The Statue of Liberty is an iconic symbol of independence and democracy, standing proudly in New York Harbor. In Gifted by the French people from the USA, this colossal statue has become a mark of hope and opportunity for millions of settlers arriving in America.
The Statue of Liberty was created by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the statue’s full name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.” Standing at a towering height of 305 feet, Lady Liberty holds a torch high above her head, representing the enlightenment and guiding light of liberty.
Her crown features seven rays, symbolizing the seven continents and the idea that freedom should spread throughout the world. The tablet she holds in her left hand bears the Declaration date of Independence, highlighting the historical connection to the nation’s founding principles.
The statue’s construction was a collaborative effort between France and the United States. The French provided the statue itself, while the Americans built the pedestal on which it stands. The statue was shipped in pieces to New York, where it was assembled on Liberty Island (then called Bedloe’s Island) in New York Harbor.
Statue Of Liberty Visiting Timing
The Statue of Liberty is open year-round, but visiting hours may vary. the opening time is approx 9 AM to 5 PM.
Generally, it opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It’s advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours.
Statue Of Liberty Ticket Charges
- Tickets typically include access to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island, as they are part of the same national monument.
- Prices vary based on age, with discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel.
- There are different ticket options, including pedestal access, crown access, and audio guides, each with varying costs.
- Advanced reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slots and avoid long queues.
| Entry Charges | Children Under 4 | Children 4-12 Years | Adults 13+ | Senior 62+ |
| FERRY FEE: | $0 | $12.00 | $24.50 | $18.00 |
| PEDESTAL ACCESS: | $0 | $12.30 | $24.80 | $18.30 |
| CROWN ACCESS: | Restricted | $12.30 | $24.80 | $18.30 |
| RANGER TOURS: | Free | Free | Free | Free |
| AUDIO TOURS: | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| ELLIS HARD HAT TOURS: | Restricted | Restricted | + $50 | + $50 |
Entrance passes are not required on these days:
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Monday, January 15, 2024
- First Day of National Park Week: Saturday, April 20, 2024
- Juneteenth: Wednesday, June 19, 2024
- The Great American Outdoors Act: Sunday, August 4, 2024
- National Public Lands Day: Saturday, September 28, 2024
- Veterans Day: Monday, November 11, 2024
The statue is constructed with copper sheets, which over time have developed a distinctive green patina, adding to its visual allure. The base, designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt, is decorated with a bronze plaque featuring the famous lines from Emma Lazarus’s poem “The New Colossus,” which poignantly declares, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”
Visitors to the Statue of Liberty can explore its museum, learning about the history and significance of this symbol. Additionally, a ferry ride to Liberty Island provides breathtaking views of the statue against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.
The Statue of Liberty stands not only as a physical monument but also as a powerful representation of the enduring principles of freedom, democracy, and the American dream. It serves as a reminder of the welcoming spirit that has greeted generations of newcomers to the shores of the United States.
Statue of Liberty Boat Tour
The Statue of Liberty boat tour was a great way to see this famous landmark. The tour started from Battery Park in New York City, where passengers boarded a ferry to Liberty Island. There, they got off the boat and saw the Statue of Liberty up close. Most tours also stopped at Ellis Island, where visitors could visit the museum and learn about the history of immigrants to the U.S.
During the boat ride, passengers enjoyed beautiful views of the New York City skyline and the harbor. Some tours had guides who explained the history and importance of the landmarks. It was best to buy tickets in advance and arrive early to avoid long lines.
Pro Tips
- Snag those tickets early: Tickets for the Statue of Liberty, especially crown access, sell out fast. Book well in advance, especially during peak season (summer and holidays) through the official Statue Cruises website [Statue Cruises website].
- Consider the time of day: Aim for an early morning ferry to avoid the worst crowds. You’ll have more time to explore and better lighting for photos.
- Embrace the combo: The ferry ticket usually includes a visit to Ellis Island, the immigration gateway for millions. It’s a fascinating historical add-on.
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Frequently Ask Question
Ques: Can Visitors still tour the inside of the Statue of Liberty?
Ans: Yes, visitors can still tour the inside of the Statue of Liberty. They have the option to purchase tickets that allow access to the pedestal and the crown of the statue. However, access to the crown is limited and requires advanced reservation due to safety and capacity considerations.
Additionally, visitors can explore the grounds of Liberty Island and visit the museum located within the pedestal. It’s important to check the official website or contact the National Park Service for the most up-to-date information on tour availability, ticket prices, and any restrictions or requirements before planning your visit.
Ques: Is the Statue of Liberty free?
Ans: Access to the Statue of Liberty’s grounds on Liberty Island is free, but there are fees for access to the pedestal and crown.
Ques: What is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty?
Ans: The best way to see the Statue of Liberty is by taking a ferry ride to Liberty Island. Visitors can get on the ferry from Battery Park in New York City or from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Once on the island, Visitors can walk around and get up close to the statue. Visitors can also go inside the pedestal or even climb up to the crown for a stunning view of the city skyline.
Ques: How much time do I need to visit the Statue of Liberty?
Ans: Plan to spend about 2-3 hours for a visit to the Statue of Liberty. This includes time for security checks, ferry travel to and from Liberty Island, exploring the statue and museum, and enjoying the views.
Ques: Do they still do tours of the Statue of Liberty?
Ans: Yes, tours of the Statue of Liberty are still available. Visitors can book guided tours or audio tours to learn more about the statue’s history and significance. Additionally, self-guided visits are also possible.
Ques: Which ferry is better for the Statue of Liberty?
Ans: Both the Statue Cruise ferry from Battery Park, New York, and the Liberty Landing ferry from Liberty State Park, New Jersey, offer access to the Statue of Liberty. The choice of ferry depends on your location and choice.
Ques: Is the Statue of Liberty worth going?
Ans: Yes, visiting the Statue of Liberty is definitely worth it. It is an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy, offering visitors a chance to learn about American history and immigration. The views of the statue and the New York City skyline from Liberty Island are also breathtaking.
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