Step beyond the public areas of Ellis Island and explore parts of the historic hospital complex that remain largely untouched by time. Led by an expert guide, the fully guided Hard Hat Tour provides exclusive access to unrestored buildings where visitors can experience a fascinating chapter of America's immigration story that few ever get to see.

Choose between the standard Hard Hat Tour or the Early Bird Hard Hat Tour. The Early Bird experience offers the same exclusive access to the Ellis Island Hospital Complex with the added benefit of arriving before the general public, allowing for a more intimate experience with fewer visitors.

Hard Hat Tour tickets include everything included with General Admission, plus guided access to the Ellis Island Hospital Complex.

What's Included with a Hard Hat Tour Ticket?

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Your Hard Hat Tour ticket includes all General Admission benefits, plus access to one of the most unique and exclusive experiences available on Ellis Island.

General Admission Includes:

• Round-trip ferry transportation from New York or New Jersey
• Access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island
• Admission to the Statue of Liberty Museum
• Admission to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
• Self-guided audio tours available in 12 languages

ⓘ Please note: The Hard Hat Tour ticket does not include access inside the Statue of Liberty monument.

‎Explore with the National Park Service

Once on Liberty Island, National Park Service Rangers are available throughout the grounds and museums to answer questions, share stories, and help bring the history of the Statue of Liberty to life. Free Ranger-Led Tours are offered daily on Liberty Island. Visit the information desk upon arrival for tour schedules and sign-up details.

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Traveling with children?

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Stop by a Junior Ranger Station where kids can complete activities and earn an official Junior Ranger badge.

What Will I See on the Hard Hat Tour?

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The Hard Hat Tour takes visitors through several historic areas of the Ellis Island Hospital Complex that are not accessible to the general public.

Depending on operational conditions and preservation requirements, highlights may include:

• The Laundry Building
• Infectious Disease Wards
• Kitchens and Service Areas
• Medical Examination Spaces
• The Mortuary (Morgue)
• Outdoor Courtyards and Connecting Passageways

Along the way, your guide will share stories of the immigrants, doctors, nurses, and staff who passed through these buildings and helped shape Ellis Island's history.