Statue of Liberty
Statue of Liberty · New York, NY 10004, USA (Liberty Island)
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
Designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi with an iron framework by Gustave Eiffel, the statue was dedicated in 1886 and depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty, holding a torch and a tablet inscribed with the date of the Declaration of Independence. At 93 metres from ground to torch tip, it was the tallest iron structure in the world when completed, and became a symbol of welcome to millions of immigrants arriving by ship in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and is run by the National Park Service. Statue Cruises is the only official ferry operator, leaving Battery Park in Manhattan and Liberty State Park in New Jersey roughly every 15 to 20 minutes from about 8:30. The ferry pass costs about USD 24.50 and includes the pedestal; crown access adds USD 3, very limited. Subway lines 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 stop at Bowling Green.
Ticket Price
Ferry only (Liberty + Ellis Islands): around $24.50 adult; Pedestal access: included; Crown access: add $3 supplement (very limited); Children 4-12 reduced. Check the official site before booking.
Opening Hours
Ferries depart roughly every 15-20 min starting around 8:30 (first ferry) from Battery Park, NYC and Liberty State Park, NJ. Last ferry departs the islands around 4:30 PM (summer later). Closed 25 Dec. Check the official site before visiting.
Transportation
Subway 1/2/3/4/5 to Bowling Green or R/W to Whitehall St (short walk to Battery Park); Ferry from Battery Park (NY) or Liberty State Park (NJ); Statue Cruises is the only official ferry operator
Best Season
April–June and September–October for pleasant weather and manageable crowds; July–August is peak season with long ferry lines and hot humidity; winter is cold but much less crowded
Pro Tip: Book the official ferry and crown early
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Book the official ferry and crown early Use the official Statue City Cruises ferry and reserve crown access well in advance if you want it. Allow time for airport-style security at Battery Park.
Member-Only Tips
Upgrade to unlock insider hacks, best photo spots, and crowd timing advice.
Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
Crown tickets are limited and sell out months ahead; the pedestal gives good views and is easier to book. Both need the same ferry reservation.
Her skin is copper, which oxidised over decades into a green patina. The statue was a gift from France, dedicated in 1886, and stands 93 m including the pedestal.
Book several weeks ahead for the pedestal and two to three months for the crown; summer weekends sell out first. Arrive 30 minutes before your ferry slot for security.