The 151-foot tall Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of Americana in existence today. Emblematic of the pursuit of freedom and a fair and just democratic government, this awe-inspiring gift from the French stands proudly on Liberty Island for all to admire. Learn how you can visit the Statue of Liberty up close and personal with CityPASS® tickets!
Where is the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island, a small landmass in New York Harbor and is only accessible via a ferry operated by Statue Cruises. You can board the ferry to the Statue of Liberty from New Jersey or New York City. The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.
How do I get to the Statue of Liberty?
If you’re taking the Statue of Liberty ferry from New York City, you’ll board it in Battery Park. Battery Park is a historic area in and of itself; it once hosted America’s first immigration station from 1855-1890 and is home to a castle (still standing today) built in expectation of the War of 1812, so you may want to plan to spend a little time exploring the grounds before or after your ferry trip.
Those leaving from New Jersey will board the Statue of Liberty ferry from Liberty State Park, which is accessible via public transportation from Newark Penn Station, Hoboken, and Journal Square. It is also accessible by car.
While the Staten Island Ferry passes by the statue, it does not actually stop there, so if you’re keen to get an up-close-and-personal experience your best bet is to stick with Statue Cruises.
Unfortunately, for those looking for a literal free ride, the ferry to the Statue of Liberty is not free. However, if you’re planning on gettin’ your touristy groove on, take note that a New York CityPASS® ticket gives you deep discounts on Statue Cruises tickets and all the top attractions in New York City, including the Empire State Building, Guggenheim Museum, 9/11 Memorial and Museum, and more.
Statue of Liberty Ferry Hours
The ferry schedule is available on Statue Cruise’s website.
Statue of Liberty and Crown Tickets
You have several options for buying tickets to see the Statue of Liberty. The first option includes a ferry ride to and from Liberty Island and Ellis Islands, audio guides, and admission to Ellis island Immigration Museum. The second option adds access to the pedestal. The third option adds access to the crown.
Only 365 crown tickets are available each day, and they sell out well in advance, so if that’s your preference, make you purchase well ahead of time. Both pedestal and crown tickets must be purchase directly from Statue Cruises, either on their website at statuecruises.com or by calling 201-604-2800.
If you use CityPASS® tickets, you’ll save on the ferry ride, but CityPASS® tickets include just the first option, and do not include access to the pedestal or crown. If you choose to buy a pedestal or crown ticket directly from Statue Cruises, you’ll still get a great value with CityPASS®, because you can use the CityPASS® ticket for a Circleline Sightseeing Cruise, where you’ll get a great view of many famous NYC landmarks from a unique vantage point on the water.
Seeing the Statue of Liberty in person is a thrilling experience that can’t be replicated through pictures and videos. Her majesty and awe-inspiring presence are amplified by Emma Lazarus’ famed sonnet, "The New Colossus," which is visible on a plaque affixed to the pedestal. She is an enduring and impressive symbol of all that America stands for: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
History of the Statue of Liberty
France and the United States first embarked upon their joint venture in the late 19th century. While the French erected the statue, Americans built the platform upon which it stands to this day. The French wanted to celebrate America’s success in building a remarkable democracy as well as commemorate the longstanding relationship between the two rapidly-transforming countries. Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi, a notable sculptor of the time, was commissioned to design a piece that was intended to celebrate the centennial of America’s momentous break from the British Empire in 1776.
This timeline was a bit ambitious; the funds required to build the statue were not raised until 1875, and the statue itself was completed 10 years later and shipped to America. Finally, in 1886, President Grover Cleveland stood in front of a crowd of thousands to officially dedicate the brand new Statue of Liberty. She shone brighter than a new penny that day, a striking contrast to her current mint green hue. (After being exposed to the elements for several years, the copper oxidized through a process known as verdigris. By the early 20th century the oxidation had turned her skin the shade of green with which we are all familiar today.)
For the 12 million immigrants who passed through Ellis Island during its 60-year run as a federal immigration center, the Statue of Liberty served as a promising symbol of a new life for them and their families. Today, visitors can learn all about their hopes, dreams, trials, and tribulations in the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.
Nearby Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in New York City, we recommend finding lodging near New York City's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comVisit the Statue of Liberty & More Attractions for Less With CityPASS® Tickets
See Lady Liberty and all of the New York attractions on your list for less with CityPASS® tickets. No matter which NYC destinations you want to hit, CityPASS® tickets offer deep discounts for you and your family!