inside and Nearby

There are limited options to eat when you depart for the Statue of Liberty. If you go in the morning, I suggest eating in the city when you return. A picnic is also a great idea. Here are a few recommendations for places to eat:

On the Ferry: There are snack stands where you can purchase refreshments and healthy snacks

Crown Café : $$ | Quick Snacks —This is the only place on Liberty Island where you can actually get food. You can get burgers, pizzas, and even sushi in this cafeteria-style café.

Ellis Café : $$ | Quick Snacks —Same as the Crown Café, but on Ellis Island.

Have a Picnic : Liberty Island is actually considered a park, so there is lots of open areas. Grab some food from a local gourmet grocery store in New York and have a leisurely lunch in the sun.

Near the Statue of Liberty:

Hotdog Truck: A quick and easy way to eat like the locals. I’ve eaten from them hundreds of times and never gotten sick. You’ll find them all over the place. Go for it!

The Dead Rabbit : $$ | Irish Pub —Great pub food and strong drinks. What else could you ask for after sightseeing all morning long?

Where To Stay in NYC

New York City is the center of the universe to those who adore this iconic city. Choose the best neighborhood to stay in as you plan your upcoming trip to the Big Apple.

About Brandon Shaw

Brandon is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He left the States to travel the world at 18 and never looked back! As an official Tour Guide of Rome and Certified Sommelier, he loves to travel the world and share these experiences with his readers.

Reader Interactions

Comment (1).

June 12, 2021

Hi Brandon. FYI, ferries from NJ are back open!

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Battery Park, NY - New York City (Manhattan) Departure Parking - parking is limited near Battery Park. Public transportation is recom­mended for your visit to the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island Immigration Museum if departing from New York. Visit www.mta.info for more information regarding public transportation to the statue ferry.

By Subway - Local 1 (7th Avenue Line) to South Ferry, or Express (Lexington Avenue Line) 4 or 5 to Bowling Green, or Local from Brooklyn/Queens R/W to Whitehall Street Station.

By Bus - M15 (East Side) South Ferry, or M6 (West Side) from 57th street.

By Car - East Side - take FDR Drive South, Exit 1 South Ferry Battery Park. West Side - take Westside Highway South (9A) to Battery Park.

Liberty State Park, NJ - New Jersey Terminal Departure The ticketing and departure areas at Liberty State Park are located by the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal near the water. Parking ia available for a fee. This is an ideal departure location for you if you are traveling by car, motorhome or private bus. Liberty State Park is also accessible by taxi, ferry and public transportation.

By Public Transportation - Take the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) to the Liberty State Park Station, then walk or bike 1 mile on Audrey Zapp Drive to the ticket office area located by the CRRNJ Terminal. From the ticket office/security tent areas, walk 1/3 of a mile to the ferry gangway for departures. At the entrance of Liberty State Park, the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail is accessible by PATH at the Hoboken Station or Newport (Jersey City) Station. More information about NJ Transit's Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR)-Liberty State Park station.

By Car - From the New Jersey Turnpike take exit 14-B and follow the signs to Liberty State Park.

By Ferry - Liberty Landing Ferry Service - from the World Financial Terminal in New York to the Liberty Landing Marina at Liberty State Park, NJ. Visitors with ferry tickets to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island will receive $2 discount on Liberty Landing Ferry Service tickets.

Thank you for visiting www.statueoflibertytickets.com . Reservations and E-tickets are genuine for the tour which includes the ferry service. We also provide extended around-the-clock customer care seven days a week, including holidays. This website is not affiliated with any government entity and is not the official box office. Ticket price exceeds face value. We are a private Customer Service and Booking company. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction. Please share your experience with us at: Customer Care .  

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The Statue of Liberty Museum

Explore the meaning of liberty.

With its combination of breathtaking views and living history, the Statue of Liberty Museum stands as an inspiring and dynamic part of the Liberty Island experience, inviting visitors to dive into the story behind the sculpture and immerse themselves in unique artifacts.

Opened in 2019, the 26,000 square-foot museum is a destination unto itself. Beautifully designed, universally accessible, and housing an extraordinary and engaging collection of American heirlooms, the Museum enhances visits to the Island with interactive exhibits that enable visitors to explore the Statue’s grandeur without the need for additional advanced reservations or tickets.

WHAT TO SEE

The story of an icon.

Embark on a breathtaking, virtual fly-through of the Statue’s interior and enjoy a captivating multimedia adventure that introduces you to the sweeping story of Lady Liberty and the ideals she represents.

Building a Monument

Step inside the warehouse where Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi built the Statue of Liberty. A series of multimedia displays evokes the sculptor’s studio, taking you through the process of the monument’s construction.

Carrying the Torch

Your visit to the Statue of Liberty Museum culminates in the awe-inspiring Inspiration Gallery. Here visitors can add their portrait to the Becoming Liberty collage and get an up-close view of Liberty’s most recognizable symbol – her original torch.

BRINGING THE MUSEUM TO LIFE

Making of the museum.

Constructing a building on a small island in the middle of a busy harbor is no small feat! It took years of planning, hundreds of skilled workers, and contributions from thousands of generous donors to make the Statue of Liberty Museum a reality.

Museum Construction Time-Lapse

Relocating the Original Torch

The Founders Registry

The museum is able to preserve the promise of Lady Liberty through the support of our dedicated community and our generous Founders.

Our Major Donors

Inspired by all that Lady Liberty represents and the museum’s mission to tell her story, dozens of philanthropists answered the call to make the museum a reality.

Explore our Major Donors         Learn about the Star Donors 

Museum Information

The Statue of Liberty Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and legacy of a remarkable American treasure. Unique collections and modern galleries provide an enhanced educational experience, inviting visitors to contemplate the meaning of the Statue and explore history in thought-provoking ways.

A stirring and engaging destination, the Museum acts as an extension of the park and of the monument itself. By sharing Lady Liberty’s story, we provide a powerful lesson in the fragility of freedom, and help visitors gain a new appreciation for one of the world’s most inspiring icons.

Honoring her legacy

To commemorate the Statue of Liberty Museum, our generous supporters at Liberty Mutual Insurance commissioned a poem of hope and unity by U.S. Poet Laureate (2017-2019) Tracy K. Smith.

Ensuring her legacy

The Museum is made possible through the generosity of visitors like you. Help write her next verse by supporting our efforts.

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January 12, 2022

Where To Buy Tickets for the Statue of Liberty

By Gabriela Hammond

Visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the most exciting things to do in New York City. It might seem touristy, but there’s so much to learn and it’s actually quite cheap compared to other attractions in the city.

However, planning your visit can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to walk you through every step from buying your tickets to avoiding a scam. We’ll answer any questions you might have to ensure that you’re prepped for your next visit.

How to get tickets to the Statue of Liberty

As you prepare to get tickets for the Statue of Liberty, there are really just two main things to keep in mind — plan ahead and make sure you’re getting what you want.

You should plan ahead because this is one of the most visited attractions in New York, and you want to secure your preferred time and date. And you need to research the options available so the experience is what you’re looking for.

First, decide if you want to visit Liberty Island only or both Liberty and Ellis Island. The ferry will take you to both. Then, consider if you want to take a guided tour or go on your own. If you don’t want to do a tour, you can buy tickets through the ferry website . If you do want to do a tour, you can buy them here at Statue of Liberty Tour, either for Liberty Island or for both Liberty and Ellis islands .

Here are the steps to get Statue of Liberty tickets with a guided tour included:

• Choose the express tour with just Liberty Island or the full tour with Ellis Island as well.
• Click “Book Now.”
• Enter the number of guests, and select your preferred date and time.
• Accept the terms, and add the tickets to your cart.
• Enter your billing information.
• Look for an email confirmation. Your guide will have your ferry tickets and handle all the details when you arrive.

How to get skip-the-line Statue of Liberty tickets

As travelers, we love the idea of skipping lines to jump straight to the front, but if you hear about skip-the-line Statue of Liberty tickets, that’s a bit of a misnomer.

There are timed-entry ferry tickets, but there is still a line for the security screening, and everyone goes through that, no cutting to the front.

With these timed tickets, there’s an assigned boarding time and a separate line to wait for the ferry. Since only a certain number of tickets are sold per time slot, this makes your overall wait shorter as well — but there is a line.

Your tour guide will let you know when you’re allowed to enter the ferry line since that time is assigned on your ticket. You can enter the line any time after your assigned time, up to the last ferry of the day.

Here are some answers to questions people often ask about skip-the-line Statue of Liberty ferry tickets.

• When is the earliest time available? It’s a half hour before the first ferry departs.
• How long are time slots? They’re each an hour long.
• Can you get into line after your time has passed? Yes, entering the ferry line after your time slot is fine, just not before. However, if you’re traveling with a tour, you should make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your tour start time.

There are no “skip-the-line” tickets for attractions on Liberty Island, such as the pedestal, crown or the Statue of Liberty Museum. (The museum doesn’t typically have a line, however, as admission is included with your ticket.)

How to get tickets to the Statue of Liberty if you don’t want a tour

The process for buying tickets to the Statue of Liberty without a tour can be done online or in person. If buying in person, you simply stand in line at Castle Clinton in Battery Park on the day of your visit.

If you choose to buy ferry tickets online, here are the steps to take:

• Before your trip, visit the Statue Cruises website and select “Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tickets” from the top.
• Choose which type of ticket you would like to purchase (Reserve, Pedestal Reserve or Crown Reserve).
• From there you will choose which park you are departing from. If you are coming from New York City, select “Battery Park.”
• Then you will select a date, reservation time, and the number of adults, children, and seniors.
• Enter your billing and payment information.
• Once the purchase is complete, you can choose to either print your tickets OR pick them up at Will Call inside Castle Clinton.

How much are ferry tickets to the Statue of Liberty?

Since the cost of the ferry is included in your ticket, the price for the ferry is the same price as the cheapest ticket for the Statue of Liberty. Note that this option does not include a tour. If you book one of our tours, your ferry ticket is included.

The price for each ticket depends on which type of ticket you choose to purchase. There is no price benefit to buying a ticket in advance besides saving time when you arrive. Any child under the age of 4 gets free admission, no ticket required.

• For adults (13 to 61): $24
• For children (4 to 12): $12
• For seniors (62+): $18

COVID-19 note: Access to the Statue of Liberty crown is still closed due to the pandemic. The crown will be part of a later reopening phase. The Liberty Island Information Center is also closed at this time. Everything else on both islands is open.

Are Statue of Liberty tickets refundable?

For any ticket, there’s a possibility of a full refund if the cancellation is made in advance. This is true whether or not you have signed up for a guided tour.

If you booked a tour with us, you can simply reach out to us via email or chat to request a refund or reschedule your tour. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 24 hours before your tour start time. Within 24 hours of your tour, we can’t allow free rescheduling or cancellation as we have already incurred hard costs on our end. If you do need to reschedule or cancel, we encourage you to reach out as soon as possible.

If you didn’t book with us and need a refund, submit the request online for processing.

Can you buy tickets for the Statue of Liberty the day of?

Yes, you can still get tickets for the Statue of Liberty on the day of your visit, subject to availability, of course.

If buying online, the process is the same as detailed above, except your reservation times may be limited or unavailable. You can always reach out to us via chat at the bottom of our website if you have questions about getting same-day tickets.

You can try to get ferry tickets in person the day of your visit at Castle Clinton in Battery Park, but this won’t allow a tour option and you’ll have to wait in a potentially long ticket line.

Tips to remember if you’re buying same-day statue tickets

Crown tickets: Keep in mind that crown tickets are always sold out the day of, and there’s a chance pedestal tickets could be as well. (Note: The crown is currently closed due to COVID-19.)

When to get there: The earlier you get to Castle Clinton, the less time you’ll spend waiting. The ticket office opens 30 minutes before the first departure so you can have your tickets bought before the first boat even leaves.

How long it takes: When you buy in person, the line could be anywhere from five minutes to an hour. It really depends on the time of year and crowd levels.

Besides the possibility of waiting in a very long line, there are other risks that come with buying your tickets the same day. The last boat from Battery Park leaves between 3-5 p.m. (depending on the season), so if you arrive to buy your tickets at 2 p.m. there’s a chance you will miss the last ferry.

Also, it takes time to see both islands. So if your goal is to see Liberty and Ellis Island during your trip, you need to make sure you have your tickets purchased before noon. This can be tricky when lines are unpredictable.

Advance tickets to the Statue of Liberty

Advance tickets to the statue are purchased online, using the process mentioned above. If you prefer, you can also call to purchase tickets on the Statue of Liberty ticket line number.

Remember that general admission, pedestal and crown tickets can be purchased in advance online. They used to offer flex tickets, purchased the same day in person at Castle Clinton, but now there is one simple general admission as well as the separate ticket for pedestal and (when it opens) crown access.

Guide tip: Generally, buying tickets in advance is better and easier. You’ll spend less time waiting in line, you can guarantee that you’ll be able to see everything you want to see, and you can better plan out your visit. There’s no cost savings with buying in advance, but it saves on convenience!

How to get tickets to the pedestal

A pedestal ticket includes access to the inside of the statue’s pedestal as well as the 360-degree outdoor balcony that sits just below Lady Liberty’s feet.

Tour groups aren’t generally allowed on the pedestal, but if you’re visiting on your own, you can buy tickets for the pedestal online or the day of at Castle Clinton. Just be sure to ask for a “pedestal reserve ticket.”

Availability is not guaranteed since only a few thousand people are permitted inside each day. If you’re set on climbing the pedestal, it is best to buy in advance.

After you buy, you can choose to print the tickets yourself or pick them up at Will Call. The pickup window is located inside Castle Clinton.

How to get tickets to the crown

COVID-19 reminder: Access to the Statue of Liberty crown is currently closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, but we’ve provided info below that applied pre-pandemic so you have it for reference when the crown reopens.

Crown tickets include access to the pedestal as well as the crown of the statue.

After you climb the initial 192 steps to the pedestal, it’s then another 162 steps to reach the crown. Inside is a small viewing platform with 25 windows.

The view is mostly of Brooklyn and New York Harbor, with Manhattan just peeking through in the corner. Here’s what I saw when I visited the Statue of Liberty crown .

Crown ticket availability: Crown tickets are very difficult to get as only 300 are sold each day. You must buy crown tickets in advance as they’re always sold out the day of. Tickets can be bought online by selecting “Crown Reserve Ticket.”

When to buy crown tickets: Aim to purchase your crown ticket at least 3-4 months in advance.

Unlike pedestal tickets, crown tickets must be picked up at Will Call. You’ll get an additional wristband to signify your crown access (very fancy) and must present a photo ID for yourself and anyone picking up a crown ticket.

Admission to the Statue of Liberty Museum

The Statue of Liberty Museum is located on Liberty Island, and admission is completely free. So no matter which ticket you purchase, it will also be your ticket to visit the museum.

There’s no need to show your ticket to enter the museum and you can visit at any point during your time at Liberty Island.

Scam alert: Fake tickets to the Statue of Liberty

There is a recurring problem with tourists being tricked into buying tickets to the Statue of Liberty when, in reality, they’ve actually bought tickets for a boat that takes them near the statue.

Not only are these fake tickets more expensive, but they’re essentially a scam since people are promised something that they won’t get. This is what Alec Baldwin complained about that got so much press.

Important: The only company that has authority to bring you to the statue is Statue Cruises. If the ticket is not sold by that company or an affiliated tour company like ours, you will not be taken to Liberty Island. If you’re taking a guided tour with us, we purchase the ferry ticket for you and you ride over with your guide who takes you on a tour of the island — but you’re still taking the Statue Cruises boat to the island.

A lot of times, these scammy sellers will approach you at Battery Park and say anything to convince you to buy from them. They might tell you that the wait is three hours or that their view is better. Make sure you know what you’re buying before you purchase. There’s no faster way to see the Statue of Liberty than taking the ferry using a skip-the-line ticket, whether with or without a guided tour. If someone says something else, be careful!

Guide tip: My advice? Ignore the street sellers. Even if you’re headed to Castle Clinton to buy the tickets the day of, see for yourself just how long the line is and decide if it’s worth it to you to actually visit the island that day, return another day, or settle for a boat ride that takes you near Liberty Island. If you opt for the boat ride, please do your research on reputable companies rather than getting pressured into buying something you’re not sure about.

How to see the Statue of Liberty for free (without a ticket)

Wondering how to see the Statue of Liberty for free ? You’re not the only one — which is why we wrote a whole blog post just about that.

If paying to see the Statue of Liberty doesn’t interest you, there are a number of ways to see it from a distance for free. Of course, the view won’t be as up-close as the one that you pay for on Liberty Island, but in my opinion, Lady Liberty is always beautiful.

Here are some places you can check out:

• Edge of Battery Park: You’ll see the Statue of Liberty rising from the surrounding bay and a horizon filled with the skylines of Staten Island and Brooklyn.
• The Staten Island Ferry: Take a free boat ride that offers views of the statue, Ellis Island, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. Here’s a handy Staten Island Ferry guide one of our other NYC tour guides wrote about that has lots of helpful info.
• Liberty State Park in New Jersey: This beautiful park along the Hudson River also offers an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline and Ellis Island.

Where to buy tickets for Statue of Liberty tours

Tours of the Statue of Liberty typically means a guide will meet you in Battery Park and lead you through one or both islands. It can make the whole experience easier and more meaningful.

Benefits of having a Statue of Liberty guide

• Guides help you manage security before getting you on the boat.
• They prepare you for what to expect at Liberty and Ellis islands.
• They keep you entertained on the ride over.
• They orient you at the islands so you don’t miss anything.
• They enrich your experience and handle all the details to make it easy.

Where to book

There are several companies that offer tours to the Statue of Liberty. Sites like Tripadvisor and GetYourGuide list options. Read reviews and get to know more about the company and what they offer before making your decision.

While you can book tickets through third-party sellers like Tripadvisor, you can also book directly through a tour company. As mentioned above, just make sure it’s a tour company that includes a visit to the islands (your ferry ticket) and not just a cruise passing by the statue.

What’s usually included: Typically a tour company will include your ticket in the cost of the tour. Just double check where exactly the tour will take you. Some companies offer tickets to the pedestal while others only guide you around the island. There are no tours allowed inside the museum or crown. So be prepared to tour the museum on your own, and make sure to purchase your own ticket if you wish to visit the crown.

• Our Statue of Liberty Express Tour is two hours, and our guide takes you on a tour of Liberty Island. You’ll have the option to see Ellis Island on your own if you like.
• Our Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour is longer but more comprehensive since it also includes a guided visit to Ellis Island.

How much does it cost to visit the Statue of Liberty?

While the initial ticket prices (ranging from around $12-$24 depending on your age) aren’t overly expensive, the cost of visiting the statue adds up quickly. There are other costs to take into account as well.

Food: Food is available on both islands and may be necessary if you’re planning on staying for a few hours. Prices range from $10-$25 per meal, depending on what you get. You can choose to bring food in order to save money, but if you’re planning on visiting the pedestal or crown, it must be placed in a locker. Excluding water, food and drink aren’t permitted inside the statue.

Transportation: To get to Battery Park, taxi cabs are an option but can be expensive. The cheapest option is the subway. At $2.75 a swipe, you can travel far for little money. Take the 4 or 5 train to Battery Park for the most direct route. You could also take the R or W train to Whitehall Street or the 1 train to South Ferry.

Parking: There are plenty of parking garages nearby if you’re traveling by car. But these tend to be pricey. Most garages will start at a rate of about $20 per hour.

Souvenirs: Finally, many people love a good souvenir. There are three different souvenir shops on Liberty Island, all of them with a wide range of products. Unless you’re sure you don’t want anything, I would set aside $30-$40 for souvenirs. You never know what you might decide you’d like to have. Of course, taking your own photos is always free!

Tips from a guide for getting Statue of Liberty tickets

As you can see, getting tickets to the statue isn’t overly difficult. You just have to know what you want to see and when you want to buy.

There’s plenty of options, including booking a guided tour . Personally, I think signing up for a guided tour is the best way to experience both islands, although — full disclosure — I’m a local NYC guide. But it is a great way to help you learn more and enjoy your visit stress-free.

Here are my best tips for statue ticket success:

• Buy them in advance online. I’ve seen the line for same-day ticket purchases stretch all across the park with 2-3 hours of wait time. Spending the time to buy online, whether with a tour or without, seems worth it to avoid that headache.
• Print your tickets: I also recommend printing the tickets yourself in order to avoid Will Call. While there is hardly ever much of a wait, it means you can arrive and head right for the ferry.

No matter what you choose, visiting the statue is not nearly as complicated as some people think. Over 4 million people do it per year. With these tips to help with your visit, you’ll be more prepared and the experience will be that much easier and more enjoyable

Protect Your Trip »

The 6 best statue of liberty cruises + tips from a local.

Complete your New York City experience with an exhilarating boat trip.

The Best Statue of Liberty Cruises

Courtesy of Statue City Cruises

Enjoy the sea air while you take in stunning New York City views.

The best view of New York might not be in the city itself, but from the harbor looking back at the skyline. Sightseeing cruises are a wonderful reminder that Manhattan is, in fact, an island, and getting out on the water offers a breezy cruise in addition to a fresh vantage point.

With a cold drink in hand, you'll see not just the Statue of Liberty , but also other top city landmarks from the Brooklyn Bridge to One World Trade Center. These boat tours allow visitors to zoom out and get a new perspective, then return to Manhattan refreshed by the wind, water, light and sheer size of the skyline.

There are different boat experiences to match every type of traveler, and here are some of the best.

Best Overall: Statue City Cruises

Price: From $24.50

Duration: At your own pace, with ferries departing every 25 to 30 minutes

Standout perk: Admission to the grounds of Liberty Island and Ellis Island are included in this sightseeing cruise and ferry service to Lady Liberty.

The best overall value and experience belongs to Statue City Cruises, which combines the scenery of a sightseeing cruise with the in-depth experience of an attraction tour. Priority entry included with the ticket saves time at the departure point at The Battery . On board the round-trip ferry service, visitors will experience all the sweeping views of a New York Harbor cruise, including skyscrapers of the Financial District and beyond.

The first stop is Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty. Audio tours in a dozen languages are available so you can go at your own pace. Those interested can continue via boat service to Ellis Island, home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which contains several fascinating exhibits and the chance to look up your ancestors. Explore at your leisure, then utilize the ferry service back to lower Manhattan.

Local tip: Choose a time as early as possible in the morning for this experience. Ferry service and crowds at Lady Liberty grow throughout the day and swell on weekends; a weekday morning is the best choice.

Best for Adults: Manhattan by Sail's Day Sail – Shearwater

Price: From $60 for adults

Duration: 90 minutes

Standout perk: This cruise provides a true sailing experience on a classic schooner.

Don't be surprised to bump into New Yorkers on the Shearwater, a schooner with tall sails that entices even jaded Manhattanites to go for a ride. Climb aboard this "Gatsby"-era boat, with capacity for 48 people, from the dock at North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place and set out on a sail down the Hudson River and into the New York Harbor. Trade city crowds for the open water with this cruise, complete with a cash bar, that offers up-close views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline.

This experience, conveniently available at different times throughout the day, is a match for adults seeking a more sophisticated sail – think: hip vibe, ample bar, music and an emphasis on service. Several upgrades are available, including sails that offer a wine tasting or live jazz on board. Every sailing offers the chance to snap your photograph with Lady Liberty herself, though you won't be disembarking at Liberty Island.

Local tip: Adults seeking a romantic cruise may want to opt for the Sunset Sail on the Shearwater Classic Schooner.

Best for Families: Circle Line's Liberty Super Express Downtown

Courtesy of Circle Line

Price: From $29

Duration: 50 minutes

Standout perk: Maximize time with this express cruise, featuring convenient, regular departures.

Families with limited time (or kids with limited attention spans) may appreciate a quick express cruise option. This fast and friendly tour, at just 50 minutes, is a speedy way to get the experience of a boat cruise without it taking a bite out of your day. Hop aboard a boat with Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – the sister company to New York Water Taxi – and choose between either the open air of the top deck or the temperature-controlled cabin. On a sunny day, the outdoor deck with its sea breeze is the place to be as the boat sails past the Statue of Liberty.

Get unobstructed views of Lady Liberty and snap some family photographs before returning to Pier 16 in the South Street Seaport. Quick, efficient and featuring live narration from a guide, this sightseeing ride is excellent value packed into a short time span.

Local tip: Kids interested in ships may want to visit the South Street Seaport Museum, near the cruise departure point, to see model ships and more.

Read: The Top NYC Dinner Cruises

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Best Budget: Staten Island Ferry

Courtesy of SIFerry.com

Price: Free

Duration: 25 minutes each way

Standout perk: Get out on the water to see the Statue of Liberty without paying a cent.

The best budget sightseeing cruise isn't a cruise at all, but rather a free mode of local transportation: the Staten Island Ferry. While many of even the most basic harbor cruises start at about $20, this ferry offers a completely free, ticketless cruise in the New York Harbor, bypassing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island along the way. With service every 30 minutes and no reservations or tickets required, the ferry is not only a steal price-wise, but also a convenient option for travelers who don't want to be tied down to a ticketed departure time.

Stand out on deck and admire views of Lady Liberty during this journey that crosses about 5 miles from Whitehall Street at the tip of lower Manhattan to St. George on Staten Island. The only drawback is that you must depart the ferry in Staten Island and reboard for the trip back to Manhattan – a small "price" to pay for a free boat ride in NYC.

Local tip: Visitors will want to avoid rush hour; these commuter boats can be crowded. Choose a time outside commuting rush hour to maximize the peaceful experience.

Best Luxury: Classic Harbor Line's Statue and Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Courtesy of Classic Harbor Line

Price: From $64 for adults

Duration: 1.5 hours

Standout perk: This intimate cruise on a 1920s-inspired yacht comes with one complimentary drink included.

Board a yacht at Pier 62 in Chelsea for a polished cruise including views of the New York Harbor's top landmark: the Statue of Liberty. Set sail in style aboard a yacht inspired by the roaring '20s, complete with a solarium and open-air decks as well as a climate-controlled cabin. Cruise down the west side of Manhattan and check out views of The Battery, the Financial District, Governor's Island and more.

Of all the available New York City harbor cruises, guests often praise this one for the quality of the staff running the Classic Harbor Line cruises. With an emphasis on service, an intimate group with a maximum of 80 passengers and an onboard stocked bar, this cruise offers a sophisticated option for seeing Lady Liberty.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 62, which is home to a riverfront carousel for kids and a pretty stretch of Hudson River Park. Stop into Chelsea Market for some picnic supplies and relax in the park before your cruise.

Best Sunset Cruise: Circle Line's Harbor Lights

Price: From $45

Duration: 2 hours

Standout perk: Watch the skyscrapers of the Manhattan skyline flicker to life.

Circle Line offers a variety of cruises with different itineraries. One of the most popular is the Harbor Lights tour, a cruise departing from Midtown Manhattan that includes golden sunset views and a photo stop at the Statue of Liberty. See NYC landmarks like Hudson Yards, Chelsea Piers and One World Trade Center before cruising out into the New York Harbor. You'll get to learn about New York from onboard narration as the itinerary continues past Liberty Island and beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.

While the sun sets and the Manhattan skyscrapers flash to life, relax on the outdoor deck space and visit the onboard bar to purchase beer, wine, cocktails and light snacks. A temperature-controlled cabin is available for hot days. Wi-Fi is free on board and allows for easy posting of sunset photos.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 83 in Midtown Manhattan. Arrive early to visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum at neighboring Pier 86.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jessica Colley Clarke is a New York-based freelance writer. She loves to take visiting family and friends out on the water in the New York Harbor for a fresh perspective on the Manhattan skyline and beyond. Colley Clarke used her expertise to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Statue of Liberty Tours
• The Top Observation Decks in New York City
• The Top New York City Tours
• The Top Boston Harbor Cruises
• The Top River Cruise Lines

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Statue of Liberty ferry – tickets, prices, schedule, how & where to board

Visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the most rewarding experiences of a New York holiday.

The only way to get to the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island is through the ferries operated by Statue City Cruises.

The ferry tickets include access to the massive Statue of Liberty, Liberty Museum, and National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for a Statue of Liberty ferry.

Top Statue of Liberty ferry Tickets

# Statue of Liberty ferry tickets # Cruise Around Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island # Statue of Liberty Tour and Ellis Island Guided Tour

Table of contents

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Statue City Cruises is the only official ferry operator for the Statue of Liberty.

Statue of Liberty ferries set sail from Battery Park in New York and Liberty State Park in New Jersey all through the day.

Liberty Island is approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) by water from both Battery Park and Liberty State Park.

Check out all the different types of Statue of Liberty ferry tickets .

Most tourists visiting the Statue of Liberty board their ferry from Battery Park, New York.

Mostly because the visitors are already holidaying in New York, and Battery Park is better connected by public transportation.

This is why booking  your Statue of Liberty ferry tickets  much in advance is better.

Address:  Battery Park has no street address. However, if you plan on using Google Maps, you can enter ’17 State Street, New York.

Or  click here for directions .

Getting to Battery Park

Since parking lots are limited in Lower Manhattan, we recommend public transport to Battery Park.

It is best to take a subway to Battery Park.

Once you get off the subway, you can walk to the Statue Cruises ticket office in  Castle Clinton .

Local 1 and R trains stop at  South Ferry/Whitehall Street Station , a New York City Subway station complex in the Manhattan neighborhood.

A five-minutes walk can get you from South Ferry Station to Castle Clinton. 

EXPRESS (Lexington Avenue Line) trains 4 and 5 stop at the  Bowling Green Station , and a brisk two-minute walk can get you to the Statue Cruises ticketing counter. 

Get on to M5, M15, or M20 and get down at the South Ferry stop .

You can’t miss the sign for the Statue of Liberty ferries.

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It is better to book the Statue of Liberty ferry from New Jersey in advance. On the ticket booking page, visitors must select their port of departure.

If you prefer to board the Statue of Liberty ferry from Jersey City, you must get to Liberty State Park. 

Liberty State Park has ample car and bus parking at the ferry area. However, the public transportation connectivity isn’t as good. 

Parking at Liberty State Park is US$7 per car. 

Address:  Liberty State Park, 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ.  Get Directions

Getting to Liberty State Park

Because of the lack of good public transport options, fewer tourists board the Statue Cruises ferry from Liberty State Park.

By Light Rail

Get to  Hudson-Bergen Light Rail , which runs through the Jersey City and New Jersey area, and get down at the  Liberty State Park station .

This station is 1 mile (1.6 km) from the ferry location, and since there is no public transport option, it is best to get an Uber.

For approximately US$13, an Uber can get you to the Statue Cruises ticket office in the  CRRNJ Terminal .

However, if you drive to the Terminal, you can park at the free  Statue of Liberty Parking  and take a brisk seven-minute walk to the CRRNJ Terminal.

Visitors must pay US$7 per car to use the parking slots near Liberty State Park’s ferry dock.

Follow the link for a more detailed article on taking the Statue of Liberty ferry from New Jersey .

Statue of Liberty ferry routes

Depending on where you board the Statue of Liberty ferry, the order in which you visit the tourist attractions varies.

This section explains the route the Statue of Liberty boats take and the stops they make.

All Statue of Liberty Cruises, which sail from Battery Park in New York, first go to Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands in all its glory.

Then they sail to Ellis Island and finally back to Battery Park.

In short, when you board the Statue Cruises ferry from Battery Park, you see the Statue of Liberty first and then the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

When you start early on a summer day, this order is better because the Statue of Liberty is an outdoor attraction, and you get to explore it before it gets too hot.

And by the time the sun is at its peak, you are inside the Ellis Island Museum.

Check out the video to see how your trip to the Statue of Liberty pans out when you start from Battery Park, New York.

If you plan to board the Statue of Liberty boat from New York, please select Battery Park, New York, as the starting point on the ticket booking page .

All Statue of Liberty boats sailing from Liberty State Park in New Jersey first go to Ellis Island, which has the Immigration Museum.

Then, they sail to Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty monument is displayed, and back to Liberty State Park.

If you start early during the summer, this order may be less comfortable because you will explore the Statue of Liberty monument when the temperatures are high.

Let’s say if you start at 10 am, you are likely to be done with the Immigration Museum by 12 or so, and you may be at the Statue of Liberty when the sun is at its peak.

You can’t change the order, but you can change it when you start your tour.

During the peak summer months, if you board the ferry around 1 pm, you will be done with the Ellis Island Museum by 3 pm and be at the Statue of Liberty by 3.30 pm.

And since the Liberty Island grounds close at 6.20 pm during these months, you will have around three hours to explore the Statue of Liberty.

Check out the video to see how your trip to the Statue of Liberty pans out when you start from Liberty State Park, New York.

If you plan to board the Statue of Liberty boat from New Jersey, please select Liberty State Park, NJ, as the starting point on the ticket booking page .

The  Big Apple Pass  includes tickets to a 60-minute Stat ue of Liberty cruise, the Empire State Building, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. You also get a 23% discount code, which you can use (five times!) to get discounts on future purchases.

Wherever you start from – Battery Park or Liberty State Park, the ferry ride to Liberty Island usually takes 15 minutes or less.

However, during peak times, you may have to wait for your turn and even let go of a ferry because it was full.

But it is relatively easy because a Statue Cruises ferry boat sails out every 20-25 minutes.

The ferry ride from Liberty Island to Ellis Island takes 15 minutes or less.

Note: During peak seasons (the summer months), you may have to wait up to 60 minutes in line to board a ferry.

You can get on a return ferry whenever you want – after exploring one Island or both Islands.

You need not necessarily get back to the same place from where you boarded the Statue of Liberty ferry.

You can depart from Battery Park and return to Liberty State Park or from Liberty State Park and return to Battery Park – it is your choice. 

You must be careful and use the correct boarding location on each Island. 

For instance, if you wanted to return to Battery Park and by mistake reach Liberty State Park (by boarding the wrong ferry), you can’t board the boat again to return to your original departure location. 

Tourists who get on the wrong return ferry use the Liberty Landing Ferry Service between Liberty State Park and Manhattan to get back.

Statue of Liberty ferry schedule

Every 20 to 25 minutes, a ferry leaves Battery Park to go to Liberty Island and leaves Liberty State Park to go to Ellis Island.

Both Battery Park and Liberty State Park follow the same ferry schedule.

During the mid-March to mid-October high season, the first ferry from Battery Park and Liberty State Park set sail at 8.30 am.

During the low season, the first ferry starts at 9 am. 

And since the Statue of Liberty monument’s closing hours differ throughout the year, the timing of the last ferry from the Mainland keeps changing.

You must avoid being on the last Statue of Liberty ferry from the Mainland.

The last ferry departing from Battery Park won’t stop at Ellis Island. You can only see the Statue of Liberty but not the Immigration Museum.

Tourists on the last ferry from Liberty State Park can choose the attraction they want to visit: the Statue of Liberty or the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. They can’t see both.

Timings of the last Statue Cruises ferry departing the Statue of Liberty Island also depend on the season.

Liberty Island starts closing thirty minutes before the last ferry back to the Mainland to allow the visitors to get to the dock.

The schedule of the last Statue Cruises ferry departing the Ellis Island also depends on the season.

Need more details? Check out the detailed schedule .

The Statue of Liberty in New York is open throughout the year except on Thanksgiving (the fourth Thursday in November) and Christmas (25 December).

The ferry service from Battery Park and Liberty State Park remains closed for these two days.

To board the ferry, you need a Statue of Liberty ferry ticket.

All ferry tickets include the following:

• A Ferry ride to Liberty Island, Ellis Island, and back to the Mainland
• Access to the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island
• Access to the Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island
• Access to the National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island
• Audio Guide*

Since the Statue of Liberty is the biggest attraction, visitors also refer to these ferry tickets as the Statue of Liberty ticket. 

*You can pick up the audio guide tour at the Audio Guide booth on Liberty and Ellis Islands. The audio tour is available in 12 languages.

Tip:  Backpackers and tourists on a tight budget prefer to view the  Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island ferry . However, you won’t be able to land on Liberty Island and explore the massive monument.

The ‘Grounds only’ ticket is the most basic and popular Statue of Liberty ferry ticket and costs US$31 for all adults aged between 13 and 61 years.

Kids aged between four and 12 years get a discount of US$13 on the adult price and pay only US$18.

Senior citizens aged 62 and above also get a discount and pay only US$24.

Infants up to three years of age can join for free. See all Statue of Liberty tickets .

Statue of Liberty ferry tickets

Choose between different Statue of Liberty ferry tickets that you can purchase. 

Reserve ferry tickets

These are the most popular and widely available tickets, also known as ‘Grounds only’ tickets.

These tickets also have the least amount of security checks. 

The ‘Grounds only’ ferry ticket gives you access to Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty Museum.

But you can’t go up to the Pedestal or the Crown of the Statue of Liberty.

Ticket price

Adult ticket (13 to 61 years): US$31 Seniors ticket (62+ years): US$24 Child ticket (4 to 12 years): US$18

Infant ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Here are two other exciting tours – a visit to the  Statue of Liberty with a pre-ferry guided tour of Battery Park  and a  complete guided tour of the Statue of Liberty .

This 4-hour guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is one of the highest-rated tours on this circuit.

The ticket includes a pre-reserved entry to Ellis Island, accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide for a walking tour.

Get the official audio guide that will provide you with insightful information about the history and culture of Ellis Island.

The ticket also allows access to the Ellis Island museum, where you can explore a vast collection of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the rich heritage of the island.

Adult ticket (15+ years): US$69 Child ticket (2 to 14 years): US$64

Infant ticket (up to 1 year): Free

Statue Cruises provide Liberty & Ellis Islands Ferry service, and they own all the boats.

There are ten boats in the Statue Cruises’ fleet.

Depending on the schedule, you may board any one of these to get to the Statue of Liberty.

All Statue of Liberty ferry boats have snack bars selling healthy snacks and beverages.

The ferry ride is short, so you may not have the time to buy and consume it right there, but you can always take the food and drinks along with you on tour. 

These stands also sell Statue of Liberty merchandise. 

They accept all modes of payment – Cash, Visa, Master Card, and American Express.

Note: Evelyn Hill Inc. is located on Liberty Island and Ellis Island and offers various food and drink options.

Visitors who need assistance must contact the Ticket Office Manager as soon as they arrive at Battery Park or Liberty State Park.

Managers will ensure such visitors get ample assistance during the security screening and boarding of the Statue Cruises ferry.

All boats are wheelchair accessible. However, they don’t offer wheelchairs. 

Statue Cruises personnel can help visitors on wheelchairs get off at the Islands and return to the boat after their tour.

There are no handicapped-accessible restrooms on the boats. 

However, Ellis Island and Liberty Island bathrooms are wheelchair accessible.

Sources # Statueofliberty.org # Nps.gov # Cityexperiences.com # Freetoursbyfoot.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy.

More about Statue of Liberty

# Boarding Liberty ferry from New Jersey # Statue of Liberty facts # Statue of Liberty free tour # How long does Statue of Liberty take # Ellis Island Museum tickets # Last minute Statue of Liberty Crown tickets # Why Reserve tickets are better than Crown tickets

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This article was researched & written by

Priyanka Dwivedi

Since she doesn't want to leave anything to chance, she prefers sightseeing with the assistance of a tour guide or a city map. She also prefers to visit one place during one holiday, and leave nothing unexplored. During her vacations, she takes long walks, pondering the most profound philosophies of life. Favorite Cities: Prague, Lisbon, Vienna, Munich, Nice

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Statue of Liberty ticket scammers preying on tourists

BATTERY PARK, New York (WABC) -- A short ferry ride from Manhattan's Battery Park gets you to the Statue of Liberty, but what's happening in the park goes against most of what Lady Liberty stands for.

"Imagine if you're a New Yorker and somebody tried to tell you it costs 50 dollars to get into the park. Thankfully we know better, but unfortunately, a lot of folks don't," Matt Gill, captain at Statue City Cruises, explained.

Captain Gill has been working for Statue City Cruises since he was in high school.

He says he has never seen so many tourists who've been duped, paying double the price for tickets.

"Unfortunately, I have to say to them, 'We didn't sell you that ticket - that was from an illegal vendor inside the park,'" he explained.

It's so bad that Statue City Cruises put up scam alert signs outside its ticket booth.

We met two ladies from California who never made it there.

They were stopped at the park entrance and sold tickets for a different cruise that doesn't take them to the statue.

What they were told:

"I'm like I wanted to go in, see Ellis Island. Well, you can't do that. You have to get tickets in advance. And she's like they're 3 weeks. And I'm like really?" one of the women told Eyewitness News.

She was rightly surprised because that's not true.

The Statue City Cruises website showed plenty of available tickets on Friday.

We are told this is the worst it's ever been at Battery Park for a couple of reasons. One is ongoing construction that's essentially bottlenecking pedestrian traffic into the park.

"It's causing those vendors to try to prey on people in a much smaller location, where it was easier to get into the park prior," Gill said.

Now with only 2 entry points and a lot of confusion, the plea is for the city and the parks department to step in.

"If you've made it this far to Battery Park, we want to see you to get the rest of the way," Gill said.

The Parks Department released a statement saying,

Park Enforcement Officers patrol the area regularly and conduct joint details with NYPD to ensure that park rules are observed and enforced.

There are two ways to buy a ferry ticket out of Battery Park: either online at the Statue City Cruises website or in person at Castle Clinton at Battery Park . Unless you are booking a special tour, the general admission price is $25.

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• BATTERY PARK CITY
• NEW YORK CITY
• STATUE OF LIBERTY

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A brooklyn writer hid 12 keys across the us decades ago — now this treasure hunter plans to dig for legendary ‘the secret’ prize in nyc.

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David Hager, 58, is on the hunt.

Next Friday, he, his wife and two sons, ages 16 and 21, will travel from their home near Denver, Colorado, to NYC to search for booty hidden decades ago.

“Some place in the city of New York, there is a treasure,” Hager told The Post. “There is a ceramic casque, about the size of a volleyball. It has a ceramic key inside it.”

In the early 1980s, Brooklyn-born writer/editor Byron Preiss buried ceramic casques and keys in 12 cities in the US and, possibly, Canada. He then published elaborates clues — pictures paired with esoteric verses — to their whereabouts in his 1982 book “ The Secret: A Treasure Hunt .”

Each key can be exchanged with Preiss’s estate for a valuable gemstone.

Followers of “The Secret” widely believe that one of the clues featuring an image of a woman in a white gown floating above topaz gems directs readers to a treasure hidden in New York City.

Hager and others have noted that the woman’s face strongly resembles that of the Statue of Liberty.

But, Hager, a former science teacher who now owns a college-planning service , believes he has figured out the exact whereabouts and knows things other do not.

“Everybody thinks it is in Brooklyn because that is where the author grew up,” he said.

He noted that the third-from-last line in the clue is “In rhapsodic man’s soil.” That would seem to reference Gershwin, but Hager believes it to be a red herring.

“It’s in there to throw people off,” he said.

While he’s hesitant to reveal exactly where he thinks the treasure is, he will say that he believes it to be “south of Liberty Island” because one line in the clue reads, “Or gaze north / Toward the isle of B.'”

Liberty Island, Hager explained, used to be called Bedloe Island.

Only three of the twelve treasures Preiss supposedly hid have ever been found. The author died in a car accident on Long Island in 2005, taking the secret of his buried booty with him to the grave.

“His wife and two daughters remain involved in the treasure hunting. They’re the people you turn your key in to in exchange for the gem,” Hager said. But, “I don’t think they know where anything is.”

Hager is hardly the only one obsessed with unearthing the lost goods.

On online forums and social media, thousands speculate about the treasures’ whereabouts. In 2018, the Discovery Channel dedicated an episode of its TV show “Expedition Unknown” to the hunt.

That series inspired a Boston family to search for, and ultimately find, the casque in their city, and their journey was featured on the show in 2019.

“People are crazy about this because of the adventure and the idea of solving a 40-year-old mystery,” said Hager. “You start doing it and it’s easy to go down rabbit holes, trying to figure out the clues.”

The cable show also compelled him to start looking.

“I loved the idea of buried treasure being out there,” said Hager.

The Boston casque is the most recent one to be unearthed. Chicago teens found the first one in the city’s Grant Park in 1983. The second casque was uncovered in 2004 when a pair of savvy lawyers located it in a Cleveland garden.

For his Big Apple escapades, Hager isn’t packing lightly. He’s bringing tiny metal probe cameras that attach to coils that go deep into the ground and send images back to an iPhone, along with “really good” hand-shovels.

“I had shoulder surgery in February; so my sons will have to do some of the digging,” he said.

He’s obtained a metal-detecting permit from the city but has yet to hear back on the actual digging permits he applied for.

According to the NYC Parks website, the fine for unlawful excavation is “up to $1,500 .”

Furthermore, a press officer from NYC Parks warned of issues involving “underlying infrastructure networks — such as gas lines, sewer lines, etc.”

But, most likely, Hager won’t be deterred.

“Between you and me, we will probably dig [whether or not we get them],” he told The Post. “If I get a fine I will live with it.”

His treasure-hunting obsession coincided with his father passing away from heart failure in 2020.

His dad, a former college professor of international studies, loved taking the family on annual trips to New York, from their home in Virginia Beach.

“This whole thing is a little bit dedicated to him,” he said.

It’s also for his sons.

“The challenge of proving myself right is important,” he said. “My 16-year-old said, ‘Dad, I totally believe you, 100%, but I want to see it come out of the ground.’ I plan on making that happen.”

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The 6 Best Statue of Liberty Cruises + Tips From a Local

T he best view of New York might not be in the city itself, but from the harbor looking back at the skyline. Sightseeing cruises are a wonderful reminder that Manhattan is, in fact, an island, and getting out on the water offers a breezy cruise in addition to a fresh vantage point.

With a cold drink in hand, you'll see not just the Statue of Liberty , but also other top city landmarks from the Brooklyn Bridge to One World Trade Center. These boat tours allow visitors to zoom out and get a new perspective, then return to Manhattan refreshed by the wind, water, light and sheer size of the skyline.

There are different boat experiences to match every type of traveler, and here are some of the best.

Best Overall: Statue City Cruises

Button Enhancement : Button - Statue City Cruises

Price: From $24.50

Duration: At your own pace, with ferries departing every 25 to 30 minutes

Standout perk: Admission to the grounds of Liberty Island and Ellis Island are included in this sightseeing cruise and ferry service to Lady Liberty.

The best overall value and experience belongs to Statue City Cruises, which combines the scenery of a sightseeing cruise with the in-depth experience of an attraction tour. Priority entry included with the ticket saves time at the departure point at The Battery . On board the round-trip ferry service, visitors will experience all the sweeping views of a New York Harbor cruise, including skyscrapers of the Financial District and beyond.

The first stop is Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty. Audio tours in a dozen languages are available so you can go at your own pace. Those interested can continue via boat service to Ellis Island, home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which contains several fascinating exhibits and the chance to look up your ancestors. Explore at your leisure, then utilize the ferry service back to lower Manhattan.

Local tip: Choose a time as early as possible in the morning for this experience. Ferry service and crowds at Lady Liberty grow throughout the day and swell on weekends; a weekday morning is the best choice.

Best for Adults: Manhattan by Sail's Day Sail – Shearwater

Button Enhancement : Button - Manhattan by Sail's Day Sail – Shearwater

Price: From $60 for adults

Duration: 90 minutes

Standout perk: This cruise provides a true sailing experience on a classic schooner.

Don't be surprised to bump into New Yorkers on the Shearwater, a schooner with tall sails that entices even jaded Manhattanites to go for a ride. Climb aboard this "Gatsby"-era boat, with capacity for 48 people, from the dock at North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place and set out on a sail down the Hudson River and into the New York Harbor. Trade city crowds for the open water with this cruise, complete with a cash bar, that offers up-close views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline.

This experience, conveniently available at different times throughout the day, is a match for adults seeking a more sophisticated sail – think: hip vibe, ample bar, music and an emphasis on service. Several upgrades are available, including sails that offer a wine tasting or live jazz on board. Every sailing offers the chance to snap your photograph with Lady Liberty herself, though you won't be disembarking at Liberty Island.

Local tip: Adults seeking a romantic cruise may want to opt for the Sunset Sail on the Shearwater Classic Schooner.

Best for Families: Circle Line's Liberty Super Express Downtown

Button Enhancement : Button - Circle Line's Liberty Super Express Downtown

Price: From $29

Duration: 50 minutes

Standout perk: Maximize time with this express cruise, featuring convenient, regular departures.

Families with limited time (or kids with limited attention spans) may appreciate a quick express cruise option. This fast and friendly tour, at just 50 minutes, is a speedy way to get the experience of a boat cruise without it taking a bite out of your day. Hop aboard a boat with Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – the sister company to New York Water Taxi – and choose between either the open air of the top deck or the temperature-controlled cabin. On a sunny day, the outdoor deck with its sea breeze is the place to be as the boat sails past the Statue of Liberty.

Get unobstructed views of Lady Liberty and snap some family photographs before returning to Pier 16 in the South Street Seaport. Quick, efficient and featuring live narration from a guide, this sightseeing ride is excellent value packed into a short time span.

Local tip: Kids interested in ships may want to visit the South Street Seaport Museum, near the cruise departure point, to see model ships and more.

Read: The Top NYC Dinner Cruises

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Best Budget: Staten Island Ferry

Price: Free

Duration: 25 minutes each way

Standout perk: Get out on the water to see the Statue of Liberty without paying a cent.

The best budget sightseeing cruise isn't a cruise at all, but rather a free mode of local transportation: the Staten Island Ferry. While many of even the most basic harbor cruises start at about $20, this ferry offers a completely free, ticketless cruise in the New York Harbor, bypassing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island along the way. With service every 30 minutes and no reservations or tickets required, the ferry is not only a steal price-wise, but also a convenient option for travelers who don't want to be tied down to a ticketed departure time.

Stand out on deck and admire views of Lady Liberty during this journey that crosses about 5 miles from Whitehall Street at the tip of lower Manhattan to St. George on Staten Island. The only drawback is that you must depart the ferry in Staten Island and reboard for the trip back to Manhattan – a small "price" to pay for a free boat ride in NYC.

Local tip: Visitors will want to avoid rush hour; these commuter boats can be crowded. Choose a time outside commuting rush hour to maximize the peaceful experience.

Best Luxury: Classic Harbor Line's Statue and Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Button Enhancement : Button - Classic Harbor Line's Statue and Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Price: From $64 for adults

Duration: 1.5 hours

Standout perk: This intimate cruise on a 1920s-inspired yacht comes with one complimentary drink included.

Board a yacht at Pier 62 in Chelsea for a polished cruise including views of the New York Harbor's top landmark: the Statue of Liberty. Set sail in style aboard a yacht inspired by the roaring '20s, complete with a solarium and open-air decks as well as a climate-controlled cabin. Cruise down the west side of Manhattan and check out views of The Battery, the Financial District, Governor's Island and more.

Of all the available New York City harbor cruises, guests often praise this one for the quality of the staff running the Classic Harbor Line cruises. With an emphasis on service, an intimate group with a maximum of 80 passengers and an onboard stocked bar, this cruise offers a sophisticated option for seeing Lady Liberty.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 62, which is home to a riverfront carousel for kids and a pretty stretch of Hudson River Park. Stop into Chelsea Market for some picnic supplies and relax in the park before your cruise.

Best Sunset Cruise: Circle Line's Harbor Lights

Button Enhancement : Button - Circle Line's Harbor Lights

Price: From $45

Duration: 2 hours

Standout perk: Watch the skyscrapers of the Manhattan skyline flicker to life.

Circle Line offers a variety of cruises with different itineraries. One of the most popular is the Harbor Lights tour, a cruise departing from Midtown Manhattan that includes golden sunset views and a photo stop at the Statue of Liberty. See NYC landmarks like Hudson Yards, Chelsea Piers and One World Trade Center before cruising out into the New York Harbor. You'll get to learn about New York from onboard narration as the itinerary continues past Liberty Island and beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.

While the sun sets and the Manhattan skyscrapers flash to life, relax on the outdoor deck space and visit the onboard bar to purchase beer, wine, cocktails and light snacks. A temperature-controlled cabin is available for hot days. Wi-Fi is free on board and allows for easy posting of sunset photos.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 83 in Midtown Manhattan. Arrive early to visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum at neighboring Pier 86.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jessica Colley Clarke is a New York-based freelance writer. She loves to take visiting family and friends out on the water in the New York Harbor for a fresh perspective on the Manhattan skyline and beyond. Colley Clarke used her expertise to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Statue of Liberty Tours
• The Top Observation Decks in New York City
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Alerts in effect, liberty enlightening the world.

"The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World" was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States and is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886.  It was designated as a National Monument in 1924.  Employees of the National Park Service have been caring for the colossal copper statue since 1933.

The location of the security screening facility and ferry service will move to a new temporary location on February 8, 2024.

Check out these top ranger tips for a fun, safe, and unforgettable trip!

Reservations are required.

Experience the incredible views from the balcony at the top of the pedestal. Reservations required.

Join us for an immersive experience through the museum on Liberty Island.

Learn about projects underway that you will see and hear while you are visiting.

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Contact info, mailing address:.

Receiving Office 1 Ellis Island Jersey City, NJ 07305

212 363-3200

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