A Guide to Taking the Ferry to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island in New York City

New York City is home to some of the most iconic and beautiful landmarks in the world. The Statue of Liberty is one of the most famous landmarks of them all, and a visit to it and its surrounding Ellis Island is an unforgettable experience. Although it may seem intimidating to go there with all the different transportation options available, getting there via a ferry is a fun and efficient way to visit these two popular attractions.

The Basics of the Ferry Ride

The journey through New York Harbor to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island generally takes about one hour, depending on the speed of your mode of transportation and the weather. Ferries depart from Manhattan in Battery Park, Brooklyn in Dumbo, and Staten Island. It is important note that tickets for the ferry are required for both legs of the journey, which includes the ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn and the separate ferry ride from Ellis Island to the Statue of Liberty. Getting in line early is essential because there is often a long wait to get onboard the ferry. You can purchase tickets in advance online through services like GetYourGuide or at one of the ticket kiosks or ticketing office located in Battery Park or Dumbo before you board the ferry.

The Ferry Ride Itself

Once you board the ferry, the experience begins. As you board the spacious vessel at the docks, the views are amazing. A huge American flag waves proudly from a staff at the stern, and soon you are out cruising the highlights of New York Harbor. Off to the left you’ll have excellent views of Lower Manhattan, with its iconic skyline and stunning architecture. To the right you’ll behold The Statue of Liberty herself, reigning over the harbor in all her splendid glory as well as Ellis Island just beyond. On your way to Liberty Island, you’ll actually travel past Governor’s Island and The Brooklyn Bridge (if you are aboard a boat originating from Manhattan). Tours are available, some with digital audio playback devices in several languages.

Your Stop at Liberty and Ellis Island

Once at Liberty Island, visitors disembark onto a walkway to wander around this magnificent structure or hike part of Liberty Island’s trails. If you opt for the later, you may spot numerous types of birds–hawks, geese and swallow, among others–as well as waterways that border the island. On a beautiful day, with a clear view and a light breeze, this is truly an amazing experience. During your visit, you can take pictures of Lady Liberty from a distance or go into her spacious interiors, depending on the options offered in your chosen package (simple landing pass, crown access, pedestal access).

Once off the boat if you are heading for Ellis Island, your adventure continues. With its interesting museum, harbour views and artefacts from years gone by, there’s plenty to explore for those with a penchant for history. A separate ferry will take visitors from Liberty Island to Ellis Island, offering another chance to admire views of The Statue of Liberty from afar as well as Manhattan’s downtown skyline and Brooklyn Bridge from a different vantage point. On Ellis Island itself there is plenty to explore with both outdoor and indoor activities available such as visiting the museum or taking picturesque walks over rotting wooden pathways.

For those looking for a more detailed experience with access to restricted areas we recommend booking a guided tour of the grounds in advance via GetYourGuide or at kiosks on location led by knowledgeable guides who will take you into places off-limits to individual visitors.

​Conclusion

Taking the ferry ride to both Liberty and Ellis Islands is a great option for visitors who want to get close to both monuments in one day. Cruising down New York harbor provides gorgeous sights for those who want photos to capture their visit in an unforgettable way. For tourists who want the full package – from getting their tickets online in advance, catching an exciting ferry ride, sightseeing around Liberty Island, and exploring Ellis Island with a guided tour – taking the ferry is a great choice for an unforgettable experience. Book an activity now here.

An Insider’s Guide to New York City

As someone who has lived in New York City for many years, I can tell you that this vibrant and bustling metropolis is full of hidden treasures that most tourists miss. Here are some insider tips and local favorites to make the most of your trip to the city that never sleeps.

Local Attractions Beyond the Tourist Spots

While iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building are undoubtedly impressive, there is so much more to this city than just these popular tourist spots. Some off-the-beaten-path attractions that are worth exploring include:

– The High Line: This elevated park runs through Manhattan’s West Side and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
– The Cloisters: A hidden gem in Upper Manhattan, this museum features stunning medieval art and architecture.
– The Brooklyn Botanic Garden: A peaceful oasis amid the city’s hustle and bustle, the garden is home to vibrant flora and a serene Japanese garden.

Dining Spots and Local Cuisine

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in its food scene. From street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers something for every palate and budget. Some classic dishes you must try include:

– Bagels with lox and cream cheese: An iconic New York breakfast.
– Pizza: Whether you go for thin-crust or deep-dish, the city’s pizza joints are legendary.
– Pastrami on rye: A quintessential New York deli sandwich. Try it at Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side.
– Halal food carts: These ubiquitous carts offer hearty and delicious food on the go, such as lamb or chicken over rice with a spicy sauce.

Cultural Experiences

New York City is a hub of creativity and cultural diversity, with countless art galleries, museums, and performance spaces. Here are a few unique experiences to consider:

– Attend a Broadway show: The city’s theater district is world-famous for a reason.
– Explore street art in Bushwick: This Brooklyn neighborhood is known for its vibrant murals and graffiti.
– Visit the Museum of the Moving Image: Located in Queens, this museum explores the art and history of film and television.
– Attend a jazz show at the Village Vanguard: This legendary Greenwich Village club has hosted some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.

Local History

New York City has a rich and fascinating history, from its founding as a Dutch colony to its role as the financial and cultural capital of the world. Some captivating stories to explore include:

– The history of immigration on Ellis Island: Millions of people passed through this gateway to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
– The construction of the Brooklyn Bridge: This engineering marvel was completed in 1883 and connected Brooklyn and Manhattan for the first time.
– The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire: This tragic event in 1911 led to significant reforms in workplace safety and labor laws.
– The birth of hip hop in the Bronx: This musical genre grew out of African American and Hispanic communities in the Bronx in the late 1970s.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, consider the following:

– Take a helicopter tour of the city: See the city from a whole new perspective.
– Have a picnic in Central Park: Grab some food and a blanket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in this iconic park.
– Visit the Coney Island boardwalk: This historic amusement park is a favorite among locals and offers classic rides and attractions.
– Walk the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset: The stunning views of the city skyline at dusk are truly breathtaking.

I hope this insider’s guide helps you make the most of your trip to New York City. Remember to keep an open mind and explore the city with a sense of adventure – you never know what hidden gems you might discover!