Tips for Visiting Statue of Liberty

Here are some tips to help streamline your trip, ensuring a smooth visit to one of the most iconic structures in New York and the world—the Statue of Liberty.

Several million individuals come to witness Lady Liberty, so implementing these smart tips will ensure a smooth visit, allowing you to explore this iconic beauty thoroughly.

Here is a list of the top 5 tips to help you plan your itinerary for visiting NYC’s National Monument.

Book Your Statue of Liberty Tickets in Advance 

Given the attraction’s popularity, you must book your tickets in advance to avoid not getting the ticket you want. 

There is a variety of options available. Each type of ticket allows access only up to a certain level.

The most basic tickets are the general admission tickets granting access to the grounds of Liberty Island.

The most popular type of ticket is the pedestal ticket allowing visitors to access the pedestal and the outdoor balcony. 

Even the Statue of Liberty guided tours are also popular.

People looking to climb to the topmost portion need to get Crown tickets. These are limited in number and you need to reserve them in advance. 

Check out the cruise tickets that offer a different perspective of Lady Liberty. 

Know the Best Time to Visit Statue of Liberty

Both the National Monument and Ellis Island remain open all days of the week and all day of the year except for two days. 

Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day are the two designated days when the Statue remains closed. Learn about the Statue of Liberty opening hours in more detail. 

This means you can visit the attraction any time of the year as it remains open to the public year-round.

Even then, we’d recommend steering clear of the chilly winter, as the temperature can plummet significantly.

Unless you specifically seek the festive ambiance of Christmas, a winter visit will be less enjoyable. Check information about Christmas.

Summer is the high season, and the Monument remains pretty busy during this time. A lot of people around the globe flock to marvel at the beautiful Lady Liberty.

If you can be flexible with the plans, visit the Statue of Liberty in April, May, and early June because the weather is terrific in these months. Know more about the Best time to visit.

Statue of Liberty Ferry Schedule 

The Lady Liberty is on an island, so you must take a ferry ride from New York or New Jersey to reach the attraction. 

In addition to considering the Statue of Liberty departure point at both locations, it’s essential to be mindful of the ferry schedule to reach the National Monument.

If you opt for the ferry from New York, it leaves Battery Park at 9 am, with subsequent ferries departing every 25 minutes. The last ferry from the mainland departs at 3.30 pm.

You can find more detailed information about the ferry from New York on the dedicated page.

For visitors from New Jersey, the ferries depart from Liberty State Park, following the same schedule as those from New York. Check the Ferry from New Jersey for further details.

The final return trip ferry from Liberty Island for both departure points is at 5 pm.

The last return trip ferry is at 5 pm from Liberty Island for both sides. 

What to Wear and What to Take to the Statue of Liberty? 

Depending on the weather and season you have picked to visit the Statue of Liberty, dress appropriately. 

This means cotton t-shirts, pants, and comfortable shoes in the summer with a hat to protect against the direct sun. 

Remember to pack your sunblock and apply it regularly. If the temperature is a bit low, then you should add layers. 

What is the Statue of Liberty Bag Policy?

You must go through a security check before boarding the ferry to Liberty Island. 

If you are going inside the statue of Liberty, to the pedestal level or the Crown, avoid bringing your luggage.

Large bags and things like selfie sticks, large umbrellas, and baby strollers are not allowed. 

The maximum size for any baggage is 24″× 18″. Ferry authorities will allow one small bag per person but no laptops, strollers, or weapons.

Another thing to note is that even if your small bag is in the shape of a backpack, it won’t be allowed. 

You can use the locker facility at nominal fees to store your valuables. 

We recommend not taking all of these in the first place to avoid the hassle.

What’s Included in the Statue of Liberty Tour? 

Don’t get carried away analyzing the beauty of Lady Liberty. Look beyond and explore everything included in the tour. 

Most Statue of Liberty tours let you explore the Island, the monument and Ellis Island, along with equally significant and fascinating things in and around the Liberty. 

For instance, check out the Liberty Museum, which will enlighten you about the statue’s history and more interesting trivia. 

Don’t ignore Ellis Island, which houses some of the most interesting buildings. Visit the Family History Centre on Ellis Island to find your story. 

Do check out the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum and Wall of Honor as well.

Finally, don’t forget to grab your free Statue of Liberty audio tour at the Kiosk located between the Refreshment building and the Information center. 

Note: You can save a lot of money if you choose the New York City Pass. See the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial Pools, Brooklyn Bridge, One World Observatory etc.

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