Statue of Liberty National Monument

Statue of Liberty National Monument is in Upper New York Bay on Liberty Island. The Statue of Liberty is accessible only by ferry service from The Battery; take the subway to the South Ferry stop to reach the departure point. The statue was presented to the United States by France and dedicated in 1886 in commemoration of the two countries' alliance during the American Revolution. Measuring 151 feet high on a 154-foot-high pedestal, it is the tallest statue of modern times. Ellis Island is nearby.

Visitors can take ranger-led or self-guiding tours of Liberty Island. Audio tours that can be used on both Liberty and Ellis islands are available as part of the ferry ticket. Free timed passes for entrance inside the pedestal are available but must be reserved at time of ferry ticket purchase; a limited quantity is available. A Flex ticket permits the user to visit the park once within 3 consecutive days. A 90-minute Hard Hat Tour of the 750-bed Ellis Island hospital complex also is available.

Only 10 people at a time are permitted to ascend the 377 steps from the main lobby to the crown platform. The walk is strenuous and is not recommended for the physically impaired. The crown's stairwell is a tightly enclosed area and is not air-conditioned.

Note: Visitors to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island must pass through primary security screening (similar to airport security procedures) before boarding the ferry. As part of security procedures, it is recommended that you allow ample time and maintain a flexible schedule to include security screening and boarding the ferry. Tickets can be purchased in advance as wait times can be several hours, particularly during peak seasons. Liberty Island is accessible only by ferry service, available daily from The Battery in Lower Manhattan and from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. A round-trip ticket includes stops at both Liberty and Ellis islands.

Guided tours are available. Food is available. Time: Allow 3 hours minimum.