The Statue of Liberty is one of New York’s most famous tourist attractions and has welcomed visitors since 1886. It was a gift from France to the United States and is recognized as a symbol of freedom and democracy.
The French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi designed the Statue of Liberty. She is holding a torch in her right hand and the Declaration of Independence in her left.
You can find the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island right outside Manhattan on the Hudson River. The statue weighs 225 tons and is 305 feet tall if you’re counting the torch.
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A gift from France
The Statue of Liberty is recognized as a symbol of freedom and democracy. It was a gift from France commemorating the alliance of France and the United States during the American Revolution.
The French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi designed the outside of the Statue of Liberty. The framework on the inside was designed by Eugène-Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc and Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel. When the statue was finished it was dissembled and shipped to New York City.
It took over a year for the Americans to assemble the statue. When it was finished and standing in New York on October 28, 1886, President Cleveland officially dedicated the Statue of Liberty in from of thousands of people.
The Statue of Liberty is holding a torch made in 24 karat gold in her right hand and the Declaration of Independence in her left.
Visit the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty gets around 5 million visitors every year, which makes this one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York, and the United States.
How to get to the Statue of Liberty
To reach the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need to take the ferry from either Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The ferry ride alone is a pretty fun experience, giving you beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline and the statue as you get closer.
Tickets to the Statue of Liberty
If you’re looking to visit the Statue of Liberty up close, you have a few ticket options. Remember that you don’t have to print your ticket. It’s enough to show a screenshot on your phone.
You have three tickets to choose from:
General Admission (ground ticket)
The general admission ticket allows you to explore Liberty Island on the ground, visit the museum, and of course get closer to the Statue of Liberty. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to visit the Statue. Your ticket also includes a visit to Ellis Island.
Pedestral Ticket
For those seeking an extra fun experience, the pedestal ticket might be your best option. In addition to everything included in the general admission ticket, you’ll also have access to the pedestal observation deck. From there, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the New York City skyline. To get to the top you need to take the stairs, a total of 215 steps. There is an elevator for those who need it. Make sure to get this ticket on time since they might be sold out for the day you plan to go.
Crown Ticket
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, the crown ticket is for you! With this ticket, you don’t only get all the perks of the general admission and pedestal tickets but also get access to the crown of the Statue of Liberty. It’s a great opportunity to witness breathtaking views from the highest point. Crown tickets are limited so make sure to book them on time to not miss out.
No elevator access
There is no elevator to get to the crown. To get there you need to walk up many stairs and it’s probably not for you if you easily get claustrophobia.
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What you can’t bring to the Statue of Liberty
To get to the Statue of Liberty you need to go through some security controls. Make sure to not bring the following items.
On the ferry:
- Weapons
- Large bags and suitcases
- Pets (except for service animals)
To the torch:
- Food and drinks (water is ok as long as it’s in a clear bottle)
- Large bags, suitcases, or any size backpacks
- Strollers
- Computers and iPads
- Camera tripods
- Long umbrellas
To the crown:
- Keys
- Anything that can block people from walking up the stairs
- Only one camera per group (this doesn’t apply to phones)
There are lockers where you can leave your belongings if needed before going up in the crown.
Statue of Liberty Museum
The Statue of Liberty Museum opened in 2019. There, you can learn more about the statue’s history through interactive exhibits, captivating multimedia presentations, and more. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the Statue of Liberty.
See the Statue of Liberty for free
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Staten Island Ferry provides a fantastic opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty for free (using your metro card)!
The ferry takes you on a scenic ride across the harbor. It’s a great way to enjoy the experience without spending a dime. If you don’t have a metro card already it only costs $2.75.
Additional information
| Opening hours | 9 am – 5 pm |
| Address | Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004 |
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Common questions about the Statue of Liberty
Can I see the Statue of Liberty for free?
Yes. If you already have paid for a Metro Card you can ride the Staten Island Ferry for free, which offers a great view of the Statue of Liberty. If you don’t have a Metro Card it only costs $2.75.
How much does it cost to visit the Statue of Liberty?
Click here to get tickets to the Statue of Liberty in NYC
Do you need to buy tickets in advance to the Statue of Liberty?
Yes, especially if you want to visit the pedestal or the crown. You can get tickets here.
How tall is the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty weighs 225 tons and is 305 feet tall if you’re including the torch.
What material is the Statue of Liberty made from?
The Statue of Liberty is made from copper and steel.
Why is the Statue of Liberty green?
The Statue of Liberty’s exterior is made of copper, and it turned that shade of green because of oxidation.
When was the Statue of Liberty built?
Year 1886. After it was shipped over from France, it took the Americans more than a year to assemble it.
Who designed the Statue of Liberty?
The French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi designed the outside look of the Statue of Liberty. The framework on the inside was designed by Eugène-Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc and Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel.