Choose Your Access Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Small-Group Tour

Discover the rich history and culture of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on this comprehensive small-group tour. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore iconic landmarks, learn fascinating insights, and have the option to access the statue’s pedestal. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a family-friendly adventure, this 3.5-4 hour journey promises an immersive experience you won’t soon forget. With limited group sizes, you’ll enjoy personalized attention as you uncover the stories behind these significant sites.

Good To Know

• This small-group guided tour provides comprehensive access to Battery Park, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island for up to 15 travelers.
• The tour lasts 3.5-4 hours and is led by an expert guide, highly recommended by past travelers with a 4.8/5 rating.
• Pedestal access to the Statue of Liberty is available for an additional fee, requiring a separate ticket and 354 steps to climb.
• Explore the interactive exhibits at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and enjoy the scenic ferry ride back to Manhattan.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This small-group guided tour provides comprehensive access to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Over 3.5-4 hours, an expert guide will lead you through Battery Park, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island. With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and an interactive experience.

The tour includes entry to the grounds and facilities, though access to the Statue of Liberty pedestal requires separate, self-booked tickets.

Expect moderate walking and plan for all weather conditions. This highly recommended tour earns a 4.8/5 rating from past travelers for its informative and memorable experience.

Meeting and Logistics

The tour meets at 1 Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004, USA.

The guide will be at the north entrance holding a white flag with the company’s logo.

The tour ends at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

It starts at 9:30 am, so arrive 15 minutes early to ensure on-time departure.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and moderate walking is involved.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

No weapons are allowed, but photography is permitted without monopods or tripods.

The tour runs in all weather, so dress appropriately.

What’s Included and Excluded

The tour includes an expert guide to lead the group, though gratuities for the guide are not covered. Tickets for the Statue Cruises ferry must be purchased separately, while food and drinks are available for purchase on the ferry and islands. The tour operates in all weather, so travelers should dress appropriately.

Additional Information

Although the tour operates in all weather, travelers should dress appropriately for the elements.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and moderate walking is involved.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older. Service animals are permitted, but no weapons are allowed.

Photography is permitted, but monopods and tripods are prohibited.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

This small-group tour has a maximum of 15 travelers and provides an informative and engaging experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Traveler Reviews

Traveler reviews for this Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tour are overwhelmingly positive, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 347 reviews.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who provide:

1. Informative and interactive experiences.
2. Memorable tours highlighting the key attractions.
3. Valuable insights into the history and significance of these iconic landmarks.

While some guests experienced minor issues with ticketing or lacking pedestal access, the vast majority recommend this tour for families and history enthusiasts alike.

The tour’s high satisfaction rate reflects its ability to deliver an enriching and enjoyable experience.

Statue of Liberty Pedestal Access

Access to the Statue of Liberty’s pedestal is available for an additional fee, but not included in the tour price.

Visitors can purchase pedestal tickets separately if they’d like to climb up and take in the panoramic views from the crown’s base. This option offers a unique perspective and photo opportunities not available from the grounds below.

However, it requires an extra ticket purchase and more time commitment beyond the guided tour. Travelers should consider their physical abilities, as climbing the pedestal involves 354 steps.

Reserving pedestal tickets in advance is strongly recommended to ensure availability.

Exploring Ellis Island

Exploring Ellis Island provides visitors an immersive glimpse into the pivotal role it played as the gateway to America for millions of immigrants.

The 3.5-4 hour guided tour includes stops at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, where travelers can:

1. Discover the moving stories of new arrivals through interactive exhibits.
2. Learn about the island’s history and the stringent medical and legal inspections faced by immigrants.
3. Wander the restored Great Hall, the central processing center where immigrants were documented and approved for entry.

The tour culminates with a scenic ferry ride back to Manhattan, capping off an unforgettable journey through America’s past.

Customizing Your Experience

Although the guided tour provides a comprehensive experience, visitors can further customize their visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

For those seeking more in-depth exploration, self-guided audio tours are available. Adventurous travelers can upgrade to a pedestal or crown access ticket for unforgettable views.

Families can request a child-friendly tour guide to engage younger participants. Visitors can extend their time on Ellis Island to explore the museum and historic records at their own pace.

With flexible options, travelers can tailor their journey to align with their interests and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Statue of Liberty?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the Statue of Liberty. However, the use of monopods and tripods is prohibited. Visitors can take photos during the guided tours and on their own time on the islands.

How Much Time Do I Need to Explore Ellis Island?

The tour guide recommends allowing an additional hour to explore Ellis Island after the guided portion of the tour. This extra time allows visitors to fully experience the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration at their own pace.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Ferry?

Yes, there are restrooms available on the ferry that transports visitors to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The ferry provides this amenity for passengers during the journey to and from the islands.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks With Me on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, food and drink are also available for purchase on the ferry and islands. The tour itself does not include any meals or beverages.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

There’s no mention of senior or student discounts for this tour. The tour price is the same for all participants, regardless of age or student status. Additional fees may apply for separate Statue of Liberty pedestal access.

The Sum Up

This captivating small-group tour offers comprehensive access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Led by an expert guide, it provides informative insights and the opportunity to explore these iconic landmarks. With optional pedestal access, it’s a perfect adventure for families and history enthusiasts, immersing them in the rich culture and history of these significant sites.