Frequently Asked Questions

Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure. We’ll also issue refunds if the islands are closed due to weather, safety, or security reasons.

Please note: unused tickets are non-refundable.

For student groups with an authorized letter from their school and students under 18 years old, the ticket price is $17.00 per student. For every 10 students, one adult chaperone also pays $17.00. Any additional adult chaperones beyond this ratio will pay the regular adult rate of $26.00.

If you’re planning a student or youth group trip, please reach out to Statue City Cruises’ Group Sales team to help with your booking and answer any questions. You can contact them at 877-523-9849 or email [email protected]. They’ll be happy to assist you!

Just one ticket covers it all! Your Statue City Cruises ferry ticket includes round-trip transportation to Liberty Island, Ellis Island, and back to your original departure point.

You’re free to visit both islands in one trip, all with the same ticket. Each ticket also includes access to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. If you wish to look up immigration records, you can do so at the American Family Immigration History Center located on Ellis Island (a small fee may apply for records search).

Just keep in mind: once you return to either the New York or New Jersey dock and exit the ferry terminal, your ticket cannot be reused for reentry.

If you need to cancel your reservation, just let us know at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure, and we’ll gladly provide a refund. Refunds are also available if the islands are closed due to security, safety, or weather conditions. Please note that unused tickets cannot be refunded.

We gladly accept all major credit cards—AMEX, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover—as well as cash, traveler’s checks, money orders, and company or school checks. Please note, we’re unable to accept personal checks.

First, please check your spam or junk mail folder—sometimes tickets get caught there by mistake. If you still don’t see your mobile tickets, just email us at [email protected] and one of our crew members will be happy to help you out.

Heads up: some workplaces and government email systems may block our ticket emails because of file size or security settings. To avoid this, we recommend using a personal email address when you book. If for some reason you can’t get your mobile tickets, no worries — you can always pick them up at Will Call on the day of your cruise. Just bring a photo ID and the credit card used for the purchase.

Please note: Crown tickets must be picked up in person by the original purchaser at Will Call and can’t be sent as mobile tickets.

Tickets are not mailed, but don’t worry—you have a few easy ways to access them:

Mobile Tickets: The easiest option! Just open the email with your tickets on your phone and have them scanned right from your device when you board. No printing needed.

Print at Home or Hotel: Prefer a paper copy? You can print your tickets at home or use your hotel’s business center if you’re visiting from out of town.

Will Call Pickup: If you’d rather not worry about digital or printed tickets, you can choose to have your tickets held at Will Call. Just stop by the Will Call window at your boarding location on the day of your visit.

Be sure to bring a photo ID and the credit card you used to purchase the tickets. We want to make your visit smooth and stress-free, so choose the option that works best for you!

Reserve tickets are only valid for the specific date and time printed on them. If your plans change and you can’t make your trip, don’t worry—you may be able to cancel or reschedule (based on availability). Just give us a call at least 24 hours in advance at 877-523-9849, and we’ll do our best to help!

You can pick up your Will Call tickets at the ticket windows located in Battery Park, NY or Liberty State Park, NJ—whichever location you selected when booking.

At Battery Park, Will Call is inside Castle Clinton, the large round brick building right in the center of the park.

At Liberty State Park, head to the CRRNJ Train Terminal—that’s where you’ll find the Will Call window. Just bring a photo ID and the credit card used to purchase your tickets, and you’ll be all set!

The time on your ticket is your entry time to join the line for security screening—not a set ferry departure time. You’ll need to arrive at the screening facility at the time shown on your ticket. Once you’ve gone through security, you’ll board the next available ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

Sometimes this error happens because of a mismatch or formatting issue with the billing address—especially the postal code. Double-check that everything matches what your bank has on file, then try again. If the error keeps coming up, no problem—just give our Reservations Team a call at 877-523-9849 and they’ll be happy to help you complete your purchase.

That message usually means your browser has stored cookies or temporary data that’s getting in the way. A quick fix is to clear your cache and restart your browser, then try again. Still having trouble? Feel free to call our Reservations Team at 877-523-9849—we’re happy to help!

Not at all—but we do ask that you call our Reservations Team at 877-523-9849 before your visit so we can update your information and make sure everything goes smoothly when you arrive. We're happy to help get it sorted ahead of time!

Crown tickets are very popular and must be reserved in advance—just click the ‘Book Now’ link on our website to get started. Same-day crown tickets aren’t available, and unfortunately a waitlist is not available, so we recommend booking as early as possible!

You can reserve up to four people per order, and spots fill up quickly—especially in peak seasons—so don’t wait too long.

Please note the following safety and age restrictions for Crown access:

• For safety reasons, children under the age of 4 are restricted from entering the Crown.

• Everyone who meets the entry requirements must have a reserved Crown ticket and wristband. Without a purchased Crown ticket, entry will not be allowed.

• Guests must be at least 42” tall and able to climb stairs independently.

Please be prepared for a strenuous climb: there are 377 steps in total—equivalent to a 20-story building—which includes 162 narrow steps from the pedestal. No elevator access is available.

Yes, to make sure everyone has a great and safe experience, here are a few important details:

• You can reserve up to 4 crown tickets per booking, and each cardholder can make one reservation every 6 months.

• Please note that everyone, regardless of age, needs a ticket and wristband to go to the Crown.

• For safety reasons, children under the age of 4 are restricted from entering the Crown.

• Guests must be at least 42” tall and able to climb the stairs independently.

• Each visitor needs to bring a valid government-issued photo ID that matches the name on their ticket (minors without ID are an exception).

• Tickets are non-transferable, so only the person named on the ticket can use it.

• We also ask for the full name of every visitor when you purchase your tickets.

• All Crown visitors must pick up their tickets and wristbands in person at the Box Office located in Castle Clinton at Battery Park. This must be done before entering the Security Screening Facility or boarding the ferry. Visitors without wristbands will not be permitted to enter the Crown.

Please be prepared for a strenuous climb: there are 377 steps in total—equivalent to a 20-story building—which includes 162 narrow steps from the pedestal. No elevator access is available.

Thanks for helping us keep the experience safe and smooth for everyone!

Great! When you have crown tickets, the person who bought them will need to pick them up in person at the Will Call window—either at the New Jersey or New York ticket office. You’ll see your entry time printed right on your ticket. Don’t forget to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the credit card used to buy the tickets—both are needed to pick them up. Also, everyone in your group needs to be there to collect their own tickets.

Once you have your tickets, you’ll get to skip the regular lines and head straight to the priority entrance for screening. We can’t wait to see you enjoy this amazing experience!

Picking up your crown tickets is simple! The person who bought the tickets needs to stop by the Will Call window at the ticket office—either in New Jersey or New York. Be sure to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the credit card used for the purchase to grab your tickets.

Remember, your crown ticket is only good for the exact date and time you picked when you bought it, so plan accordingly! Everyone in your group should be there to pick up their own tickets. You’ll find your entry time to the Screening Facility printed right on the ticket. We’re excited for you to have an unforgettable visit!

To keep everyone safe and comfortable, we allow groups of up to 10 people inside the crown at one time. Usually, about 6 groups make their way up each hour, so the experience stays smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

Climbing up to the Crown is definitely a workout! There are 377 steps in total from the ground to the Crown—an experience equivalent to climbing a 20-story building. The space is enclosed, and it can get quite warm during the summer months.

All visitors must be able to climb up and down the stairs independently, without assistance.

Just a heads-up: there are 162 narrow, spiral steps between the top of the pedestal and the Crown itself. There is no elevator access for this part of the climb—it is the path from the Statue’s feet all the way up to her head.

If you love a good adventure and don’t mind a challenge, you’re going to love this unique experience!

Yes! National Park Service Rangers are always on site to help and keep everyone safe during the climb. Keep in mind, the Statue isn’t air-conditioned, so it can feel quite warm inside—sometimes up to 20 degrees hotter than outside, especially on hot days. We recommend drinking plenty of water before you start the climb since there are no restrooms inside.

For your safety and enjoyment, the National Park Service suggests that visitors be in good physical and mental health to handle the climb. Also, a quick heads-up: there’s no elevator between the pedestal and the crown—you’ll need to climb 162 stairs from the Statue’s feet all the way up to her head.

Crown tickets for the Statue of Liberty can’t be emailed. To keep things secure, all crown tickets must be picked up in person at the Will Call window—either in New Jersey or New York. Remember to bring a valid photo ID and the credit card you used to purchase the tickets when you pick them up. If you have any other questions, just let us know—we’re happy to help!

When you arrive on Liberty Island, head straight to the security screening facility located at the base of the Statue of Liberty. If you’ve already picked up your tickets at Will Call, you’ll have a special wristband showing you have crown access—just wear that to help our team guide you through smoothly. Get ready for an unforgettable climb and experience!

Yes! The crown is open every day, weather and conditions permitting. The only days we’re closed are Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day (December 25th). We look forward to welcoming you anytime you visit!

If you want to visit the crown, you’ll need to book a crown ticket separately.

Yes! Your crown ticket includes a round-trip ferry ride to and from Liberty Island, so you don’t need to buy a separate ferry ticket. Enjoy the beautiful views on the water as part of your visit!

Crown tickets are very popular and usually sell out months ahead of time. We recommend booking your tickets about 3 to 4 months in advance to secure your spot. If you don’t see availability for tomorrow, don’t worry—there are still plenty of other ways to enjoy the Statue and the islands!

We recommend buying your tickets in advance online for the easiest experience! You can grab them at www.statuecitycruises.com or by calling (877) 523-9849. You can also get tickets through concierges at many major hotels, or in person at the ticket windows inside Castle Clinton National Monument in Battery Park, New York, or at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Absolutely! We highly recommend reserving your tickets online in advance to make sure you get the date and time you want. It’s quick, easy, and helps you skip the lines!

First, please check your spam or junk mail folder—it’s common for ticket emails to get caught there. If you still don’t see your tickets, email [email protected] and we’ll help you out. Sometimes, work or government email accounts block large attachments, so we recommend using a personal email address to make sure your tickets arrive safely.

If for any reason we can’t send your mobile tickets, don’t worry! You can always pick up your tickets at Will Call on the day of your cruise. Just bring a photo ID and the credit card you used to buy the tickets. Please note, crown tickets must be picked up in person by the original purchaser at Will Call and cannot be sent as mobile tickets.

Unfortunately, we do not mail tickets, but don’t worry—you have a few easy options! You can show your tickets right from your mobile device for scanning. Or, if you prefer, you can print them at home or at your hotel’s business center. If that’s not convenient, you can also pick up your tickets at Will Call at either boarding location on the day of your visit.

Your ticket is valid only for the exact date and time printed on it. If you can’t make your scheduled trip, no worries! Just give us a call at (877) 523-9849 at least 24 hours before your visit to cancel or reschedule—subject to availability.

You can pick up your tickets at the Will Call windows located in two places: Battery Park, New York: Inside Castle Clinton, the big round brick building right in the heart of the park. Liberty State Park, New Jersey: Inside the CRRNJ train terminal. If you’re picking up tickets at Will Call, be sure to bring your photo ID and the credit card used to purchase your tickets.

Good news! Your ferry ticket includes trips to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island—no need to buy a separate ticket. The ticket gives you round-trip transportation and lets you hop between the islands throughout the day. Just keep in mind, once you leave the dock in New Jersey or New York, you can’t use the same ticket to re-enter. Enjoy exploring both amazing places!

You can print your ticket at home and when you arrive proceed to the screening facility at either departure location.

The Hard Hat tour does not include access to the Pedestal or Crown, separate tickets would need to be purchased in advance. Make sure that the tour times do not overlap!

Yes! At least one wheelchair is available at both Battery Park and Liberty State Park to help visitors get onto the ferry, and they are also available for free on a first-come, first-served basis from the National Park Service once you’re on the islands.

If you are borrowing one on the island, you’ll need to show a photo ID at the information desk. Just keep in mind that while wheelchairs are available at the departure points and on the islands, they are not provided on the boats themselves.

Strollers are allowed on the boats and the islands. However, please note that strollers are not permitted inside the monument.

If you or your guests have Crown or Pedestal tickets, strollers must be parked in a designated area outside the monument before you enter.

Yes! The grounds of Liberty Island are wheelchair accessible. If you have a reservation to enter the monument, wheelchair access is available to the museum and the exterior of Fort Wood.

There’s also a wheelchair-accessible lift from the main pedestal elevator stop up to the top of the pedestal. However, please note that the outdoor observation deck and balcony are not wheelchair accessible.

On Ellis Island, elevators are available to take visitors between the first, second, and third floors of the National Museum of Immigration.

The climb to the Crown is quite challenging. It involves climbing 393 steps—about the height of a 27-story building—inside a narrow, enclosed staircase. During summer, temperatures inside can get quite warm.

Important to know: there is no elevator access from the pedestal to the crown, and the final 162 steps are narrow and tight, so visitors must be able to climb up and down unassisted for safety reasons. If you have any mobility concerns, please consider this before booking your Crown tickets.

Yes, safety is a top priority. National Park Service Rangers are always on-site to assist visitors throughout the climb. Please be aware that the interior of the Statue is not air-conditioned, and temperatures inside can be up to 20 degrees warmer than outside, especially on hot days. It’s a good idea to drink plenty of water before starting your climb, and keep in mind there are no restrooms inside the Statue.

The climb involves 162 narrow stairs from the pedestal to the Crown, and there is no elevator access for this section. Because of the physical demands, the National Park Service recommends that visitors have no significant physical or mental conditions that could affect their ability to safely complete the climb.

Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available on all our ferries, as well as on Ellis Island and Liberty Island—for your comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

Headset audio tours are available on both Liberty and Ellis Islands, offering fascinating stories in multiple languages: Arabic, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.

For all Statue tours, guests 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older. Please note that for school groups, chaperones must be at least 21 years old. If you're excited about the Hard Hat Tour, it’s for guests 13 and up.

For Crown tickets, everyone 18 and older in your group will need to show a photo ID at check-in. Additionally, please note that everyone, regardless of age, needs a ticket and wristband to go to the Crown. Even if a child is under the age of 4, if a Crown ticket was not purchased for them, then they will not be allowed into the Crown.

To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, all guests visiting the Crown must be at least 42” tall.

We can’t wait to welcome you!

Directions to Statue Cruises at Liberty State Park

By Car: Take Exit 14B off the New Jersey Turnpike (or Route 78), whether coming from the north or south. After the toll plaza, turn left onto Black Tom Road and follow signs for Liberty State Park. Go under the overpass and continue straight past the roundabout; Black Tom Road becomes Morris Pesin Drive. Keep going for about half a mile. Turn left onto Freedom Way and drive 1.4 miles. Turn right onto Audrey Zapp Drive. Parking is the first driveway on the right. Once parked, walk towards the water and the historic CRRNJ Terminal—this is where Statue Cruises is located.

By Public Transportation: Take the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail to the Liberty State Park Station. You can connect to this via PATH from Hoboken or Newport stations. From the station, head north on Johnston Avenue, then turn right. Walk, bike, or drive under the overpass where the street becomes Audrey Zapp Drive. Follow the cobblestone road for about a mile until you see parking on your right. Park here if driving, or continue toward the historic CRRNJ Terminal. Statue Cruises’ ticket office is inside the terminal; the ferry departures are just a short walk from there.

By Ferry: Take the Liberty Landing Ferry Service from the World Financial Terminal in New York to Liberty Landing Marina in Liberty State Park, NJ. When you disembark, turn right and walk past the Liberty House Restaurant. At the path’s end, turn left towards the stairs, cross the cobblestone road to the parking lot, and then left onto the main path. The Statue Cruises ticket office is inside the historic CRRNJ Terminal, a short walk from the ferry departure area.

From Liberty Science Center: Exit the parking lot and turn left onto Communipaw Avenue. Turn left onto Phillip Street and continue for about half a mile. Turn right onto Audrey Zapp Drive and drive another half mile. Turn right into the parking lot and walk toward the water to reach the historic CRRNJ Terminal and Statue Cruises.

Directions to Statue Cruises at Battery Park, New York City The ticket office is located inside the historic Castle Clinton at Battery Park. We recommend using public transportation because parking in lower Manhattan is very limited. Taxis are also an option.

By Subway: Local 1 (7th Avenue Line): Take it to the last stop at South Ferry. Exit the station, walk north on State Street, then take the first path on your left into the park. Follow the path to the left until you reach Castle Clinton. Express 4 or 5 (Lexington Avenue Line): Get off at Bowling Green. Walk out, turn right into Battery Park, pass the flagpole, and Castle Clinton will be ahead.

Local R/W (Broadway Line): From Brooklyn or Queens, get off at Whitehall Street and follow signs to Battery Park. By Bus: Take the M1, M6, or M15 bus to South Ferry (last stop).

By Car: From the East Side, take the FDR Drive South to Exit 1, South Ferry Battery Park. From the West Side, take the Westside Highway South (Route 9A) to Battery Park. Parking is limited and can be expensive, so public transit is usually easier.

From the Staten Island Ferry Terminal: Walk west toward Battery Park, passing a playground on your right. Continue past a flagpole and straight ahead you’ll see Castle Clinton, the circular brick fort.

At Castle Clinton: To buy tickets, walk through to the middle of the building. If you have a Reserve Ticket, go directly to the security screening tent behind Castle Clinton along the seawall. If you have a Flex Ticket, ask a crew member for the end of the flex line.

Good news - you don’t have to return to where you started! You’re welcome to depart from one location and return from another. Just be sure to use the correct boarding area at each island. Keep in mind that once you disembark on the other side, you won’t be able to board a ferry back to your original departure point. But if you want to travel between Liberty State Park and Manhattan, the Liberty Landing Ferry Service offers a convenient option.

We recommend purchasing your tickets ahead of time to make your visit as smooth as possible, but don’t worry—there are usually tickets available for same-day purchase too! Your General Admission ticket includes a specific entry time to the security screening area. The time printed on your ticket tells you when to join the security line—not the ferry departure time—so be sure to arrive then to get through smoothly.

If you want to visit the Statue’s pedestal, you’ll need a Pedestal Reserve ticket. Ferries leave from two convenient locations: Battery Park in New York (Castle Clinton National Monument) Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey We’re excited to help you have a great visit!

Statue City Cruises generally sails rain or shine! However, please keep in mind that in cases of extreme weather, the harbor may be closed for safety, which could result in service suspensions or cancellations.

Be sure to check the weather forecast and our website for any real-time updates before your trip.

For everyone’s comfort and safety, smoking—including vapes and e-cigarettes—is not allowed on our ferries.

On Liberty and Ellis Islands, smoking is generally prohibited near buildings and in enclosed spaces. However, smoking is permitted on the grounds of Liberty and Ellis Islands, provided you are in an open outdoor area away from any buildings.

Thank you for helping us keep the experience enjoyable and safe for all visitors!

Your ticket shows where you’ll start your ferry ride, but when it’s time to head back, you can return to either Battery Park in New York or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Just keep in mind that once you get off the ferry on your return, you won’t be able to hop back on to go back to your original departure spot.

If you want to travel between New Jersey and Manhattan afterward, the Liberty Landing City Ferry is a great option to get you across the river easily!

If you need to cancel a Reserve Ticket, just let us know at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure, and we’ll happily provide a refund. If the islands are closed due to weather, safety, or security reasons, you’ll also receive a refund. Please note that unused tickets won’t be refunded, so be sure to plan accordingly.

We accept all major credit cards, including AMEX, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. You can also pay with cash, traveler’s checks, money orders, and company or school checks.

To keep the experience safe and comfortable for everyone, backpacks, food, and drinks aren’t allowed inside the Statue itself. If you have these items and a Pedestal Reserve ticket, don’t worry—there are lockers available before you enter where you can securely store them. This helps make sure everyone can enjoy their visit without any hassle!

If you’re looking to purchase 59 tickets or fewer, our reservation center is available to assist you daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM Eastern Time — seven days a week, all year round.

For larger groups requiring 60 tickets or more, the reservation center operates from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. No matter your group size, you can also conveniently purchase ferry tickets, audio tours, and General Admission reservations anytime online at www.statuecitycruises.com — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Once you have your tickets—whether printed at home or purchased at one of our Ticket Booth locations—we recommend allowing some extra time for the mandatory security screening before boarding. This process can vary depending on crowd levels, so arriving early helps ensure a smooth experience.

If you’re looking to save time, we highly suggest boarding from our Liberty State Park location in New Jersey. This spot often offers faster security processing, more convenient boarding, and plenty of parking, making your visit easier and more relaxed.

Our reservation center is proud to be multilingual, with agents available who speak English, Arabic, French, Italian, and Spanish. This helps us provide better service and support to a diverse range of visitors.

While National Park Passes are a fantastic way to explore many national parks, they unfortunately don’t apply to Liberty and Ellis Islands. These sites are fee-exempt by law, so there’s no entrance fee to the parks themselves. However, the ferry ticket needed to get there isn’t covered by the pass.

If you’re interested in learning more about National Park Passes or getting one for other incredible destinations, feel free to visit www.nationalparks.org—there’s a whole world of parks waiting for you!

For safety and security, all minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by a responsible adult who is at least 21 years old. If a minor arrives without an adult, they may be denied entry to the park.

Children aged three and under can ride the ferry for free and do not require a ticket or reservation. Feel free to bring your little ones along without worrying about booking a separate ticket!

However, please note the strict safety restrictions for the Crown:

• For safety reasons, children under the age of 4 are restricted from entering the Crown.

• All guests must be at least 42” tall and able to climb the stairs independently.

• Every visitor must have a specific Crown ticket and wristband. These must be picked up in person at the Box Office (Castle Clinton) before boarding the ferry. No one will be allowed into the Crown without a wristband.

For everyone’s safety and comfort, alcohol is not permitted onboard our ferries or within the security screening areas. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Yes! All our ferries feature a snack bar where you can purchase tasty treats and souvenirs to enjoy on board or take home. We accept cash, AMEX, Visa, and MasterCard; however, please note that personal checks are not accepted.

Yes! Evelyn Hill Inc. operates the food concessions on both Liberty Island and Ellis Island, offering a variety of delicious, high-quality meals. They focus on organic ingredients and provide many heart-healthy options to suit different tastes.

Yes, bathrooms are located on our ferries, Ellis Island and Liberty Island bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, for your convenience.

Yes, you are allowed to bring your food and beverage for lunch it must be sealed to enter the screening facility (coolers are not allowed). Pedestal Reserve ticket holders should be aware that food or beverages will not be allowed in the screening facility on Liberty Island.

We recommend wearing comfortable, safe, and practical shoes for your visit. You’ll be on your feet quite a bit and traveling by boat, which can move with the water and have wet decks. You’ll also walk along gangplanks when boarding and disembarking. For your safety, Statue City Cruises especially advises against open-toe shoes and flip-flops. Closed-toe, sturdy footwear will help ensure you stay comfortable and secure throughout your trip.

For Fall and Winter visits, we recommend dressing warmly and layering your clothing. On especially cold days, don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves to stay cozy and comfortable. In Spring and Summer, wear light, comfortable clothes suited to the warmer weather. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially during hot days, to help prevent heat exhaustion.

Nope! You’re free to get off at a different spot than where you started. Just be sure to use the right boarding area when you hop on the ferry at each island. Keep in mind, though, once you leave an island, you can’t catch a ferry back to your original departure point from there.

If you want to travel between Liberty State Park in New Jersey and Manhattan, the Liberty Landing City Ferry Service has you covered—it’s a separate ferry you can take to get around.

To keep things safe and comfortable for everyone, backpacks, food, and drinks are not allowed inside the Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty. But don’t worry—you can store these items in lockers conveniently located near the entrance of the Statue of Liberty National Monument.

Locker storage areas are not avaialble at the screening facility at Battery Park or at Liberty State Park.

We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance to help plan your visit smoothly, but don’t worry—same-day tickets are often available too! Your General Admission ticket includes a specific time to join the security screening queue, so please arrive at that time to ensure a timely entry. Keep in mind, this time is for entering security, not the ferry departure.

If you’d like to explore inside the Statue of Liberty National Monument, a Pedestal Reserve ticket is required, so be sure to reserve that ahead of time. We’re excited to welcome you and want to make your visit as easy and enjoyable as possible!

There are many scenic views for photos and guided tour opportunities. Liberty Island Ranger Tours are free outdoor tours that provide the opportunity to learn more about the history of Liberty Island and the Statue. Liberty Island Junior Ranger Programs are self-paced activities documented in a book on both Islands. Junior Rangers receive a Junior Ranger badge upon completion.

Audio tours for the Statue of Liberty National Monument provide a wonderful enhancement to your visit and are especially useful for those with limited time. A special children’s tour features animal characters as guides. Both the Statue and Ellis tours are available with every ticket purchase.

Yes! Crown Access to the Statue of Liberty is open, and visitors can enjoy the climb to the top. Please keep in mind that crown tickets are limited and must be reserved in advance, as they are not available for purchase on the islands.

If you have any questions about your ferry ticket, advance reservations, confirmations, or ferry schedules, the team at Statue City Cruises is happy to help! You can reach them by phone at (877) 523-9849 or by email at [email protected]. They’re there to make sure your visit goes as smoothly as possible!

The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island, while Ellis Island is home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. They’re two separate but closely connected islands—both rich in history and accessible by the same ferry service. Many visitors choose to explore both in one trip!

Nope! Your ferry ticket includes round-trip transportation to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island, so there’s no need to buy an extra ticket. You can visit both islands in one trip at no additional cost. Just keep in mind: once you return to either the New York or New Jersey departure dock and exit the ferry, your ticket can’t be used again for reentry that day.

Gift cards are the perfect way to give someone an experience that lets them schedule their adventure at their convenience!

Purchae online: Gift Cards are the perfect way to give someone an experience that lets them schedule their adventure at their convenience!

Purchase online: https://www.cityexperiences.com/gift-cards/, or through our contact center: https://www.cityexperiences.com/contact-us/.

Ellis Island offers a variety of meaningful and educational experiences for visitors:

• American Immigrant Wall of Honor – Located just outside the main building, this powerful tribute allows families to honor their heritage by having the names of ancestors etched into the wall. It’s a lasting way to celebrate those who journeyed to America in search of a better life.
• Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration – Explore interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and personal stories that trace the immigrant experience through time. It’s a deeply moving journey through America's history.
• Genealogy Research Center – Visitors can access ship manifests and immigration records to trace their family’s roots and discover more about their ancestors’ arrival in the United States. Special tours, films, and ranger-led programs are also offered throughout the year to bring these stories to life.

Visitors have limited access to areas on Ellis Island. The main attraction is the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which includes fascinating exhibits and the American Immigrant Wall of Honor located just outside the museum. While some historic buildings on the island are not open to the general public, special guided tours—like the Hard Hat Tour of the abandoned hospital complex—may be available with a separate ticket and reservation.

The only way for the public to visit Ellis Island is by ferry operated by Statue City Cruises. Private boats are not allowed to dock, and while there is a bridge to the island, it's only accessible to authorized personnel—not the general public. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ferry ride—it’s all part of the experience!

Your visit to Ellis Island is self-guided and completely at your own pace, so how long you stay is up to you! On average, most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and the surrounding grounds. Ferries depart approximately every 20 minutes, so you’ll have some flexibility when you’re ready to continue your journey.

Nope! Your General Admission Ticket already includes access to Ellis Island, along with Liberty Island. There’s no need to purchase anything extra to explore both historic sites.

Yes! Ranger-guided tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance.

Every ticket also includes a self-guided audio tour for both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. These tours are a great way to enrich your visit and are available in nine languages. There’s even a special children’s version featuring fun animal characters—available in five languages!

Unfortunately, there are no storage facilities at Ellis Island. Visitors are asked to carry and keep their personal belongings with them throughout their visit.

Yes! Ferries depart from Battery Park in New York City and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. If you’re traveling by car or bus, we highly recommend using the ample parking available at Liberty State Park in New Jersey, where parking costs $7 per car. Parking near Battery Park in New York City is usually limited and can be expensive, although private garages might be available.

Ferries depart from two main locations:

Depart From New York:

Castle Clinton National Monument

Battery Park, New York, NY 10004

Depart From New Jersey:

Liberty State Park

1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ

Both locations are well-marked, but we recommend arriving early to allow time for security screening.

We love animals, but pets are not allowed on the ferry or on Liberty and Ellis Islands. However, trained service animals are welcome in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and accessibility guidelines.

If you have any questions about bringing a service animal, feel free to contact Statue City Cruises for more information—we’re here to help!

Whether you have tickets printed at home or purchased them at a Ticket Booth, we recommend allowing some extra time to go through the security screening before boarding. The screening process can vary depending on the crowd, so arriving early helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

If you’re concerned about timing, we highly suggest using our Liberty State Park location in New Jersey. It often offers faster security processing, easier boarding, convenient access, and ample parking.

The time can vary depending on how busy the screening facility is, but once you’re inside, the process usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes on average. Following the security screening guidelines helps keep the line moving smoothly and reduces wait times.

The security screening process ensures everyone’s safety and is managed by the Park Police. To help the process go smoothly and quickly, please follow these tips: Remove all metal items such as jackets, boots, wallets, watches, keys, and loose change, and place them in the bins for screening. Place all metal-containing items from your bags, purses, or backpacks in bins for inspection.

Please note the following items are strictly prohibited on the ferry and within the parks:

• All weapons and replicas (including ammunition, BB guns, pellet guns, realistic firearm replicas, starter pistols, flare guns, tasers, stun guns, throwing stars, handcuffs, firearm parts, swords, brass knuckles, martial arts weapons, etc.)
• Drones and other unmanned aerial or water vehicles
• Illegal drugs and controlled substances, including marijuana
• Explosives, fireworks, flammable liquids, and hazardous chemicals
• Large bags or suitcases that don’t fit through the X-ray machine (max opening: 24.2” W x 17.9” H)
• Face masks or costumes that conceal identity
• Sharp tools and blades longer than 4 inches
• Alcoholic beverages and open containers
• Work tools (crowbars, hammers, drills, etc.)
• Self-defense sprays (pepper spray, mace)
• Spray paint, markers, or items used to deface property
• Recreational wheeled devices and sporting goods (bicycles, skateboards, bats, bows, etc.)
• Audio amplification devices (megaphones, wireless speakers)
• Large flags, banners, or posters exceeding 20 feet by 3 feet

Following these guidelines helps keep the lines moving and ensures a safe visit for everyone. For your safety and convenience, please review these rules before you arrive.

The Department of the Interior will introduce new entry fees for National Parks starting January 1, 2026. These fees will affect guests on commercial and non-commercial group tou

Alcatraz City Cruises and Statue City Cruises are not affected. International visitors pay no extra charges for Alcatraz Island or the Statue of Liberty.

Yes, both the Statue of Liberty and Alcatraz Island are managed by the National Park Service and use concession-operated ferries instead of park entrance fees, so the Department of the Interior fee changes do not apply.

Statue City Cruises and Alcatraz City Cruises do not charge a National Park entrance fee and are the only authorized National Park Service concessioners of ferry services to these sites.

Tickets purchased directly include tax, have no booking or processing fees, and guarantee the lowest price for all guests, regardless of citizenship or country of residence.

As of January 9, 2026 there are no additional fees for international visitors to Statue City Cruises or Alcatraz City Cruises. Pricing remains the same for both domestic and international guests, though this is subject to change based on guidance from the U.S. Department of the Interior.

We welcome visitors to book with confidence, knowing recent visitor fee changes at some U.S. National Parks do not impact visits to the Statue of Liberty or Alcatraz Island. Alcatraz City Cruises and Statue City Cruises continue to offer equal pricing and access for all guests.

No, there are no ticket booths located on Liberty or Ellis Island.

All Pedestal and Crown tickets are limited and typically sell out far in advance. Because of this, these tickets must be reserved online before your visit. You will not be able to upgrade your General Admission ticket once you are on the island or at the ferry departure points if they are already sold out.