Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Guided Tour Ferry Tickets

Summary

Walk New York’s immigrant paths from Battery Park to Liberty’s torch

You’ll walk through Battery Park with a local guide, catch lively ferry rides across New York Bay, circle Lady Liberty up close, and wander Ellis Island’s echoing halls with an audio guide. Alongside history and city views, expect small moments—a story shared or a laugh on deck—that linger long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the way the wind smelled at The Battery—sort of salty, but also like pretzels from a cart nearby. We stood near Castle Clinton, and our guide (her name was Jamie, I think) waved her arms around as she talked about ships docking here centuries ago. There was this older couple in our group who kept nodding along, maybe imagining their own family landing here. I didn’t expect to feel so connected so quickly—maybe it was the way Jamie told stories, or just being surrounded by all that water and history.

The ferry ride out to Liberty Island was louder than I thought it’d be—kids running around, seagulls shouting over us, Manhattan shrinking behind. When we got close, Lady Liberty looked almost greenish against the sky. Jamie pointed out details on her robe I’d never noticed in photos. She explained how the statue was shipped from France in pieces (which sounds like a nightmare to assemble), and how people used to climb all the way up to the crown—though that’s not part of this tour now. My shoes squeaked on the deck as we walked around; someone nearby tried to get a selfie with the torch in the background and nearly dropped their phone.

If you pick the longer option for this Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island guided tour, you’ll hop back on the ferry for just ten minutes and end up at Ellis Island. The audio guide there is actually worth using—I found myself wandering into rooms filled with old suitcases and faded photos. There’s something about seeing those names etched into walls that makes you go quiet for a second. I grabbed a coffee at the cafeteria (not great coffee, but honestly, who cares when you’re looking out at Manhattan through those windows?).

On the way back, Jamie asked if anyone had family who came through Ellis Island—one woman said yes, and suddenly everyone started sharing little bits about where they’re from. That stuck with me more than any fact or photo did. Sometimes travel does that—you think you’re going for one reason, but it ends up being about people you meet along the way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

• Start at The Battery park
• Visit Castle Clinton monument
• Board ferry to Liberty Island
• Guided tour of Statue of Liberty
• Optional ferry to Ellis Island
• Explore Ellis Island museum
• Return ferry to Battery Park

Top questions

How long is the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island guided tour?

You can choose between a 2-hour express option or a 4-hour fully guided tour including Ellis Island.

Does this tour include access inside the Statue of Liberty?

No, this tour includes exterior access only; crown and pedestal entry are not included.

Is ferry transportation included in the ticket?

Yes, pre-reserved ferry tickets are included for both Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

Is there an audio guide available at Ellis Island?

Yes, an official audio guide is included for Ellis Island on the 4-hour tour option.

Are these Statue of Liberty tours wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and transportation options are wheelchair accessible; arrangements can be made if needed.

Where does this guided tour start?

The tour begins at The Battery (formerly Battery Park) in lower Manhattan.

Can I bring young children or strollers on this tour?

Yes, infants and children can join; strollers are allowed throughout the experience.

Will my guide stay with me during free time on Ellis Island?

You can explore at your own pace or return with your guide—the choice is yours.

What’s included

Your day includes pre-reserved ferry tickets to both Liberty Island and (with the 4-hour option) Ellis Island museum entry plus an official audio guide there. You’ll be led by an English-speaking local guide from Battery Park through each step—no need to worry about logistics or timing along the way.