Top 5 Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty
1. Plan ahead
If you want to go inside the statue, you'll need an advance reservation. Tickets to the crown often sell out months ahead of time, and pedestal tickets usually are gone several weeks in advance—especially during the summer months. If you’re looking for a more spontaneous option, check out these alternative ways to experience Lady Liberty.
2. Pre-book your ferry ride
The statue is located on Liberty Island, reached by a short ferry ride from Manhattan’s Battery Park neighborhood. The ferry line can stretch for an hour or more, but you can skip the wait by buying a timed ticket in advance online.
3. Join a free tour
Learn about Lady Liberty’s backstory on a free tour led by Liberty Island park rangers. You can also tour at your own pace with an audio guide, or download the free mobile app from the National Park Service.
4. Go on a weekday
The Statue of Liberty is one of New York City's most popular attractions, with the long lines and crowds to go with it. If you can manage it, visit Monday through Friday for a more peaceful experience and shorter wait times.
5. Pack snacks
There’s a café and concession stand on Liberty Island, but the menu is fairly basic. Bring your own food for a gourmet picnic with some of the best views in New York City.
Ways to Experience the Statue of Liberty
Madigan Talmage-Bowers is a writer based in Denver, Colorado. She has also lived in Italy, San Francisco, and New York City, where she studied media theory at the New School. She loves introducing her kids to ancient history, local art, hiking trails, and new foods on adventures around the globe.