Visiting the Statue of Liberty: A quick guide

The Statue of Liberty stands as a symbol of freedom and democracy, welcoming visitors from around the world to the shores of New York City. There are a few ways to experience the Statue of Liberty, and your options really depend on what you are looking for. Let's take a look at your various options.

If you just want to see the Statue of Liberty…

Well, if all you wanted to do is to just see the iconic Statue of Liberty, you would be interested in where the best place to see the statue is, and how you can see the statue.

Best views of Statue of Liberty from land

If you simply want to catch a view of the statue from land, head to Battery, located in the southern area of Lower Manhattan.

1. Battery Park: Although a distance away from the Statue of Liberty, you will get some of the best, unobstructed views of the iconic monument as you walk along the Battery Park boardwalk.
2. Brooklyn Bridge: Walking along the Brooklyn Bridge is in itself a uniquely New York experience not to be missed. As you walk along Brooklyn Bridge, you will also be treated to some of the most beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty. It is recommended to head there earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds.
3. One World Observatory: For a picturesque, birds-eye view, head up to the One World Observatory. Located in the southernmost part of Manhattan, the One World Observatory is the closest observation deck to the Statue of Liberty. Do note that while the views are unobstructed, Lady Liberty is still quite a distance away, so do manage your expectations!

Take a sightseeing cruise to get closer to the Statue of Liberty

If seeing the Statue of Liberty from land is too far for you, and you want to look at it from a closer point, the good news is that there are many options for a cruise that allow you to get nearer to the Statue of Liberty.

These cruises will cruise past the Statue of Liberty, allowing you to enjoy a view of the iconic statue from the sea.

See the Statue of Liberty from air

If budget permits, consider going on a helicopter tour for unparalleled views of the Statue of Liberty. See Lady Liberty and get a bird's eye view of Liberty Island from above. Helicopter tours are a great experience, but they are definitely not the cheapest options around!

If you want to visit the Statue of Liberty…

If simply seeing the statue is not good enough for you, and you want to get up close to the statue, it is definitely possible!

There are three options for you to visit the Statue of Liberty up-close:

• Standard ticket: Visit the Statue of Liberty from ground on Liberty Island. You do not get access to the Statue of Liberty.
• Pedestal ticket: Visit the pedestal of Statue of Liberty
• Crown ticket: Visit the crown of Statue of Liberty

The crown ticket and pedestal tickets are limited and require advanced reservations - it is not possible to visit the crown and pedestal without a ticket. The tickets sell out fast, so be sure to secure your tickets ahead of time. Do note that there is a 162-steps climb up to the crown and there is no elevator access, so you will have to be fit enough for that climb!

The standard tickets are most widely available, and it is possible to get them on the day itself.

Buying tickets for the Statue of Liberty

You can buy tickets for the Statue of Liberty from Statue City Cruises, the official ferry service provider. This is also the only channel that you could possibly get a ticket for pedestal or crown access.

If you are not going for the pedestal or crown access, you can also consider joining a guided tour. There also many tour operators that provide tours to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. However, it is important to note that most of these tours do NOT include pedestal nor crown access.

Looking for a tour for the Statue of Liberty? Compare prices for the different tours and find the best option for you!