The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are iconic landmarks that hold immense historical significance for both Americans and immigrants alike. This small-group tour offers an intimate and educational experience, led by a knowledgeable guide who’ll provide insights into the rich history and cultural importance of these sites. Visitors can expect breathtaking views from the pedestal and crown of Lady Liberty, as well as a deep dive into the immigration experience at Ellis Island. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, this tour promises to captivate and inspire, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for these cherished national treasures.
Key Points
- A small-group tour with a maximum of 16 travelers, led by a licensed NYC tour guide for an informative experience over approximately 8 hours.
- Round-trip ferry access to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, with optional pedestal or crown access available for an additional fee.
- Includes admission to various exhibits on the islands and professional guidance from the licensed tour guide.
- Provides a wheelchair-accessible experience with stroller and service animal accommodations, ensuring an inclusive tour for all visitors.
- Offers flexible booking options, with a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option and a 24-hour cancellation policy, as well as an overall 5.0 tour rating from customer feedback.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Inclusions
- Meeting and End Points
- Accessibility
- Booking Information
- Statue of Liberty Highlights
- Ellis Island Highlights
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I Need to Bring My Own Food and Water?
- Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
- Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
- Can I Extend My Time at the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island?
- Are There Any Additional Fees Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in New York City
- More Tours in New York City
- More Tour Reviews in New York City
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in New York City we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Small-Group Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of two of New York City’s most iconic landmarks.
Starting at around 8:30 AM, small groups of 16 or fewer travelers embark on this 8-hour journey. Led by a licensed NYC tour guide, the experience includes round-trip ferry access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, as well as museum entry.
Participants can opt for additional Statue of Liberty experiences like pedestal or crown access. While food, souvenirs, and other incidentals aren’t included, the tour provides a well-rounded look at these historic sites.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New York City.
Inclusions
The tour includes a licensed NYC tour guide who’ll lead the experience in a professional, fun, and engaging manner.
Round-trip ferry access is provided, taking travelers from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and back. Admission to various exhibits on the islands is included.
Participants can choose to access the pedestal or crown at the Statue of Liberty for an additional fee. Other optional expenses may include food, snacks, beverages, souvenirs, Ellis Island computer use, and hard hat tours.
Gratuity for the tour guide is optional, typically 15-18% of the full tour price.
Meeting and End Points
The meeting point for the tour is at 24 Whitehall St, New York, NY 10004, USA, in front of the Starbucks located at the corner of State Street and Pearl Street.
From there, the tour group will take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
After exploring these iconic landmarks, the tour ends at Ellis Island, where visitors can return to Battery Park at their leisure using the return ferry access provided.
Accessibility
This tour offers excellent accessibility, with the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island sites being wheelchair accessible. Strollers are also welcome, and service animals are allowed.
The tour’s surfaces are wheelchair-friendly, and it’s located near public transportation options. Plus, the tour:
- Provides access for most travelers to participate.
- Ensures smooth transitions between the ferry, the islands, and the return to Battery Park.
- Accommodates the needs of guests with diverse mobility requirements.
- Focuses on creating an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Booking Information
Confirmation is received at booking, allowing visitors to secure their spot while remaining flexible.
The tour offers a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option, which is ideal for those who want to plan ahead without immediate payment. Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience start time without penalty.
The tour has an overall rating of 5.0 based on a single review, though no ratings below 5 stars have been provided.
With these convenient booking policies and positive customer feedback, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Small-Group Tour provides a hassle-free way to explore these iconic New York landmarks.
Statue of Liberty Highlights
A highlight of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Small-Group Tour is the opportunity to access the statue’s pedestal or crown.
Visitors can choose to:
- Climb to the pedestal level, which offers stunning 360-degree views of New York Harbor.
- Ascend to the crown, where they can peer out through the statue’s iconic seven spikes, each representing the seven continents and oceans.
- Explore the museum exhibits within the statue’s base, which provide insights into the monument’s history and symbolism.
- Capture breathtaking photos of the iconic Lady Liberty from various vantage points on the tour.
These exclusive access opportunities make this small-group experience a must-do for any visitor to New York City.
Ellis Island Highlights
Beyond the iconic Statue of Liberty, the Ellis Island portion of the tour offers a captivating exploration of the island’s rich history as the gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States. Visitors can enjoy the restored Main Building, where they’ll learn about the immigration process and the challenges faced by those seeking a new life. The museum’s exhibits and displays evoke the emotions of the past, transporting guests to a time of hope, dreams, and perseverance.
| Statue of Liberty | Ellis Island |
|---|---|
| Iconic symbol of freedom | Gateway for millions of immigrants |
| Visible from New York Harbor | Restored Main Building |
| Pedestal and crown access | Exhibits on immigration process |
| Stunning views of Manhattan skyline | Emotional connection to the past |
| Part of the tour experience | Integral to the tour experience |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring My Own Food and Water?
No, food and water are not included in the tour. Travelers can bring their own snacks and drinks, but additional items like food, beverages, and souvenirs are not provided and must be purchased separately.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, visitors can take photographs during the tour. The tour allows participants to capture the iconic sights and memorable experiences throughout the excursion, including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
There’s no minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, as the tour is designed to be accessible and engaging for travelers of all ages.
Can I Extend My Time at the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island?
Guests can extend their time at the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island after the tour. The ferry service runs regularly, allowing visitors to explore more at their own pace. Travelers should check schedules to plan their extended stay.
Are There Any Additional Fees Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?
There may be additional fees not listed, such as charges for using the Ellis Island computer facilities and fees for optional hard hat tours. Travelers should review the tour details and budget accordingly.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Small-Group Tour
“Debbie provided an excellent day of touring (via ferry) to the Statue of Liberty and then Ellis Island. She is fun, well informed, and shared a loa…”
Recap
This small-group tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the pedestal and crown, while also gaining a deeper understanding of the rich history of immigration at Ellis Island. The tour’s intimate setting and expert guidance ensure an informative and memorable experience for all participants.
