Statue of Liberty Guide
Liberty Enlightening the World: A Symbol of Freedom Guide
Welcome to the Statue of Liberty, an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy, standing tall on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. This colossal neoclassical sculpture, a gift from France to the United States, represents Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty. A visit to the Statue of Liberty is a must for any traveler to New York City, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline and a powerful reminder of the ideals upon which the United States was founded. The Statue of Liberty's history is deeply intertwined with the relationship between France and the United States. Conceived by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the statue was designed to commemorate the alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution. The statue was completed in France in 1884 and shipped to New York in 1885. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886, becoming an instant symbol of hope and opportunity for immigrants arriving in America. The statue has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, ensuring its continued presence as a beacon of liberty. Visitors can take a ferry to Liberty Island and explore the grounds surrounding the statue. You can visit the Statue of Liberty Museum, which details the history and construction of the statue. For those who book in advance, you can climb to the crown for panoramic views (reservations are essential and made well in advance). The ferry also stops at Ellis Island, the former immigration station, where you can learn about the millions of immigrants who passed through its doors seeking a new life in America. While on Liberty Island, you can enjoy a picnic with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
Transportation
To reach the Statue of Liberty, take the ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan or Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. **From Manhattan:** Take the 1 or 4/5 subway lines to South Ferry, or the R/W to Whitehall Street. From there, it's a short walk to Battery Park. **From New Jersey:** Take the PATH train to Exchange Place or Hoboken, then transfer to the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail to Liberty State Park.
Opening Hours
Varies seasonally, check the official National Park Service website.
Ticket Price
Ferry tickets range from $24.50 for adults, $12 for children (4-12), and $18 for seniors (62+). Crown access requires a separate reservation and is included in the ferry ticket price.