The Statue of Liberty is one of the symbols of the United States. It stands as an enduring symbol of freedom and a testament to the spirit of America. Those planning a visit to this iconic monument should definitely do some research on the different tours and experiences that are offered, to purchase proper tickets. Understanding the different Statue of Liberty ticket options is crucial to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. Luckily, we have put together this guide for you to use to learn about the different options and discover the easiest way you can get Statue of Liberty tickets and unlock the magic of Lady Liberty.
Statue of Liberty Tickets and Tours
Before embarking on your journey to the Statue of Liberty, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various ticket options available. There are different tours with different access levels, so doing some research is key when going through the planning process. The ticket and tour options include:
General Admission
: A General Admission ticket provides access to the grounds of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.
Crown Reserve: For a more intimate experience, a Crown Reserve ticket includes access to the Crown and Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Limited tickets are available, as these allow visitors to climb to the crown of the Statue of Liberty, offering panoramic views of New York Harbor and beyond.
Pedestal Reserve: Pedestal Reserve tickets include access to the Fort Wood section of the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.
Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour: The Hard Hat Tour Ticket offers a 90-minute guided tour of the unrestored Ellis Island Immigrant Hospital Complex. Tickets also offer self-guided Audio Tour headsets as you tour around both Ellis Island and Liberty Island.
The Journey Begins on a Statue Cruises Ferry
Upon arriving at Battery Park or Liberty State Park, the starting points for ferry rides to the Statue of Liberty, visitors must pass through security screening. For this reason, it is recommended that guests arrive early to allow ample time to go through security, and for boarding. Once you board, you’ll enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Liberty Island, and on the way enjoy breathtaking views of the New York City skyline from a whole new perspective – the water!
Statue City Cruises is honored to be recognized as “Best Boat Tours” by Newsweek Magazine’s expert panelists and contributors and voted on by readers as the best of the best.
Explore Everything Liberty Island has to Offer
Liberty Island has loads to explore. Not only is it the home to the iconic Lady Liberty, but there are several other attractions and activities to experience as well. Take a visit to the Statue of Liberty Museum, and learn about the history of this world-famous landmark. Museum exhibits include artifacts, interactive displays, and captivating multimedia presentations.
The island also offers outdoor spaces that can be utilized for picnics, photo opportunities of the statue as well as the Manhattan skyline, and places to sit to relax and reflect.
The Crown and Pedestal Experiences
For those with Crown Reserve or Pedestal Reserve tickets, the experience goes beyond the standard visit to Liberty Island. Here’s what to expect:
Crown Reserve: Those who purchase the Crown Reserve tickets will be able to climb the interior of the Statue all the way up to, you guessed it, the crown! This is definitely a memorable adventure. The narrow spiral staircase leads to breathtaking views of New York Harbor and the city’s skyscrapers. Due to the limited number of tickets available, this experience offers exclusivity and a unique perspective, so book fast as tickets are limited.
Pedestal Reserve: Pedestal Reserve tickets include access to the Fort Wood section of the pedestal. The pedestal offers closer proximity to the statue’s details and a different vantage point for capturing memorable photos.
Continue Your Journey to Ellis Island
Typically, Statue of Liberty tickets also include access to Ellis Island, which from 1892 to 1954, served as the historic gateway for 12 million immigrants who passed through looking for an opportunity for a better life in the United States. Start exploring Ellis Island by visiting the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, where you will immerse yourself in stories of immigrants who came through those same hallways. Then, there’s the American Immigrant Wall of Honor, which lists the names of immigrants as a tribute to those who helped shape our nation and define it as the ultimate melting pot. Maybe you had some ancestors or loved ones who have their names on the wall! Don’t forget to book your ticket to the Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour, where you’ll get to see “the other side of Ellis Island”. Reservation options include a New York departure or a New Jersey departure.
Booking Your Statue of Liberty Tickets is Simple and Easy
As with most tourist attractions, securing your Statue of Liberty tickets in advance is crucial if you’re trying to plan an itinerary. Especially during peak tourist seasons. Luckily, tickets can be purchased online through Statue City Cruises, an Authorized Concessionaire for Statue of Liberty ferry rides and tours. Here are your ticket and tour options, all featuring departures from New York’s Battery Park or New Jersey’s Liberty State Park:
Crown Reserve – New Jersey or New York
Pedestal Reserve – New Jersey or New York
General Admission – New Jersey or New York
Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour – New Jersey or New York
FAQs
Are backpacks and food permitted inside the Statue of Liberty?
No. Before accessing the Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty National Monument, all visitors with backpacks, food, and drinks must place these items in lockers. Lockers are located by the entrance of the Statue of Liberty National Monument.
Is Liberty Island Wheelchair Accessible?
The grounds on Liberty Island are wheelchair accessible. For those with reservations to enter the monument, wheelchair access is provided to the museum and the exterior of Fort Wood. A wheelchair-accessible lift is available from where the main pedestal elevator stops to the top of the pedestal. The interior of the top of the pedestal, which offers views of the Statue’s inner skeletal structure, is wheelchair accessible. However, the outdoor observation deck and balcony are not wheelchair accessible. An elevator is operational on Ellis Island the first floor of the museum to the Statue of Liberty Pedestal.
What if I have a Pedestal Ticket?
You can print your ticket at home and when you arrive proceed to the screening facility at either departure location.
Do I need a reservation to visit the park?
Purchasing Tickets prior to your arrival is recommended, but we also have tickets available for same-day sales. A General Admission Ticket is purchased for specific entry time into security facility. We recommend guests arrive 30 minutes prior to the reserve time. By making advanced reservations, you can avoid waiting in unnecessary lines.If you want to enter the Statue of Liberty National Monument a Pedestal Reserve ticket is required.
What other programs are available at Liberty Island?
There are many scenic views for photos and guided tour opportunities. Liberty Island Ranger Tours are free outdoor tours that provide the opportunity to learn more about the history of Liberty Island and the Statue. Liberty Island Junior Ranger Programs are self-paced activities documented in a book on both Islands. Junior Rangers receive a Junior Ranger badge upon completion. Audio tours for the Statue of Liberty National Monument provide a wonderful enhancement to your visit and are especially useful for those with limited time. A special children’s tour features animal characters as guides. Both the Statue and Ellis tours are available with every ticket purchase.
Can I climb up the statue to the crown?
Crown Access to the Statue of Liberty remains closed but will be part of a later reopening phase.
If I have a question about my ferry ticket, who should I contact?
Statue City Cruises should be contacted regarding advance tickets, confirmations, and ferry schedules. Call (877) 523-9849 or email [email protected].
Is the Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island?
No, there are two separate islands, Liberty Island and Ellis Island. The Statue of Liberty is on Liberty Island.
Original Post Date: December 21, 2023