Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: All Options

Discover the Iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour in NYC

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour offered by ExperienceFirst delivers a thorough exploration of two of New York City’s most recognizable landmarks. Priced at $69 per person, this half-day tour lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours and provides an enriching experience that combines guided commentary with self-guided museum visits. With over 11,600 reviews and an average rating of 5.0, this tour consistently earns high praise, making it a reliable choice for visitors eager to learn about America’s immigrant past and enjoy stunning harbor views.

This tour is perfect for those who want to avoid ticketing lines and benefit from included round-trip ferry tickets, allowing you to focus on the sights and stories. The guided tour of Liberty Island enhances the experience with expert narration, while the self-guided visits to the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Immigration Museum offer flexibility. Whether you are short on time or want a comprehensive visit, multiple options cater to different interests and schedules.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip ferry tickets with scenic views of NYC skyline
• Guided tour of Liberty Island with expert narration
• Self-guided museum visits at Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Immigration Museum
• Flexible options available: 2-hour or 4-hour tours, depending on your schedule
• Tour departs from Castle Clinton in Battery Park and ends back in New York
• Suitable for most travelers, with detailed security procedures and walking involved

Departure Point at Castle Clinton in Battery Park

The tour begins at Castle Clinton National Monument, a historic sandstone fort located in Battery Park. This site serves as the meeting point for all participants and is easily accessible near public transportation. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early to navigate security screenings and check in smoothly.

The meeting process involves forming a line, which can be challenging during busy times due to construction around the area. Despite this, the tour staff is friendly and well-organized, ensuring a prompt departure. The tour concludes at a different location, typically back in Battery Park, after completing the full itinerary.

Ferry Ride with Stunning NYC Skyline Views

A highlight of this tour is the round-trip ferry ride across New York Harbor. The ferry provides excellent vantage points for photos of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. As the ferry departs from Castle Clinton, it offers passengers the chance to enjoy panoramic views of the city’s iconic buildings, making it a memorable part of the experience.

The ferry is multi-level, with stairs and available seating on all decks. Given the popularity and busy schedule, travelers should expect some crowds, especially in peak times. Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard, allowing for a quick snack during the ride.

Liberty Island: Getting Up Close with Lady Liberty

Once on Liberty Island, the tour offers a guided walk around the Statue of Liberty. Visitors are encouraged to take plenty of photos of the sculpture up-close and enjoy sweeping views of the city skyline. The Statue of Liberty Museum is included in the visit, providing insights into how the statue became an enduring symbol of freedom.

For those opting for the comprehensive 4-hour tour, there is time to explore the museum at your own pace after the guided portion. The museum is self-guided, featuring exhibits that explain the statue’s history, construction, and significance. The shorter express option allows visitors to end their visit here or stay longer on their own.

Visiting Ellis Island and Its Immigration History

The Ellis Island component is only part of the comprehensive tour, lasting about one hour with a guide pointing out notable sights like the American Immigrant Wall of Honor. This stop is a vital part of American history, recounting the stories of over 12 million immigrants who arrived between 1892 and 1954.

At Ellis Island, visitors can explore the National Museum of Immigration using the included audio guide. The museum offers exhibits about the immigrant experience, the processing center, and personal stories of newcomers. Since guides are not permitted inside the museum, personal exploration allows visitors to linger or move at their own pace.

Tour Options: Comprehensive vs. Express

The tour provides two main options to suit different timeframes:

• The Comprehensive 4-hour Tour includes a guided walk of both Liberty Island and Ellis Island, with visits to the Statue of Liberty Museum, American Immigrant Wall of Honor, and Ellis Island Immigration Museum. This allows for a deeper immersion into the history and landmarks.

• The Express 2-hour Tour focuses solely on Liberty Island, allowing visitors to skip Ellis Island and spend more time at the statue or museum on their own. This is ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a quicker visit.

Both options feature ferry tickets and museum entries included, streamlining logistics and avoiding long lines. Please note that access to the pedestal and crown is not included in either tour, and guided tours are not permitted inside the museums.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately for the forecast. Security screenings are similar to airport procedures, and large items must be checked into lockers (available for $0.25).

The group size is limited to 25 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere. The guides wear orange hats or blue shirts/jackets, making them easy to identify. Physical activity involves walking on uneven surfaces and about 160 steps to reach the pedestal at Statue of Liberty.

Children 3 and under attend free with a paid adult, making this tour suitable for families. Food options are available at various points, including on the ferry, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island.

Reviews and Real-World Feedback

With over 11,600 reviews and an average score of 5.0, this tour consistently impresses visitors. Praises highlight the knowledgeable guides, such as Jim, Jack R, Owen Thompson, and Jeff, who elevate the experience with stories, humor, and clear narration.

Many reviewers emphasize the stunning ferry views of New York City’s skyline, especially in good weather. Guides are often praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, making history engaging for all ages. The organization is also noted as smooth, despite some comments about crowds and construction near the meeting point.

A few critiques mention the difficulty finding the meeting point due to construction, and the limited time inside the museums, especially Ellis Island, which may require additional time for a full visit.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour offers a well-rounded experience of New York’s most iconic symbols. Its inclusive ferry tickets, guided commentary, and museum visits make it a practical choice for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts alike.

The comprehensive option suits those eager to explore both islands in depth, while the express version caters to travelers with tighter schedules. The tour’s friendly guides and stunning views create a memorable outing, especially for those interested in America’s immigrant story or iconic landmarks.

While pedestal and crown access are not included, the tour provides enough time to enjoy key sights and take plenty of photos. It’s a highly-rated, reliable way to see Lady Liberty and learn about her significance in American history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Castle Clinton National Monument in Battery Park, New York.

How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start to manage security screening and check-in.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip ferry tickets, a guided tour of Liberty Island, and museum entries for the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

Can I access the pedestal or crown?
No, pedestal and crown access are not included and require separate tickets.

What should I wear?
Dress for weather conditions, as the tour operates rain or shine. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 3 and under are free with a paid adult, but note that the tour involves walking and security screening.

How long does the entire tour last?
The comprehensive tour lasts about 4 hours, while the express tour is around 2 hours.

Are the museum guides included?
No, guides are not permitted inside the museums; visitors explore at their own pace with an audio guide for Ellis Island.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours run rain or shine. If canceled due to extreme weather, options include rescheduling or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.