Here’s a full breakdown for Statue of Liberty Tours including tickets, ferry info, crown access, free options, and more:
π½ Statue of Liberty Tours β Visitor Guide
ποΈ Tickets & Prices
Official access is through Statue City Cruises, the authorized ferry operator. There are three ticket types:
- General Admission
β Ferry to Liberty Island & Ellis Island
β Statue of Liberty Grounds Access
β Ellis Island Immigration Museum
π΅ Price:- Adults: ~$24
- Seniors (62+): ~$18
- Children (4β12): ~$12
- Under 4: Free
- Pedestal Access Ticket
β Everything in General Admission
β Access to the statueβs pedestal museum & balcony
π‘ Book early β limited availability! - Crown Access Ticket (Must reserve in advance!)
β Everything above
β Access to climb up inside the crown
β οΈ Must be able to climb 162 stairs
πͺͺ ID required
ποΈ Not available on the day-of β book online early!
β΄οΈ Ferry Schedule & Departure Locations
Operated by Statue City Cruises from two locations:
- Battery Park (Manhattan, NYC)
- Liberty State Park (Jersey City, NJ)
Ferries depart daily, typically from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, depending on the season.
β³ Ferries run every 25β30 minutes.
Your ticket includes round-trip ferry service, plus audio guides for both islands.
π Are There Free Tours?
- ποΈ You can view the Statue of Liberty for free from the Staten Island Ferry, but you canβt access Liberty Island or go inside the statue.
- β οΈ There are no free entry options to go on the island or inside the statue. Be cautious of street vendors claiming otherwise.
πΈ 360-Degree Views
Want the best views?
- πΌ Pedestal platform: Sweeping views of NYC & the harbor
- π Crown: Narrow spiral staircase, but epic views through small windows
- πLiberty Island Grounds: Great for wide-angle shots with the skyline behind
Bonus: Ellis Island has rooftop views too!
π€ Boat Tickets & Booking Tips
- π« Book only through the official site: statuecitycruises.com
- β° Arrive 30β45 minutes early for security checks
- π Avoid large bags β airport-style screening is required
- βοΈ Best time to go: Morning (fewer crowds, cooler temps)
Want help booking or a customized itinerary? I can help with that too!
Sure! Here’s a clear and complete Statue of Liberty Tours β FAQ to answer all your common questions:
π½ Statue of Liberty Tours β Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
π‘ 1. Where do I buy tickets for the Statue of Liberty?
The only official provider is Statue City Cruises.
Avoid third-party vendors near Battery Parkβthey may sell overpriced or fake tickets.
β΄οΈ 2. Where do the ferries depart from?
Ferries to Liberty Island and Ellis Island leave from:
- Battery Park, Manhattan, NYC
- Liberty State Park, Jersey City, NJ
π 3. What are the ferry hours/schedule?
- First ferry: around 8:30 AM
- Last ferry to Liberty Island: around 3:30β4:00 PM
- Ferries run every 20β30 minutes
- Operating daily, year-round (except Christmas)
π 4. How long does the full tour take?
Plan for 4β6 hours if visiting both Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
ποΈ 5. Whatβs included in a standard ticket?
- Round-trip ferry to Liberty Island & Ellis Island
- Access to Statue of Liberty grounds
- Ellis Island Immigration Museum
- Free audio guides
π§± 6. Whatβs pedestal access?
- Lets you go inside the base of the Statue
- Includes the pedestal museum & balcony views
- Requires advance booking β limited availability!
π 7. Can I go inside the crown?
Yes, with a Crown Ticket (limited & must be booked weeks/months ahead).
- Must climb 162 stairs
- ID required
- Not recommended for people with health conditions or claustrophobia
π 8. Is there a free way to see the Statue of Liberty?
Yes!
- Staten Island Ferry is free and offers great views from the water.
- BUT it does not stop at Liberty Island or allow entry to the statue.
πΈ 9. Are there good views from the islands?
Yes!
- Liberty Island: panoramic NYC skyline views
- Pedestal: 360-degree views from the balcony
- Crown: Tiny windows with cool overhead views
- Ellis Island: Historic buildings + harbor views
π« 10. Can I bring bags, food, or drinks?
- Small bags allowed
- No large backpacks or luggage
- Security screening is like airport checks
- Food allowed only in picnic areas
- Water is OK β but no alcohol
πΎ 11. Can I bring my pet?
Only service animals are allowed on the islands and ferry.
βοΈ 12. When is the best time to visit?
- Spring & Fall = good weather + manageable crowds
- Early morning = fewer lines
- Summer = busy, hot, and lots of tourists
π 13. Are guided tours available?
Yes! You can book:
- Self-guided audio tours (included in ticket)
- Private or group tours via official site or trusted partners
Need help picking the best ticket for your trip or want itinerary tips? I got you!