Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Private Tour with Ferry

Summary

Walk the footsteps of immigrants at Liberty and Ellis

You’ll cross New York Harbor by ferry with a local guide, stand beneath Lady Liberty herself, and wander Ellis Island’s echoing halls where millions arrived in hope. Listen to real stories, touch history, and let your own family memories sneak up on you along the way.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever notice how the wind smells different near the water?” That’s what our guide, Marcus, asked as we waited for the ferry at Battery Park. I was still chewing my bagel, watching pigeons fight over crumbs by Castle Clinton. The line moved faster than I expected — security was tight but not stressful, and Marcus chatted about how this old fort once guarded New York Harbor. He pointed out a faded plaque I’d have missed, something about cannonballs and British ships. The air had that salty-metal bite you only get near big city docks.

The boat ride out to Liberty Island was louder than I thought — kids yelling, seagulls circling, some guy playing Sinatra off his phone. When Lady Liberty finally came into view, she looked smaller than in movies but somehow more real. Up close, you can see the color isn’t just green — there’s streaks and shadows where rain runs down her robe. Marcus told us how French craftsmen hammered every copper plate by hand (I tried to picture that; failed). We didn’t go up to the crown, but standing at her feet felt heavy anyway — like all those stories pressed into metal and stone.

I didn’t expect Ellis Island to hit so hard. It’s quieter there — almost too quiet after Manhattan’s noise. We walked through echoey halls where sunlight slants through huge windows onto old suitcases piled behind glass. Marcus read us names off the registry; he even found one that matched my grandmother’s maiden name (we laughed about it, but I felt weirdly proud). There’s something about touching the railings worn smooth by millions of hands — makes you wonder what they were thinking as they waited for their turn.

By the time we caught the ferry back, my shoes were dusty and my head was full of faces I’ll never know. You don’t really “see” New York on this day trip to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island — you feel it under your skin for days after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tour

• Visit Battery Park
• Explore Castle Clinton National Monument
• Tour the Statue of Liberty
• Take boat to Ellis Island
• Visit Ellis Island Immigration Center

Top questions

How long does the private Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island tour last?

The tour lasts about 4 hours but can vary depending on ferry schedules and time spent on Ellis Island.

Is entry to both Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island included?

Yes, entry fees for both sites are included in your private tour booking.

Does this tour include access to the pedestal or crown?

No, pedestal and crown access are not included in this tour.

Are ferry tickets part of the private tour package?

Yes, round-trip ferry tickets between Battery Park, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island are included.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible and infants can use a pram or stroller during the tour.

Can children join this private Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult at least 21 years old if under 18.

Will there be food or drinks available during the tour?

You can purchase food and drinks on board the ferry as well as on both islands.

How much walking is involved in this day trip from Manhattan?

A moderate amount of walking is required; comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes a personal expert guide throughout Battery Park, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island; round-trip ferry tickets; guided tours at each stop; plus all entry fees covered so you can just show up ready to walk (and maybe snack along the way).