Helpful information for planning your visit to see Lady Liberty
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the French people to the United States, symbolizing the international friendship forged during the American Revolution. Designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, with the pedestal by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, it was dedicated on October 28, 1886, ten years late for the Centennial celebration. Since then, it has become an emblem of freedom and democracy.
Facts and History
When shipped from France to New York, the Statue arrived in 350 pieces. It took four months to assemble, completing the installation on October 28, 1886. Notably, the observation deck reopened to the public on August 3, 2004, for the first time since the events of September 11, 2001. Additionally, on July 4, 2009, the crown reopened to enthusiastic visitors willing to ascend the 354 steps. Due to Hurricane Sandy, further upgrades delayed access to the interior until recently. Now, tickets are available for those wishing to climb to the crown.
Directions
The Statue of Liberty resides on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, accessible via a ferry from Battery Park City or New Jersey.
The closest subways include the 4/5 lines to Bowling Green, the N/R to Whitehall Street, and the 1 train to South Ferry (noting that you must be in the first 5 cars to exit at South Ferry). To acquire tickets, follow the signs to Castle Clinton.
What to Expect When You Visit
Upon arrival, purchasing a ticket is essential, ideally in advance. Security procedures are stringent for everyone boarding the ferry to Liberty Island. Expect x-ray inspections of baggage and metal detector screenings.
Ferries departing from Battery Park first stop at Liberty Island, requiring all passengers to disembark. The ferry then continues its route to Ellis Island, with travel times between stops estimated at 10 minutes. Visitors accessing the Statue will go through security once more.
Ticket Information
While admission to Liberty State Park is free, ferry tickets are necessary to reach the Statue of Liberty. Tickets for the ferry can be purchased online, via phone, or in-person at departure points.
Access to the pedestal and the Statue of Liberty Museum necessitates a special ticket, which does not incur additional costs, while climbing to the crown requires an extra fee. Adults may also add a tour of the Ellis Hospital, although children are not permitted.
Seeing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in One Day
The ferry to Liberty Island additionally stops at Ellis Island, making it feasible to see both sites in one day, though this can take most of your day. Arrive early and allocate around 5 to 6 hours for exploration.
Visiting With Kids
Children under four years old can board the ferry without charge, but all minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult of at least 25 years. While strollers are not allowed inside the Statue, they can be used on the ferry and around Liberty Island, which offers ample space for children to explore.
To climb to the crown, children must meet height and age requirements (at least 4 feet tall and 4 years old).
Other Ways to See the Statue of Liberty
If you prefer to view the Statue of Liberty without exploring Liberty Island further, there are several fantastic vantage points:
- Battery Park or the Brooklyn Promenade for distant views
- New York City Sightseeing Cruises offer great photo opportunities
- Staten Island Ferry is a free option providing views of the harbor and the Statue
- Enjoy views from the outdoor café at Red Hook Fairway in Brooklyn
