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Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Liberty Island (ferries depart from the Battery) · New York, NY

Why you should go…

Some sights you simply have to see in person, and the Statue of Liberty tops the list. The ferry from the Battery gets you up close to the torch-bearing icon, then continues to Ellis Island's moving National Museum of Immigration. Book pedestal or crown access early, they sell out weeks ahead.

  • #national monument
  • #ferry
  • #history
  • #harbor views
  • #immigration

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Museums
    History Buff

    9/11 Memorial & Museum

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    One World Observatory

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    Ride to the top of the Western Hemisphere's tallest tower for 360-degree views from floors 100–102 of One World Trade Center.

    2.3 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
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    New York City

    Free

    The five-borough metropolis behind Broadway, world-class museums, and some of the country's densest sightseeing per block.

    2.6 mi awayMore like this

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    Iconic

    Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

    $25–$50

    Military and space history museum aboard the retired aircraft carrier USS Intrepid on the Hudson River.

    2.6 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Sightseeing
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    Lower Manhattan

    Free

    The historic financial district and waterfront neighborhood at Manhattan's southern tip.

    2.6 mi awayMore like this

  • Eat & Drink
    Legendary

    Katz's Delicatessen

    $25–$50

    NYC's oldest deli, slinging hand-carved pastrami on rye since 1888, and home of the famous 'When Harry Met Sally' table.

    3.8 mi awaySwitch it up: Eat & Drink