Closest Airports to the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty sits on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Three major airports serve the region, all within ~30 km:

1. Newark Liberty International (EWR) — Often Closest

• Distance to Battery Park (ferry departure): 16 km (10 mi)
• Time: 20–35 min by car (tunnel); 40 min by AirTrain + PATH
• Advantage: United hub, often cheaper, less congestion than JFK/LGA

2. LaGuardia (LGA) — Closest to Manhattan

• Distance: 13 km (8 mi) to Battery Park
• Time: 25–45 min (traffic dependent); no rail link (bus + subway)
• Advantage: Domestic focus, new Terminal B, closest to Midtown

3. John F. Kennedy International (JFK) — Global Gateway

• Distance: 26 km (16 mi) to Battery Park
• Time: 45–75 min (Van Wyck/BQE); 60 min AirTrain + subway (A/E/J/Z)
• Advantage: Most international flights, OneWorld/Star hubs, AirTrain to subway

Ferry to Liberty Island

• Depart: Battery Park (Manhattan) or Liberty State Park (NJ)
• Operator: Statue Cruises (only authorized)
• Security screening: Airport-style. Book crown/reserve tickets months ahead.

Pro Tip

If visiting Statue of Liberty first upon arrival: EWR → AirTrain → PATH to World Trade Center → walk to Battery Park is often fastest and most reliable. LGA requires bus+subway or expensive taxi. JFK is best if you're staying in Brooklyn/Queens or have international connections.