Updated: 12/25/2019
Visiting the Statue of Liberty had always been a goal of mine. She’s my favorite New York City landmark and my favorite color. She was a gift from France and remains a powerful symbol of freedom, democracy, hope and the American dream: reading books alone on your private island while wearing nothing but a sheet and a crown. Throw in that perfect pouty-lip and the fact that this 130-year-old babe doesn’t look a day over 28 and that about sums up my life goals.
Being a child of the ’80s, my first memory of learning about the Statue of Liberty takes place not in an elementary school classroom, but instead in front of the television–seeing her walk through New York Harbor on the way to the Manhattan Museum of Art with the help of American soul singer-songwriter Jackie Wilson. That remains, to this day, my very favorite scene from Ghostbusters 2.
VISITING THE STATUE OF LIBERTY
As much as I’d dreamed of seeing her up close, I passed up the opportunity the first five or so times I visited New York City mainly because visiting the Statue of Liberty requires a level of planning you just don’t possess in your 20s. For a brief period in my life all planning resources were delegated to boozy birthday weekends and putting Halloween costumes together. Now, at 33, just gimme a sheet, a crown and a Twix bar and we’ll call it a night.
Also at 33 I’ve now visited the Statue of Liberty twice in two years and can officially say I love her more now than ever. Fulfilling childhood fantasies should always play out this way and I’m happy to report this one did. It’s like finally meeting your favorite celebrity and not only do they turn out to really be as hilarious and friendly as you’d always hoped, they also ask if you wanna grab some drinks. You agree all calm and cool-like and they invite all their super fun celebrity friends and you all become instant BFFL. You look simply fabulous later on TMZ and they can’t find a single mean thing to say about you. Visiting the Statue of Liberty was just like that for me… only my dad was there.
Did Jackie Wilson or the music video for Michael Jackson’s “Black or White” have a similar lasting effect on you? If so, allow me to help all of your childhood dreams come true. You can have both an incredible time visiting the Statue of Liberty and a kickass Halloween costume in the same year.
DO KNOW THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF TICKETS WHEN BOOKING
I didn’t. Not my first time anyway–the sole reason I only made it as far as Lady Liberty’s feet. That’ll be funny in a minute…
Statuecruises.com is the official ticketing site for visiting the Statue of Liberty and I can’t emphasize enough the need to reserve your tickets in advance. They do sell day-of tickets on site if it’s absolutely necessary but really, do you actually enjoy mobs of tired, pissed off tourists and standing in line all the live-long day? Because if you’re the type who longs to be in the thick of the huffing and puffing, constantly complaining, blaming the ticket-taker, the candlestick-maker, and everyone but themselves for their unfortunate lack of planning, then get outta my face; you’re in the wrong place. I would not like them here or there. I would not like them anywhere. I should absolutely write children’s books.
So for starters, you need to answer this question: How far in advance are you booking these tickets? Are you visiting the Statue of Liberty tomorrow? Oh hey, look at that–you don’t have a choice. Planning a trip six months from now? Well… now, you’ve got some thinkin’ to do! You should also start working on that tan…
There are, technically, three ticket options but in my opinion really only two. (Options 2 and 3 are the same price so obviously you should go with the package that offers more, even if you don’t think you’re going to use all the benefits. If you were offered two identically priced cable packages but one included free HBO, you’d choose the one with free HBO, right? Even if watching a girl wear other people’s faces is super gross? YES–because Game of Thrones is AWESOME.)
OPTION 1: the Crown Reserve. The Crown Reserve ticket gets you into Lady Liberty’s crown and everything on down. Start by admiring her brain–the way all women should be explored. Even the ones that wear togas. You’ll have full access to the Statue’s crown and pedestal, the grounds and museums of both Liberty and Ellis Islands, an audio guide and round-trip ferry service all for $21.50 (or less–how old are you?).
OPTION 2: the Pedestal Reserve. The Pedestal Reserve ticket gets you up to Lady Liberty’s big man feet and no further. She’s a classy lady after all–she doesn’t just let everyone inside her. You’ll have full access to the Statue’s pedestal, the grounds and museums of both Liberty and Ellis Islands, an audio guide and round-trip ferry service all for $18.50 (or less).
OPTION 3: the Reserve. Nothing higher than ground level for you and certainly no complimentary HBO. The Reserve ticket gets you access to both Liberty and Ellis Islands, an audio guide and round-trip ferry service for the same price as the Pedestal Reserve so… just get the Pedestal Reserve, seriously. It really is neat up by her feet. (Lock up your children! My rhymes–coming soon to a crib near you.)
If you’re simply pressed for time but still want to see the Statue of Liberty up close and/or check out Ellis Island to see which ancestors you can blame for moving your family to North Dakota or the Jersey Shore long, long ago–the New York CityPASS includes a Statue of Liberty reserve ticket. For more about the CityPASS, see this post and this post.
Need a visual? Here’s a fancy infographic I spent an embarrassing amount of time on last night…
A note about purchasing tickets: You’ll be asked to show your ID a handful of times while visiting the Statue of Liberty and the name on each visitor’s ticket must match the name on that person’s ID. Capiche? Besides, isn’t getting carded after 30 also part of the American dream?
DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO BOOK
I’m a hardcore procrastinator, yes, but when you’ve longed to channel your inner Peter Venkman as long as I have, you make exceptions.
There are a limited number of tickets sold to visit the Statue of Liberty, fewest of which are the Crown Reserves. These tickets to the hottest headpiece in town (upstaging even whatever Lady Gaga is sporting this month) sell out months in advance. Consider the Statue of Liberty the Adele of national monuments–only seeing this lady live won’t cost you a year’s rent and the naming rights to your first-born child. “Hi, meet my daughter, Bank of America Smith.”
WHEN TO BOOK:
Crown Reserve tickets: 3-4 MONTHS in advance.
Pedestal Reserve tickets: 3-4 weeks in advance.
Reserve tickets: 3-4 days if you must but seriously, go with the Pedestal. And watch Game of Thrones.
DO GO INTO THE CROWN
To me, going up to the crown is the whole experience. And since they don’t give out crowns to spelling bee runners-up or science fair honorable mentions this is the closest I’ll ever get to actually wearing one.
If you’re physically capable, not the least bit acro- or claustrophobic and have enough advance notice YOU MUST DO THIS. It’s not every day you get to climb a human-shaped building. And men, you’ve always wanted to know what goes on inside a woman’s head so now’s your chance! But don’t let the hollowed-out space and dim lighting up there fool you–those Birkenstocks tell me she can totally kick your asses.
I was greatly impressed by my experience visiting the Statue of Liberty–a statement not meant to be dumbed down by my sheer awe of Jimmy Fallon’s impression of Jerry Seinfeld and people who can open jars of salsa on the first try. My time in the crown exceeded all expectations, no easy feat for someone whose signature memory of this monument involves her walking through Manhattan, crushing cop cars and the hopes and dreams of one Vigo the Carpathian.
I had imagined a steady sweaty stream of tourists climbing to the crown and down, being tightly packed into her hollow head like John Cena into a fitted button-up. Instead, I was incredibly surprised to find only 10-15 people are allowed into the crown at one time, with the place all to ourselves for a period of about 20 minutes. Rather than being given just the chance to pass through in an upsettingly subdued tourist conga line, we were free to take our time with photos and had two guides inside the crown all to ourselves. They answered everyone’s questions and spent time teaching us all the literal ins and outs of the Statue of Liberty that you just can’t learn watching late ’80s comedies. When everyone felt they’d had enough time inside the crown, we collectively made our way down. Cha cha cha!
It was such an interesting, intimate experience and not at all like you’d expect. It was definitely less tourist-attraction and more National Park. Less feeling the hot breath of a stranger on the back of your neck and more like finding a $20 bill in last year’s windbreaker. The only thing missing was Jackie Wilson lifting me higher and higher. I will NOT forget my Walkman next time.
A note about visiting the crown: There is no elevator to the crown. From the pedestal you must climb an additional 162 steps to the top. Like any good woman, Lady Liberty doesn’t make it easy for just anyone to get into her head. She utilizes a narrow staircase, a maze of cast iron framework and humor as a defense mechanism.
but DON’T IF YOU ARE SHAQUILLE O’NEAL
162 steps may sound like small potatoes, sure, but keep in mind this is up a steep, narrow staircase with very low overhead that puts all Italian church towers to shame. I’m 5’4″ and this stairway still presented a challenge. But to be fair, you could substitute almost any other word for “stairway” and it’d still be true in my case.
As you’ll see in the pictures, I couldn’t even fit one of my size 7 shoes entirely on the steps. I kept thinking of Shaq and his 7’1″ body, his size 22 shoe, and how many Icy Hot patches he would need after this. It just couldn’t be done. Not even a genie from a magic boombox could help him. So to sum up: corkscrew stairs, tip-toeing, hunching over. You’re basically every cartoon character who ever tried to sneak up on someone.
KAZAAM!
DO KNOW WHERE YOU’RE GOING BEFORE YOU SET OUT
This sounds obvious but on our first time visiting the Statue of Liberty we almost missed our reservation time after thinking we’d “be able to figure it out when we got down there”–my modus operandi.
The white tent-like building behind Battery Park is your destination–the circus inside not unlike the interior of a clown car. But before you can enter the big-white-top you must pick up your tickets from will call. And since my readers are the smartest around, you’ve got reservations so you get to walk past all the clowns and the borderline freak show that is the line of people trying to buy same-day tickets.
When you arrive at Battery Park, head to Castle Clinton to pick up your reserved tickets. Don’t get it confused with… oh, nope, it’s the only walled castle in the park. If you see some jerk dressed as a poor reproduction of the Statue of Liberty aggressively asserting himself into people’s photos while blowing a whistle, you’ve come to the right place. Will call for reserved tickets is at WINDOW 6 only.
Got your tickets? Get in line. (I believe they have the same instructions down at traffic court.)
I can’t tell you where that will be exactly since it all depends on when you are visiting the Statue of Liberty. All I can say is see the above, extremely informative and well-made photo.
On my first visit, a Friday in early September, my friend and I walked right into the white tent, albeit briskly and sweatier than I prefer. On my most recent visit, the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend, the line started where I show the line sometimes starting.
A few notes on the line:
- It moves quickly. So it’s wrapped around the building? You’ve got a reservation; you’re fine. You won’t be in it for more than a couple of minutes. Just avoid eye contact with the jerk in the green toga and it’ll be over before you can say, “Get outta my face! I don’t want to take a photo with you!”
- Don’t get in the line until your reserved time. I know, it’s long. You think that by the time you get to the front of it, 30 minutes will have gone by and you’ll be set. BUT there are line attendants and if you’re in that line even five minutes before your reservation, you’ll have to get out.
- I told you–it moves fast. Chill out. There will still be plenty of time to take that photo of yourself holding an imaginary torch in front of the statue.
DON’T BE FOOLED BY THE PEOPLE OUTSIDE THE SUBWAY
When exiting the South Ferry subway station chances are you’ll be bombarded with people trying to sell you tickets for visiting the Statue of Liberty. They will be in your face, shouting, trying to block your way. Think: Hell on Earth for germaphobes and introverts.
Just because these people wear vests with words on them doesn’t mean they don’t want to rob you. They’ll show you their “credentials” but you’re smart–you know that any ol’ Joe Schmo with a printer and access to the laminator at FedExOffice can get “credentials.” It’s called a hustle. It’s also how I ended up backstage at an Incubus concert that one time.
They’ll tell you the Statue of Liberty is sold out and the only way you can get tickets is through them. The dirty weirdos on the street. Outside the subway.
You’ll push past them–you ain’t no fool. You’ll try to ignore them but, after they continue to follow you down the street, finally say something like, “I have reservations, leave me alone!” Then they’ll scream at you for a good ten seconds and call you a “bitch” as you walk away.
I’m going to let you in on a not-so-little secret: no official employee of the American National Park Service would ever call you a bitch for already having tickets to their park. These people are scammers who make, I can only imagine, shitloads of money off gullible tourists. But you aren’t one of these.
There are numerous reports (and arrests) on this particular band of hooligans and you can find more information on this scam here. Don’t be dumb. Get your tickets straight from the tap. #anyonecanlaminate
DO BE PREPARED FOR AIRPORT-LIKE SECURITY… TWICE
Upon entering the big white tent you’ll be subjected to your first round of airport-like security screening. You travel; this is nothing new. Everything, in the bin. Pockets, empty. Shoes, off. Jackets, off. Belts, off. Pants, off.
Juuuust making sure you’re paying attention. Prepare for this to make not only yours but everyone else’s trip to the Statue of Liberty go a lot smoother.
- Leave backpacks and shopping bags at your hotel. These aren’t allowed inside the Statue of Liberty anyway. To enter the crown you are allowed only a small purse and a camera. Ladies, same goes for you.
- Don’t wear 45 gold bangles you’ll have to painstakingly remove one by one. AHEM, lady directly in front of me.
- Similarly, when your pal Mr. T asks to come along, do decline. But do so politely because he’s stronger than you, sucka!
- Don’t get redressed right there in front of the metal detector. Move. Along.
On Liberty Island you will repeat the process before actually entering the Statue of Liberty. An important piece of advice for the second security screening: get in front of Mrs. T this time. I pity the fool that ends up behind her.
DON’T RIDE INSIDE THE FERRY — VENTURE OUT
But it’s cold / hot, I know. Weather, right?
The ferry to and from the Statue of Liberty is not simply a means to an end. I hate such clichéd phrases as “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey” and all that other inspirational poppycock, but in this case it’s true. Well, partly. It’s not like you’re just going to ride the boat to and fro and call it a day.
Consider your ferry ride the free sightseeing cruise that it is. From the outside of the top level you’ll be treated to fantastic views of Lower Manhattan and all around the Statue of Liberty. I’m telling you, she has no bad sides. (Except from underneath where she kinda looks like Jabba the Hutt. ⇣⇣⇣
Board the boat and snag one of the outer, top level spots if you can. Don’t stay inside, behind the green glass where it’s warm / cool / smells like hotdogs. These are the same people who are probably going to pay for a sightseeing cruise later on in the week. For three times as much. From the crooks outside the subway.
DO KNOW THERE’S AN ELEVATOR TO THE PEDESTAL IF YOU NEED IT
From ground level to the top of the pedestal it is 231 steps that I encourage you to climb because… fitness. However, there is an elevator to the pedestal should you need it. It is clearly marked, located beneath the pedestal behind the giant torch, attended by an expert button-pusher, and completely judgment-free.
It is only from the pedestal to the crown that you must climb stairs. This is where the Shaq portion of the ride comes to an abrupt halt.
DON’T LET THE PARK RANGER FORGET TO GIVE YOU THE CROWN WRISTBAND
In order to enter the Statue of Liberty, you’ll have to check in with a National Park ranger before entering the second security screening where you’ve hopefully left Mrs. T in a cloud of your dust. He or she will compare your tickets with your IDs and, if you have a Crown Reserve ticket, SHOULD give you the wristband you’ll need to get past the pedestal.
Enter: brain fart.
Our ranger never gave us the wristbands we didn’t know we even needed. This could have been very bad and time-consuming for us (read: exiting the park completely, waiting in line to reenter and having to go through security screening again) but instead, thanks to some sweet-talking and eyelash-batting (read: begging and pleading), resulted in the four of us being personally escorted to the crown. The Statue of Liberty staff is nothing if not accommodating but had this been a busier day there’s no way this would have happened.
If you have Crown tickets, make sure the park ranger at the desk inside the Liberty Island security tent next to the gift shop gives. you. a. wristband.
DO WATCH YOUR HEAD
All the way from the pedestal to the inside of the crown and back down the safety of your noggin is in jeopardy. Once you get to the staircase, just assume the position: Elmer Fudd during wabbit season; Wile E. Coyote trying to catch the Roadrunner off-guard; the Grinch stealing Christmas.
Everyone was knocking their head inside the crown which is why, as you’ll see, they’ve covered the worst parts in foam padding. Noodles for noodles. You’ll get that later.
DON’T UNDERUTILIZE THE GUIDES
As I mentioned earlier, at the top of the crown there are two guides that know everything there is to know about the Statue of Liberty. It won’t be as entertaining as this episode of Drunk History but at least you’ll know your facts are straight.
They’ll spend the time show-and-tell-ing you fun facts you’d never know otherwise like how her shell is only the width of two pennies pressed together and whether or not she’s naked under that toga. She is French, you know that.
The Statue of Liberty is not so much a tourist attraction as it is a member of the National Park Services. These people love their jobs and above all want you to learn and enjoy your time. Come with questions! Come with jokes! Come with minimal jewelry!
DO TAKE 1,000 PHOTOS OF THE STATUE OF LIBERTY
You’re going to see Lady Liberty from just about every possible angle and girl got it goin’ on! She just can’t take a bad picture–take advantage of this perfect artistic subject.
She’s beauty and she’s grace. She’s Miss United States!
DON’T FORGET ABOUT ELLIS ISLAND!
Between the years of 1892 and 1924 Ellis Island was the chief gateway into the United States for over 100 million immigrants. To put this in perspective, that’s about the same number of New Yorkers trying to get you to go to their comedy show.
After boarding the ferry on Liberty Island, the next (and only other) stop is Ellis Island. If you wish to check it out, get off here. (Don’t hold your breath for a private tour with Will Smith though.) If not, the ferry will continue on to Manhattan where you started this adventure with a guy in a wig freestyling on the ukulele.
Access to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is included in the Statue of Liberty ticket price and you can read my guide to visiting Ellis Island in a hurry here ⇣⇣⇣
I’m going to end this post with this link to the music video for 1993’s “(I Know I Got) Skillz” by Shaquille O’Neal in which he raps, “…you better than Shaq-tack, fool, shut up liar–I lean on the Statue of Liberty when I get tired.”
Point. Proven. (mic drop)
MORE INFO
Heading to New York City? Find great places to stay here.
But where do I recommend? Either of the Pod Hotels or the Hilton Midtown.
Want to see more of NYC? The New York CityPASS saves you 41% on the city’s top attractions.
Is there a guidebook I recommend? Absolutely — this one.
What else have I covered in the area? Check out these posts.
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This has been such a fun read. Didn’t think at all that I might need to buy a ticket for the Crown in advance. Fortunately I scored one of the last two Pedestals on January 4th, the day before my departure. Thanks for all the information! 😀
Thank you Nelson! I didn’t think of that either when I first went that’s how I got stuck on the pedestal. But I’m glad you were able to grab some pedestal tickets on such short notice. Have a great time!
This was wonderful and so helpful!! We are visiting NYC in two weeks so we’ve already missed our opportunity to go up in the crown. Wah wah — next time! I did want to ask you how long should you factor into your day for this excursion to visit both Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island? Sorry if you talking about it in your post!
Hey Brittany – Thank you, glad you liked it! I didn’t get to go to the crown my first time either. How long will really depend on when you go, i.e. how crowded it is. My first time there were zero people there so getting on the boat, checked in, etc. was a BREEZE. But the second time required waiting in big crowds. So for the round trip ferry ride + the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty + Ellis Island, you could literally spend a full day there. There are so many museums and parts to see. However, I’ve never had a full day to spend so it typically takes me around three hours to see all I want of the Statue + Ellis Island, not including the short ferry trip.
I also wrote a post on how to visit Ellis Island in a hurry – not sure if you saw that one. The link is here:
https://www.mywanderlustylife.com/visiting-ellis-island-in-a-hurry/ Hope that helps!
Great content! The Statue of Liberty truly is a sign of hope and freedom plus loved the tips you gave for touring this beautiful statue.
Such an informative post, thank you!
Thank you Mel! Have fun at the Statue of Liberty!
Thank you for this useful information! Unfortunately, the crown is already sold out for our trip in May! 🙁 Do they sell any crown tickets day-of? Or would it be too much of a mess to even try that — should I just get pedestal reserve?
Also – do you have any idea how strict they are on the 4’ft tall requirement?
Thanks!!
Hi Kristen! Such a bummer! And no, according to the Statue Cruises website they don’t sell any same-day crown tickets (I’m guessing for security reasons) and they don’t have a wait list, unfortunately. I would say to definitely go ahead and get pedestal tickets. Climbing the pedestal is still really interesting and you get great views of the Statue of Liberty and the city.
About the 4-ft requirement, I have no idea how strict they are on that (no children myself lol) – but that only applies to the crown so it shouldn’t affect you anyway. 🙂
Have a great time in NYC!
“I kept thinking of Shaq and his 7’1″ body, his size 22 shoe, and how many Icy Hot patches he would need after this. It just couldn’t be done. Not even a genie from a magic boombox could help him.” OMG I DIED This post was so informative and helpful. Unfortunately I don’t think I’ll have time to visit her on this trip, so I’ll just have to wave from the shore. Next time I’ll plan ahead and not go on a weekend when it’s 30 degrees.
Haha – yeah to go to the top takes a wee bit of planning but it’s still worth going to the island if you’ve got time!
This is an amazing post. It was really helpful for me figuring out what to do for the statue. Fantastic article with plenty of great advice…thanks for sharing this fully wonderful piece! Loved your amazing pictures also…Thanks again for a great resource article!
Thanks so much William, glad I could help! Have a great trip!
This is an amazing post. It was really helpful for me figuring out what to do for the statue. As much as I want to do the crown, I will probably do the pedestal since I am not a small person. Thanks for the info!
Thanks so much Izz! The pedestal is definitely still worth a visit and you won’t regret it at all – the views from there are so cool! And if you really want to do the crown (and money isn’t a factor), one idea may be to still buy a crown ticket and just make a game-time decision as to whether or not you’d feel comfortable climbing up there. Just because you buy the crown ticket doesn’t mean you HAVE to go up there – your ticket would still be good for a pedestal visit. Just a thought 🙂
Therese Okoumou brought me here… I thank her, because I know a lot more about this NP Landmark, and what to do (and *not* do) should I ever get chance to tour NYC. I’ll go to the pedestal for sure. Don’t know about the crown, as I’m a senior now. But, in 1965, I did climb up all of the stairs of the Washington Monument — but took the elevator down though.. When I see the Statue of Liberty, my first thoughts are to Charlton Heston and that iconic scene from The Planet of the Apes.
Thanks for stopping by Rover! I love the Statue of Liberty and can’t wait to climb the Washington Monument someday!
Hello! Quick question: if our reserve time is 8 am, would they still let us use the ticket if we’re late? Say, 15-30 min late? We’re renting car that morning to get to the NJ departure point, but we may not make it right at 8 am.
Hi Jenny! On the Statue of Liberty FAQ page it says: “Your ticket is only good for the specific time and date printed on the ticket. If you are unable to make your trip, you may cancel or reschedule (based on availability) if you call at least 24 hours in advance (201) 432-6321.” — I have had to call them a few times to ask questions and they’ve always been very friendly and helpful. I’m not positive as to the answer to your question so I’d definitely give them a call! Hope it all works out for you!
Hi Ashley, thanks for such and informative and fun post! I found your page while doing research for our upcoming trip and I appreciate the work it takes to make such a post!
Great Post! My family and I will be visiting the Statue in early June and I secured the Crown tickets early because of this site. Just curious, how long does the wait time take from the time you pick up your will call tickets and make it through security until you are on the ferry headed to Liberty Island? Our reserved ticket is set for 9:00AM.
Thanks again for such a great post!
Thanks Lance! That’s so nice to hear. So first you’ll pick up your reserved tickets at will call (I think I was in line for will call all of five minutes) then get in the line to go through the security tent. If your reserved ticket time is 9:00, then 9:00 is when you’ll get in the security line. (I realize they’ve made it super confusing.) If you try to get in the line at 8:30, they’ll kick you out (but try anyway in case they’ve changed it?). They don’t let you get into the security line until about 10 minutes before your reserved time. There are plenty of line attendants that will check your ticket as you get in line and let you know if it’s too early or not. So, depending on how crowded it is, if you reserved time in 9:00, you might not actually be on the ferry until 9:30? My first time there was no one there and we got right on but my last time during Thanksgiving weekend the crowds were insane. As long as you’re in line for your reserved time, that’s all that matters. Have fun!
I LOLed several times. Thanks for the tips!
Haha, thanks to you, too!
thanks for the very nice article. but I just wanna confirm if I purchased reserved pedestal ticket is it also possible to go to the grounds of liberty even of I did not purhased the reserve tickets just for a nice background photo of the Lady Liberty so that I can capture the whole statue. thanks.
Thanks Adrian! You’re right – with a pedestal ticket you can get to the island and up on top of her pedestal. The only place you can’t go with the pedestal ticket is up into the crown.
Fantastic article with plenty of great advice – thanks! Loved your pictures also – did you take any funny forced perspective shots like holding the torch or SOL poses? 🙂 Lastly – any thoughts on the hard-hat tour. I know alot for one day – and I’m sure my family would prefer crown or pedestal vs abandoned hospital laundry and hospital – what are your thoughts? Thanks again for a great resource article!
Thanks Bink! I didn’t get any forced perspective shots but it’s definitely HILARIOUS to watch all the other people doing it!
About the hard-hat tour, I’ve actually never been to Ellis Island. I’ve never had time on all my trips to the Statue of Liberty but it’s on my agenda for next time. I looked at the hard-hat tour and it sounds AWESOME. I agree that it may not be for *everyone* but I think it sounds really cool and I’m interested in it myself! (Also, I read that you have to be 13+ years old to do the tour, so not sure how old your family is but something to note.) Regardless, definitely do the crown tour of the SOL if you’ve got time to book it!
Hi Ashley! Our family will be in NY the end of May and this article is SO helpful!! Thank you! We plan to buy top of the crown tickets our first full day. Your photos are amazing! Do you mind me asking what camera you used?
Thanks Bethany! So glad I could help! Crown tickets are definitely the way to go. First tour of the day should be perfect! I use the Olympus OM-D EM-5 Mark II (a mouthful, I know). I wrote a post on it with a lot more photo examples here: https://www.mywanderlustylife.com/best-travel-photography-gear/
Enjoy Lady Liberty!
Awesome! Thank you so much for the link, Ashely!
You’re welcome! Have a great trip!
Hi Ashley!! We are planning a trip to the Statue and Ellis Island in November. We have a 4 yo and a 10 mo… I know we cannot do the Crown Tour, but I’m wondering if it’s worth the Pedestal tour. The Reserve leaves at 10 a.m. and the Pedestal 11 a.m. I have always wanted an up close view of the Statue, but want to have enough time to do both in the same day. Your advise is appreciated… go with the same cost for an hour less time?
Hi Krista! I’d say the Pedestal is ABSOLUTELY worth the visit–especially if you’ve always wanted a close-up view. I love going up the crown but the views from the pedestal are my favorite! You definitely won’t regret it. And visiting the Statue of Liberty won’t take very long at all so you’ll have plenty of time at Ellis Island. Plus, with the pedestal ticket (that’s the same price as the reserve anyway) you get to go inside the base of the Statue and see all the cool historic stuff in there too.
I love your Do This, Not That posts for NYC, so helpful for when we come over Thanksgiving!
Thank you! So glad I could help! Thanksgiving is such a great time to visit NYC. I’ll be there again this year. 🙂 Have a great time!
I’ve been told your legs have to be covered and you must wear enclosed shoes to go inside. We are going to to the crown, is this the case?
Hi Tara! Well… I’ve never heard such a thing. I went up to the pedestal during a hot September in shorts with no problem, then up to the crown in November so obviously I was wearing long pants and boots – but I don’t remember ever hearing or seeing anything about a dress code.
I just found this (screenshot below) on the official Statue of Liberty website but that’s all. They suggest closed-toe shoes, mostly for the boat ride I think. The staircase up to the crown is super tight and steep so flip-flops probably aren’t a good idea anyway since you could totally lose one or trip. But I don’t see why you would need your legs covered. Especially if you’re visiting in the summer because it is HOT up there. I’ve called the Statue of Liberty ticket office for things before and they’ve always been extremely friendly and helpful, so if it still bothers you I wouldn’t hesitate calling them to double check. Good luck! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/2c6a2760ca59c8b671147d4dd5a36612053a7c16302dcd6b5b3158d5e7ec0f18.png
Such a complete guide. I’ve been to New York for at least 4 times. But only once I took a ferry to Staten Island and that the closest distance I was from the Statue of Liberty. I even couldn’t imagine it would be that difficult to get there.
Thank you Tom! You should definitely take a trip to LIBERTY Island next time and see her up close – it’s quite an experience!
I live about 40 minutes from New York, and while I have been to the Statue of Liberty, I have never been in the crown (it was closed the last time I went). I will have to visit soon! I definitely recommend Ellis Island the next time you visit! I also suggest Top of the Rock or One World Trade observatory!
Yes I can’t wait to visit Ellis Island next time! I hope you get up in the crown sometime — it really is a neat experience, as long as you can remember to book ahead!
I had no idea visiting the Statue of Liberty would be such an endeavour! I’ve never been to New York, but we’re planning a city trip there this year. Good to know I’ll have to reserve a ticket for the Crown right now!
Oh awesome – so excited for you! Yes, definitely book that crown ticket now!
I had no idea you had to reserve that far in advance! This was my absolute favorite line : Like any good woman, Lady Liberty doesn’t make it easy for just anyone to get into her head. Hilarious!
Haha, thank you!!
What a fantastic post, both photos and info. I have never gone up the statue…maybe next time!
Thank you Corinne! Yes, you definitely should!
I have been to New York several times but have never been to the Statue of Liberty! This is such a great resource! I’m going to make sure to go next time I am in New York!
Thank you! It’s my favorite and it’s so iconic–everyone should visit at least once.
Great and smart tips. Yes, the best ticket I’ve ever gotten was the Reserve… bummer but still cool. I’m so glad you ended with directing to Ellis Island, which I enjoyed more than Lady Liberty. Both are incredible though. “Cast iron bone structure…” brilliant.
Thank you! I am definitely going to visit Ellis Island on one of my next visits; it’s stupid I’ve missed it so many times.
What a detailed guide (and I loved your photos)! Like you, visiting the statue (*AND* NYC) has been a life-long dream of mine, but I’ve yet to make it to New York! I had no idea there were so many ticket options and it required so much planning, though! I’ll definitely come back when I’m about to go to the US!
Thanks so much, Vicky! I hope you make it to New York soon! And I don’t think a lot of people know about the planning making it harder to get crown tickets. Just don’t forget! 🙂
I have never read an entire blog post only about the Statue of Liberty and I must say that it’s amazing! Congrats for the job.
Super useful information and very clear described.
I have no plans so far to visit NY although I think it’s a place to visit once in a lifetime! See If I can manage to get there for NYEve and dance with Maria Carey 😛
Thank you Marina! …and I feel like MC is probably done with NYE performances haha!
Brilliant guide! New York is on my bucket list, can’t wait to go one day. And definitely to see this incredible lady! I had no idea you would need to book 3-4 months in advance to get to the top! So glad I have read this guide.
Thank you! I hope you get to visit–it’s one of my favorite cities and there’s so much to do. Yeah, not a lot of people know that and miss out!
Last time I was in NY I only had the chance to view the Statue of Liberty from a far distance, and this post really makes me want to go back! Such an informative post, and I love your photos! 🙂
Good, I hope you get to! And thank you very much – she’s very photogenic lol
I only ever got a chance to see Lady Liberty from the Staten Island ferry. It’s amazing that you had the opportunity to get up and close with her. I also love the Ghostbusters II reference as I was thinking the same thing as I was reading that paragraph.
Yes, it really is something completely different when you’re up close but good thing you got to see it at all!
Girl you made me laugh the whole way through this! Normally I find ‘how to’ posts like these so, so boring but I did not want this one to end! Can I just say: “reading books alone on your private island while wearing nothing but a sheet and a crown” – AMEN TO THAT! I’ve never been to New York. Hopefully will one day, and when that day comes you can be sure I’ll be coming back to this for all the practical info.
Haha, I’m so happy! I agree–I hate such boring blog posts so I try to make mine informative as well as entertaining. 🙂 Glad you loved it. And I hope you do get to NYC sometime! It’s a magical place.
This is really an informative post! I have saved your visual about the ticket types so that I’ll not end up purchasing too late. Recently I went to London and intended to visit the HP Warner Bros Studio but it turned out I’d need to book 3 months in advance! I’ve learned the hard lesson now and won’t repeat it for this amazing Statue of Liberty 😀
Haha, yeah unfortunately learning the hard way is the most effective! So funny that you said that because I was looking at the HP tour in London today to see what they’re schedule is like. They still have dates open for me so that’s a good sign!
Hahaha your photos, the rhymes and the Miss Congeniality meme totally did it for me! I cannot believe I haven’t been to the Statue of Liberty (Going as a 5 year old child does not count right? I barely remember even being there!). I need to re-visit and use all your amazing tips. I am totally going to “wear the crown, be the crown” b/c I am the crown.
Totally doesn’t count. You need to go again. 😉
And yeah, I was repeating that mantra during the entire writing of this. Wear the crown, be the crown, you are the crown!
Perfect, exactly what I needed now for our upcoming East coast Road Trip.I was thinking if it is really worth to go and see the Statue, since we are just three days in NYC, but now I am sure we will go. Thanks so much, interesting and very helpful – that’s how it should be 🙂
Oh good! I really hope you go! Reserve those crown tickets now! It really is worth it and totally doable with 3 days in NYC.