The Statue of Liberty stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, reached by ferry from Manhattan or New Jersey. A gift from France dedicated in 1886, it became a symbol of freedom and a landmark that generations of immigrants saw on their way to Ellis Island. Walk the island grounds to view the statue’s raised torch, seven-point crown and robe details, or book access to the pedestal or crown. The island also gives you views across the harbor; a visit to nearby Ellis Island adds the history of immigration.
A gift from France
The Statue of Liberty was presented to the United States by France and dedicated in 1886. Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the copper figure stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Its seven-point crown represents the seven seas and continents, while the tablet bears the date of American independence in Roman numerals. Gustave Eiffel engineered the statue’s iron framework.
The monument is officially called Liberty Enlightening the World. Its raised torch and position in the harbor made it a familiar sight for people arriving by ship. For many immigrants entering through nearby Ellis Island, seeing the statue was part of their arrival in the United States.
What to see on Liberty Island
The island grounds let you look closely at the statue’s scale and workmanship, including the folds of its robe and the torch held overhead. The changing light can shift the statue’s appearance through the day, and sunset brings a particularly striking view across the harbor.
Ferry tickets include access to Liberty Island and its grounds. Separate ticket options provide access to the pedestal, where the statue’s museum is located, or to the crown. Crown access requires advance planning and is limited. From the island, you can also look back toward Manhattan and the surrounding harbor.
Add Ellis Island to the trip
The ferry journey can include a stop at Ellis Island, where the National Immigration Museum explores the experiences of people who arrived in the United States through the island. Ellis Island served as a major immigration station from 1892 to 1924. Its American Family Immigration History Center holds passenger arrival records and ship photographs, which can be useful if you are researching family history.
Plan for both islands if immigration history is a main reason for your visit. The Statue of Liberty is the most visible landmark, but Ellis Island gives the harbor journey a closer connection to the people who passed through it.
Getting there and planning access
Authorized ferries to Liberty Island depart from Battery Park in Manhattan and Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The ferry line can become long, so arriving early may help you avoid a lengthy wait. For a photo that shows the statue’s size against the skyline, stay out on deck as the boat approaches the island.
Choose your ticket based on how much access you want. A standard ferry ticket covers the island grounds; pedestal and crown access require separate tickets. If you visit in the colder months, bring warm clothing for time outdoors. January and February are suggested for a quieter visit, while sunset is a good choice for the changing harbor light.
Häufige Fragen
How do you get to the Statue of Liberty?
Take a ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey to Liberty Island.
Does a ferry ticket include access to the statue?
A standard ferry ticket includes access to Liberty Island and the grounds around the statue. Pedestal and crown access require separate tickets.
Can you visit Ellis Island on the same trip?
Yes. The ferry trip can include Ellis Island, where the National Immigration Museum and American Family Immigration History Center are located.
When is a quieter time to visit?
January and February are suggested for a quieter visit. Dress warmly for time outdoors.
