The Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island immigration museum sit in New York Harbor, reached by one ferry from Battery Park — together they tell the American immigration story.
What to see at Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
- Only the official Statue City Cruises ferry lands on the islands — book ahead.
- Ellis Island’s museum is the emotional heart — leave time for it.
- Crown access books out weeks ahead; pedestal is easier.
- Free view from the Staten Island Ferry if you skip landing.
Visiting tips
Just want the photo? The free Staten Island Ferry passes close. To visit, book Statue City Cruises early and prioritise Ellis Island.
How long: Half a day · Best time: First ferry of the day.
How to get there & what’s nearby
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island is easy to reach on New York City’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Central Park & the Met and Empire State Building. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our New York City travel guide.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island in pictures
Plan your visit
- Opening hours
- Open daily via ferry from The Battery (Manhattan) and Liberty State Park (New Jersey); first departures mid-morning, last mid-to-late afternoon (times vary by season) — check the schedule.
- Tickets
- The National Monument is free, but a Statue City Cruises ferry ticket is required: adult $26 (Reserve — ferry, both islands and audio guide). Pedestal or Crown access is a small upgrade, and the Crown sells out months ahead. Statue City Cruises is the only authorised operator.
- Booking & getting in
- Book online in advance and beware the street vendors near The Battery — the only authorised on-site office is inside Castle Clinton. Allow a half-day and arrive early for the airport-style security and both islands.
- How long
- Half a day for both islands
- Best time
- The first ferry of the day, to beat the crowds and the security lines.
Verified 2026-09-08 against the official site — prices and hours change, so confirm before you go.
See the full New York City travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.
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