Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Optimize your time on the water. Learn how to navigate the ferries, beat the crowds, and pack correctly.
Getting there
Ferry options and terminal information.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal to St. George | 25 minutes | Free | Provides some of the best free views of the Statue of Liberty and lower Manhattan skyline. |
| Boat: Statue City Cruises from Battery Park (NY) or Liberty State Park (NJ) | 15-20 minutes | $25 | The only official ferry service providing landing access to Liberty and Ellis Islands. |
| Boat: NYC Ferry connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island | Varies by route | $4.00 | An excellent and affordable way to see the harbor and transit between waterfront neighborhoods. |
| Tour: Sightseeing harbor cruises (e.g., Circle Line, Classic Harbor Line) | 1 to 2.5 hours | $35 - $50+ | Guided boat tours offering narration on history, architecture, and the skyline. |
| Walk: Walking paths along The Battery or Brooklyn Bridge Park | 1 to 2 hours | Free | Offers panoramic views of the harbor and its islands from dry land. |
When to go
- J
- F
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- M
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- J
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- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
May through October provides the best weather for outdoor waterfront activities. Morning is the best time of day to take a ferry. Early departures help you avoid intense midday crowds and long security lines.
What to bring
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Security screening is mandatory for the monuments.
Expect airport-style security before boarding ferries to Liberty and Ellis Islands.
How the day runs
Suggested routes for your trip.
Visit the two most famous islands in the harbor.
- Battery Park
Arrive at Castle Clinton for security screening.
- Ferry Ride
Take Statue City Cruises to Liberty Island.
- Liberty Island
Explore the grounds and the Statue of Liberty Museum.
- Ellis Island
Take the ferry to the Immigration Museum.
- Return
Ride the ferry back to Manhattan.
Enjoy harbor views without strict monument security.
- The Battery
Walk the 25-acre park and see the monuments.
- Staten Island Ferry
Ride the free ferry for excellent skyline views.
- Return to Manhattan
Take the ferry back to Whitehall Terminal.
- Governors Island
Take the ferry to explore the 172-acre park.
- Outlook Hill
Rent a bike and see the Statue of Liberty.
Packing for the harbor
Always bring a windproof jacket or layers. Harbor breezes can be strong, even in summer. Wear comfortable walking shoes. You will walk a lot on the islands and in the parks.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to combat water glare. If you pick up reserved ferry tickets, you need a government-issued ID. Do not bring large bags to the monuments.
Easiest way to do it
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour with Reserved Ferry Entry
3 h to 5 h 4.8 (14,985)
- Skyline Views
- Statue of Liberty Museum
- Expert NYC Storyteller
- Immigration Museum Access
From$59per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where do ferries depart?
Statue City Cruises depart from Battery Park in New York and Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The Staten Island Ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan.
Is there a dress code?
There is no official dress code. However, you should dress for the weather. Wear layers and comfortable shoes. You will be walking outdoors frequently.
Can I bring food?
You can bring food and clear water bottles. However, you must empty reusable water bottles before entering the security screening for Liberty and Ellis Islands.