Things to Do
Things to Do on Ellis Island
For more than 60 years, Ellis Island served as the nation's busiest immigration station, welcoming more than 12 million immigrants seeking a new life in America. Today, the island preserves those stories through world-class museum exhibits, family history resources, historic landmarks, and National Park Service programs that bring the immigrant experience to life.
Whether you're spending an hour or half a day exploring, Ellis Island offers an unforgettable journey through one of the most important chapters in American history.
Access to Ellis Island and the National Museum of Immigration is included with every Statue City Cruises ticket.
Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is home to engaging exhibits, personal stories, photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays that trace the immigrant experience from arrival through becoming an American.
Visitors can explore highlights including:
- The Great Hall (Registry Room), where millions of immigrants underwent inspection.
- Permanent and rotating museum exhibits exploring immigration past and present.
- Historic artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings brought to America by immigrants.
- Interactive exhibits that help tell the stories of the people who passed through Ellis Island.
Some museum exhibits may be temporarily closed due to preservation work or exhibit updates. Visit this page for the latest status on exhibit updates.
Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour
Go beyond the museum with the Hard Hat Tour, an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience through the unrestored Ellis Island Hospital Complex.
Led by expert guides, this 90-minute tour explores the historic hospital buildings where immigrants received medical examinations and treatment before entering the United States. Along the way, you'll visit hospital wards, operating rooms, infectious disease facilities, and other preserved spaces that have remained largely untouched for decades.
The Hard Hat Tour requires a dedicated Hard Hat Tour ticket, which includes everything in General Admission plus a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the unrestored Ellis Island Hospital Complex.
Records Discovery Center
Could your ancestors have passed through Ellis Island? Nearly 40% of Americans can trace at least one ancestor to Ellis Island.
Visit the Records Discovery Center to search millions of historic passenger arrival records and ship manifests, uncover your family's immigration story, and explore your Ellis Island connections. Personalized genealogy assistance is available for an additional fee.
Ranger-Led Programs & Self-Guided Audio Tours
Enhance your visit with free National Park Service programs offered throughout the day. Self-guided audio tours are available for pickup inside the museum, while ranger-led programs meet at the museum information desk and explore the history of Ellis Island, immigration, and the people who passed through its halls.
Continue Exploring
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