Book Statue of Liberty Tickets & Ferry Access Now
Statue of Liberty tickets can be booked online through the official Statue City Cruises website, which is the only
Statue of Liberty tickets can be booked online through the official Statue City Cruises website, which is the only authorized ferry operator for Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
Booking Statue of Liberty Tickets
The official site for booking Statue of Liberty tickets is Statue City Cruises, approved by the National Park Service (NPS). Tickets can be purchased directly from their website or at ticket offices located at Battery Park in New York and Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Travelers should avoid buying from street vendors because many sell fake or unauthorized tickets.
There are three main ticket options:
- General Admission Ticket – Includes ferry rides, access to Liberty Island, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty Museum.
- Pedestal Access Ticket – Offers everything in the general admission plus access to the pedestal of the statue.
- Crown Access Ticket – Gives access to the crown, but only a limited number of tickets are available each day.
Each ticket includes a round-trip ferry ride, entry to both islands, and a free audio tour. The ferry operates regularly throughout the day, and passengers can choose either departure point in Manhattan or New Jersey. Tickets should be booked weeks ahead, especially for crown access, which sells out quickly.
Statue of Liberty Ferry Details
The ferry service is managed by Statue City Cruises, running from Battery Park and Liberty State Park. Every visitor must go through airport-style security screening before boarding. The ferry stops first at Liberty Island, where visitors can explore the statue, museum, and park area, and then continues to Ellis Island, which houses the Immigration Museum.
Ferries usually start operating from 8:30 AM and continue until 4:30 PM, depending on the season. Each round trip, including exploring both islands, takes about 3 to 5 hours. Travelers are free to stay on each island as long as they wish, as return ferries run frequently.
For faster boarding and less crowding, many locals prefer taking the ferry from Liberty State Park, which has shorter lines compared to Battery Park. Both departure points offer beautiful views of the New York Harbor and skyline.
Ticket Prices and Access Options
The Statue of Liberty tickets are affordable and include access to both islands. Prices may vary slightly by season but are usually around:
- Adults (13+): $25.50
- Children (4–12): $16.00
- Seniors (62+): $21.00
Entry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island is free, but the ferry ticket is required for transportation. The pedestal and crown access come with no extra ticket type but need to be reserved in advance. For crown access, visitors must climb 162 narrow stairs; there is no elevator to the top. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a physically demanding climb.
Tickets can be printed or shown digitally on a mobile device. Early morning slots are recommended to avoid crowds and get better weather views.
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Security and Visitor Rules
Visitors to the Statue of Liberty must pass two security screenings:
- Before boarding the ferry.
- Before entering the Statue pedestal or crown.
Bags, backpacks, and food are not allowed inside the Statue. Lockers are available for rent near the entrance for small fees. Cameras are allowed, but tripods are not permitted inside the Statue. Visitors should carry only essential items.
Children under 4 years are not permitted inside the crown, and people with health conditions that make stair climbing difficult should avoid choosing crown access tickets.
What’s Included with Statue of Liberty Tickets
Each ticket provides access to:
- Liberty Island: Walk around the statue’s base, visit the Statue of Liberty Museum, and enjoy scenic views of Manhattan.
- Statue of Liberty Museum: Learn about the history, design, and construction of the monument, including the original torch on display.
- Ellis Island: Explore the National Museum of Immigration, where millions of immigrants once entered the United States.
- Audio Tours: Available in multiple languages and included in every ticket.
The ferry between Liberty and Ellis Islands is included. Visitors can return from either island to their starting location by any departing ferry.
Visiting Tips
To make the most of your Statue of Liberty visit:
- Book early: Crown access tickets can sell out months in advance.
- Arrive early: Security screening and ferry boarding can take time.
- Choose Liberty State Park: Often faster than Manhattan for boarding.
- Plan for weather: Bring sunscreen in summer and warm clothing in winter.
- Allow at least half a day: Visiting both islands can take several hours.
Photography enthusiasts should take early ferries to capture the morning light over New York Harbor. Visitors with mobility issues can request elevator access to the pedestal level, but not beyond.
Directions to Departure Points
Battery Park (New York City):
Accessible via subway lines 1, 4, 5, R, or J to Bowling Green or Whitehall Street. Nearby parking is limited, so public transport is best.
Liberty State Park (New Jersey):
Located in Jersey City and accessible by car or public transport. Parking is available next to the ferry terminal, making it a convenient option for families or groups.
Both terminals have ticket counters, restrooms, gift shops, and cafes. However, tickets should ideally be purchased online to avoid long queues.
Accessibility & Services
The ferries and Statue of Liberty grounds are wheelchair accessible. Elevators are available up to the pedestal level, and wheelchair ramps are provided on the islands. Service animals are permitted. Free maps and visitor guides are distributed at arrival points.
For families, strollers are allowed on Liberty Island but not inside the statue. Visitors can also enjoy picnic areas and open lawns for relaxation.
Best Time to Visit
The Statue of Liberty is open year-round except for December 25. The best times to visit are during spring and fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Morning ferries usually provide better photo opportunities with fewer people around.
During peak summer months, it’s best to book early morning or late afternoon slots to avoid long lines. The last ferries usually depart around 4:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Online Booking Links
The safest and easiest way to buy Statue of Liberty tickets is through the official partner:
Bookings include ferry tickets, access to both islands, and entry to museums. Travelers should ensure they book only through official channels linked to the National Park Service (NPS) to guarantee authenticity and security.
