Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

Why we recommend this tour

We recommend this tour for travelers seeking a more personal and relaxed visit to these iconic landmarks, benefiting from an early start to avoid peak crowds and a small group size for focused insights.

About this tour

This guided walking tour provides an intimate, early morning exploration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, led by a licensed NYC guide in a small group setting. You'll navigate these historic landmarks with expert commentary, gaining a deeper understanding of their significance. Designed for all ages, this tour prioritizes comfort and quality time. The early start allows for quicker security screening and more relaxed visits to both Liberty Island and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, ensuring you experience these iconic sites without the usual peak-hour rush. Your knowledgeable guide shares engaging stories, making history come alive.

Highlights

• Guided walking tour of Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty grounds
• Explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum with expert commentary
• Learn historical insights and stories from a licensed NYC guide
• Enjoy ferry rides with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline
• Experience fewer crowds due to the tour's early morning start
• Benefit from a small group size for a more personalized experience

Who is this tour for?

• Travelers seeking a guided historical overview of these iconic sites
• Visitors who prefer smaller group sizes for a more intimate experience
• Families with children of all ages looking for an engaging tour
• Anyone wanting to avoid large crowds at popular attractions
• First-time visitors to New York City interested in American history

Insider tips

• Book an early morning slot to significantly reduce wait times at security and ferry lines.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes; this tour involves extensive walking on both islands.
• Bring a small, easy-to-carry bag to expedite the mandatory security screening process.
• Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as conditions on the harbor can be breezy.
• Consider bringing a reusable water bottle, especially during warmer months.

What's included

• Museum Access
• Professional, Fun & Engaging Licensed NYC Tour Guide
• Round-trip Ferry Access: Battery Park-Statue Of Liberty-Ellis Island-Battery Park

What's not included

• PEDESTAL And/Or CROWN Access At Statue of Liberty
• All Food, Snacks & Beverages
• Souvenirs, Books, Ellis Island Computer Use Fees & Hard Hat Tours
• Gratuity/Tip For Guide (Optional) Generally, 15-18% Of Tour's Full Price

Itinerary

1. 1

   Stop 1

   After meeting your Guide at the designated meet-up/departure point in Battery Park, Lower Manhattan, your Guide will lead the group through Battery Park. It is in this area that the story of America unfolds. You'll learn about Manhattan's original occupation by indigenous Lenape tribes and the island's evolution into becoming the birthplace of America and as well as our nation’s most populous and financially important city! In-depth commentary will be provided in a fun and engaging way as the group makes their way into the heart of the park and towards the historic structure called Castle Clinton. En route, you’ll also enjoy a lovely view of 1 WTC (aka Freedom Tower) from across lawn of Battery Park. round Castle Clinton structure en route to the Statue of Liberty security screening tent before approved passage to the ferry to the Statue of Liberty.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   As the tour progresses into the heart of Battery Park, we come upon a round, historic structure, called Castle Clinton. The day’s tour includes a visit to the famous Ellis Island immigrant-processing depot, and likewise, Castle Clinton has also played a role in our immigrant story. In fact, Castle Clinton has served many purposes since its being built in the early 19th century and you’ll learn about them on this tour.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   After sharing the history of Castle Clinton, the Guide will lead the group through airport-style security. This security check-point for ferry-access to Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty, is mandatory for all Guests. It is important to note that carrying weaponry of any kind is strictly prohibited. Prohibited items will be confiscated, cannot be retrieved and may result in legal jeopardy even if you’re licensed to carry them in your own state or country! Once all Guests have passed the security inspection, the group will then board the first of two 10-minute ferry rides that we will use during the tour. Our first ferry brings us to Liberty Island. Here, you'll have an opportunity to view the Statue of Liberty up-close, from Liberty Island's grounds. Through in-depth commentary, you’ll learn all about how this important icon of freedom came to be. You'll also see the Statue of Liberty's original torch, on display at the Statue of Liberty Museum.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   From 1892-1954, Ellis Island was the largest, busiest and most famous immigrant-processing depot, in the USA! During the tour, your Guide will share insightful information about the varied history of this island and will share in-depth information on the immigrant inspection process. The Guide's commentary is done upon the grounds of the island, outside of the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum. The tour concludes on Ellis Island after the guided portion of the tour has ended. Afterwards, you are free to further explore Ellis Island, on your own. Access to the many fine self-guided exhibits found inside the fascinating Ellis Island National Immigration Museum, is included in the price of your tour. A book store, souvenir shop, cafe and computerized immigrant research facilities can also be found on the island. At your leisure, when you are ready to leave the Ellis Island, simply board a NYC-bound ferry that will return you to Battery Park, in Lower Manhattan (included).

Frequently asked questions