Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Visiting the Statue of Liberty requires advance planning—this is not a walk-up attraction. The National Park Service manages access via a concession ferry system with strict security and capacity controls.
Daily (except Thanksgiving, Dec 25, Jan 1): 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry to pedestal/crown).
Ferry departure window: First boats ~8:30–9:00 AM from Battery Park (NYC) and Liberty State Park (NJ). Last departure from Liberty Island: 3:30 PM (return by 4:30 PM).
Seasonal extensions: Summer (late May–early Sept) may add 30–60 minutes. Check nps.gov/stli for current schedule.
General Admission (Grounds only): ~$25 adult. Includes ferry, audio tour, museum access. No pedestal/crown.
Pedestal Reserve: ~$25 + $3 reservation fee. Access to pedestal observation deck (10 stories up). Limited daily quantity.
Crown Reserve: ~$25 + $3 fee. **Book 4–6 months ahead.** 162-step climb (no elevator), narrow spiral, 25-person max per group. Strict screening.
Security screening: Airport-style (magnetometer, bag X-ray). No large bags, tripods, weapons, food/drink (except water/medical). Allow 60+ minutes pre-ferry.
Departure points: Battery Park (Manhattan) — most convenient for NYC visitors. Liberty State Park (Jersey City) — more parking, fewer crowds.
Ellis Island: Same ferry stops at both. Allow 2–3 hours combined.
Accessibility: Pedestal has elevator; Crown does not. Audio tours in 12 languages. ASL tours by reservation.
First ferry = shortest lines, best light for photos. Weekdays < weekends. Shoulder seasons (Apr–May, Sept–Oct) balance weather and crowds. Crown tickets: set calendar alert for release date (usually 4 months out). No refunds for missed ferries.