Plan your visit to America’s most iconic symbol. Ferries to Liberty Island depart from Battery Park in Manhattan and Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Purchase tickets only from the official operator, Statue City Cruises, to avoid scams. Basic ferry tickets (which include Ellis Island) cost $25.50 for adults (13+), $16.50 for children (4‑12) and $22.50 for seniors (62+). Kids under 4 ride free. Pedestal access adds $0.30, and a limited number of crown tickets sell out months in advance.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid lines, especially in peak season. Security screening is similar to airport checkpoints, so pack light and leave prohibited items behind. Ferries operate year‑round; the trip to Liberty Island takes about 15 minutes, and Ellis Island is another 10 minutes further. Leave at least half a day to explore both sites and the Ellis Island Museum of Immigration.
