Plan Your Visit
Know Before You Go
Visitors to Liberty Island can explore the grounds, take in panoramic views, and learn about the Statue's history at the Statue of Liberty Museum. For a more immersive experience, you can climb to the Pedestal for a unique perspective, or ascend to the Crown with special access ticketing.
Most tours also include a stop at Ellis Island, where the Immigration Museum shares moving stories of those who passed through its halls, hoping to start a new life.
Security
For the safety of all guests, an airport-style security screening is required before boarding ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Food, Drink and Locker Accessibility
- Food and drink concessions and souvenirs are available aboard all of our vessels.
- Before accessing the Pedestal or Crown, visitors with backpacks, food, or drinks must use lockers (25¢ coin deposit required). Lockers are conveniently located before the monument security entrance and are reserved for ticket holders with Pedestal or Crown access.
What to Wear
To ensure a comfortable visit, please dress according to the weather conditions. This experience is both indoor and outdoor. Closed-toe shoes are recommended year-round—and required for the Hard Hat Tour.
Fall: Layers, Knits, Hats, Scarves
Winter: Layers, Wool, Hats, Scarves, Gloves
Spring: Light Jackets
Summer: Cotton, Linen, Sun Protection
Climate & Best Times to Visit the Statue of Liberty
If your schedule is flexible, choosing the season that best showcases New York City, New Jersey, and the Statue of Liberty can truly enhance your experience. Regardless of the season, it’s always wise to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Temperatures and forecasts can change daily.
In the winter (December to February), tourism slows down, making it an ideal time to visit if you prefer shorter lines, smaller crowds, and a more intimate tour experience.
With fewer visitors, there's a better chance of securing your preferred time slot, though the weather can be quite cold-average temperatures range from 27°F (2.8°C) to 39°F (3.9°C), and conditions can include snow, ice, and strong winds, especially on the water and island. Days are shorter, and ferry schedules may vary, so it's important to check in advance and dress warmly with a jacket, hat, and gloves.
Climate & Best Times to Visit the Statue of Liberty
If your schedule is flexible, choosing the season that best showcases New York City, New Jersey, and the Statue of Liberty can truly enhance your experience. Regardless of the season, it’s always wise to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Temperatures and forecasts can change daily.
In the winter (December to February), tourism slows down, making it an ideal time to visit if you prefer shorter lines, smaller crowds, and a more intimate tour experience.
With fewer visitors, there's a better chance of securing your preferred time slot, though the weather can be quite cold-average temperatures range from 27°F (2.8°C) to 39°F (3.9°C), and conditions can include snow, ice, and strong winds, especially on the water and island. Days are shorter, and ferry schedules may vary, so it's important to check in advance and dress warmly with a jacket, hat, and gloves.
Security
For the safety of all guests, an airport-style security screening is required before boarding ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend traveling light and avoiding any items that are restricted or prohibited—including large bags, sharp objects, weapons, and certain liquids. Please review the guidelines below to help expedite your entry.
- All persons and property are subject to search prior to boarding ferries. All items considered inappropriate or prohibited will be confiscated and retained by the United States Park Police.
- Visitors to the interior of the Statue of Liberty Monument undergo additional security screening upon entry inside the Statue. Note that security waits can be long to ensure visitor and monument safety.
- Backpacks, strollers, and large umbrellas are allowed on the boats and islands. Visitors with Crown or Pedestal tickets must store these items in lockers, conveniently located adjacent to the secondary screening area before entering the Pedestal or Crown.
- There are no locker facilities at the New York and New Jersey departure points.
- Backpacks, strollers and large umbrellas are allowed on the boats and the islands, but must be stored in a designated area inside the Pedestal if you or your guests have Crown or Pedestal tickets.
- All food and drinks, except water in a clear plastic bottle (metal and glass bottles are prohibited) inside the Statue of Liberty.
- Prohibited items include drones, scooters, skateboards, firearms, explosives or flammables, knives or sharp objects (including tools), pepper spray, mace, and all markers (permanent or erasable). Please visit NPS Security and Standards for a full list of prohibited items.
- All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a responsible Adult (25 years or older)
- 2pm and 3pm priority entry will not allow enough time to visit Ellis Island.