Why You, Yes, You, Should Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island This Summer

Before summer bids us farewell, it’s time to rediscover the crown jewels in our backyard – the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Trust us, these icons aren’t just for tourists; a trip to Liberty and Ellis Islands will take you on a journey through history that’ll remind you of everything you love about the city. Plus, it’s the perfect thing to do with any out-of-town guests. 

On Liberty Island, visitors will have the chance to get up close and personal with the Lady herself.. Depending on the ticket you purchase, you may be able to walk up into the statue’s famed Crown. Visitors can also explore the Statue of Liberty Museum, which has Lady Liberty’s original torch on display, among other exhibits. 

The tour continues at Ellis Island, where visitors can walk through the buildings and landscapes that nearly 12 million immigrants traveled through when they first arrived in the U.S. Visitors can explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which chronicles the experiences of immigrants from the 1500s to today. In the Family History Center, you can look through immigration documents and learn more about your ancestors who passed through Ellis Island. 

Statue City Cruises is the only authorized tour provider for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Tours depart from Battery Park in New York City and from Liberty State Park in Jersey City multiple times per day. Tickets start at $25 for adults and can be purchased online or at the official Statue City Cruises ticketing windows in the Castle Clinton National Monument inside Battery Park. All tickets include round-trip ferry service, access to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and the Statue of Liberty Museum, and self-guided audio tours. Additional experiences, such as a hard hat tour of Ellis Island and access to the Statue of Liberty crown, can be purchased with premium tickets.