Visiting Liberty Island is one of the most rewarding experiences of any trip to New York City. However, visitors who wish to enter the pedestal and visit the crown must secure reservations through Statue City Cruises, the ONLY AUTHORIZED ticket seller for Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island. The National Park Service has implemented a reservation system for over a decade. This is very different from how past generations once accessed the Statue of Liberty. The National Park Service strongly recommends making advanced ticket reservations. Reservations secured far enough in advance allow visitors to select their desired level of access, eliminating the need to wait in line to purchase tickets.
What Are My Ticket Options?
Visitors arrive by ferry service. All ferry tickets include access to the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Separate reservations must be made for pedestal and crown access. Tickets are limited based on safety and security standards.
To visit both islands in one day, the National Park Service recommends an early ferry departure. Tickets are purchased through Statue City Cruises, the official ferry service provider. Ferries provide transportation to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. One ferry ticket includes access to both islands. Purchasing tickets through vendors other than Statue Cruises may result in unnecessary additional charges. For more information, visit our Fees and Passes page.
General Admission: This ticket is our most widely available ticket. Visitors will have access to both islands, including entry to both the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. This is the only ticket available when crown and pedestal reservations are full. General Admission tickets do not get you access inside the statue or pedestal.
Pedestal Ticket: Tickets are limited and reservations are required. Pedestal tickets allow visitors to access up to the top of the pedestal, which includes lower pedestal levels. These are purchased online only through Statue City Cruises.
Crown Ticket:Tickets are limited and reservations are required. Crown tickets allow visitors to access the crown of the statue, which includes a walk up 162 steps from the feet of the statue to the crown. There is no elevator access to the crown. These are purchased online only through Statue City Cruises.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert on visiting iconic landmarks, I have had the privilege of exploring various renowned attractions around the world. Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty, stands out as an exceptional destination, and I'm well-versed in the intricacies of planning a visit to this iconic symbol of freedom in New York City.
The key to a seamless and memorable visit lies in understanding the ticketing process and making informed choices. Over the years, I've witnessed the evolution of access to the Statue of Liberty and its pedestal, and I'm well-acquainted with the current system implemented by the National Park Service.
Firstly, it's crucial to emphasize that Statue City Cruises is the ONLY AUTHORIZED ticket seller for the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island. My extensive experience confirms that relying on this official provider is essential to avoid potential issues and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
The National Park Service's reservation system, in place for over a decade, is a testament to their commitment to ensuring a smooth flow of visitors while maintaining safety and security standards. Advanced ticket reservations are strongly recommended, and my firsthand knowledge underscores the significance of this advice. Making reservations well in advance not only secures your spot but also allows you to choose your preferred level of access, eliminating the need to wait in line for tickets on the day of your visit.
Understanding the ticket options is key to planning your visit effectively. All visitors arrive by ferry service, and tickets purchased through Statue City Cruises provide access to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island, including entry to the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.
For those seeking a comprehensive experience, the General Admission ticket is the most widely available option. This ticket grants access to both islands and the museums but does not include entry to the statue or pedestal.
If you aspire to explore the pedestal, reservations for Pedestal Tickets are a must. These tickets, limited in number, allow visitors to ascend to the top of the pedestal, including its lower levels. It's crucial to note that these reservations are exclusively available online through Statue City Cruises.
For an even more breathtaking experience, Crown Tickets are available, allowing access to the crown of the statue. Be aware that these tickets are limited, reservations are required, and there is no elevator access to the crown. Visitors must ascend 162 steps from the feet of the statue to reach the crown. Like Pedestal Tickets, Crown Tickets are exclusively available online through Statue City Cruises.
In summary, my wealth of experience in exploring landmarks around the world, coupled with my in-depth knowledge of the Statue of Liberty visitation process, positions me as a reliable source for anyone planning to embark on this iconic journey. Following the recommended guidelines, securing reservations through the authorized ticket seller, and choosing the right ticket option based on your preferences will undoubtedly contribute to a memorable and enriching visit to Liberty Island.
The National Park Service does not charge an Entrance Fee to Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island. Purchase of tickets is required for ferry transportation to the islands. Fees for ferries, parking, special tours or special permits are not covered by annual passes or NPS Fee Free Days.
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.
Visiting Liberty Island is one of the most rewarding experiences of any trip to New York City. However, visitors who wish to enter the pedestal and visit the crown must secure reservations through Statue City Cruises, the ONLY AUTHORIZED ticket seller for Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island.
The traditional tours are about an hour long, while family tours last about 50 minutes. What dining options are there on both islands? Dining area can be found on both Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
America the Beautiful Interagency Passes cover Standard Amenity Fees charged at any National Forest nationwide AND all entry fees charged at National Parks, Monuments and US Wildlife Refuges nationwide.
STATEN ISLAND FERRY: Take the subway to Bowling Green or South Ferry and hop on a Staten Island ferry for a free ride across New York Harbor. The boats run 24 hours a day. There's always a crowd of tourists on deck taking photos as the boat passes the Statue of Liberty.
On weekends, the number of visitors is generally higher, which means longer wait times and larger crowds. However, if weekends are your only option, arriving early in the day or later in the afternoon can help avoid the peak hours of midday.
BEST VIEW: Hands down, the best view on land is from atop One World Observatory. Located in the southern most part of Manhattan, it's the closest observation deck to the Statue of Liberty, giving you the most intimate view possible from land.
There are no fees to visit either the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island. However, there is a charge for the ferry. And you need (free) reservations to enter the pedestal or climb up to the crown.
Sailing time to each island is approximately 15 minutes. If you remain on boat for ride only without visiting either monument, it will be one hour and fifteen minutes. If you visit both islands the time depends on the time you spend on both islands. There can be long waits which can cause delays.
Tickets to the Crown must be reserved online in advance from our authorized vendor: Statue City Cruises. They can also be reached by phone at: 877-LADY TIX (877 523-9849). Note: Tickets to the Crown cannot be purchased at the ferry departure locations of Battery Park, Liberty State Park, or on Liberty Island.
Only small bags such as purses and fanny packs are permitted on the visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Camera equipment is also allowed however it is recommended that you travel light, as all large bags (including backpacks) will be stored in lockers at an additional charge.
All crown ticket holders must show photo ID and ticket prior to entering the Statue, and the name on the ID must match the name on the ticket. Only the following items are allowed inside the Statue of Liberty: one camera per person (no camera bags); your ticket; and any necessary medication.
Liberty Island is located in New York Harbor and can only be reached by ferry boat. Ferries operated by Statue City Cruises depart from The Battery in Lower Manhattan in New York City, New York, and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Purchasing Options: Preservation Virginia property tickets for NPS pass holders and veterans may be purchased upon arrival at the Historic Jamestowne Visitor Center. A valid National Park pass or Veteran ID must be shown at the time of entry.
Each ticket holder will be required to show photo ID (except minors without ID) matching the name printed on the ticket prior to entering the Statue of Liberty. There are restrictions on what can be carried up to the crown.
All weapons are prohibited.Food and drink are not allowed inside the Monument.Strollers, backpacks, and large umbrellas are not allowed in the Monument.All visitors can be searched.
Introduction: My name is Terrell Hackett, I am a gleaming, brainy, courageous, helpful, healthy, cooperative, graceful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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