Statue of Liberty Tickets

It's possible to get Statue of Liberty tickets last-minute, but you really are advised to book in advance to make sure you get the experience you deserve.

Tickets with return ferry journeys and access to Liberty Island are usually easy to come by on the day. If you want to visit the pedestal level, you'll likely need to book in advance of a few days. When it comes to climbing the 354 steps for crown access, you'll need to book up to six months in advance!

No, you can't climb to the Statue of Liberty's torch. The original torch was damaged by an explosion in 1916, and replaced with a replica in the 1980s. It's been closed to the public for over 100 years.

But all is not lost! If you purchase a ticket with access to the Statue of Liberty Museum, you can see the amber glow of the original torch up close.

Some questions are more important than others. All that liberty will make you hungry, so where's good to eat near the Statue of Liberty?

The ferries to both Liberty and Ellis Islands have snack bars onboard. The Crown Café on Liberty Island provides various no-nonsense fast-food options: french fries, wraps, burgers, and the like. Over on Ellis Island, the Ellis Café has a similar hunger-quenching menu. You can also bring your own picnic and enjoy it within the grounds.

You're obviously aware that Lady Liberty is that shade of piscine green because her copper shell has been oxidized over time. So here are some enlightening, alternative Statue of Liberty facts:

• The Statue of Liberty is not the tallest in the world. She barely makes the top 50.

• If your hair stands on end when you see her, it could be because the statue is struck by lightning hundreds of times every year

• She's got the moves – Liberty sways up to three inches during strong winds

• Up until 1902, the statue was a functioning lighthouse

• The Statue of Liberty is a movie icon. One of her silver-screen appearances came in 1987's Superman IV: The Quest for Peace, in which manicured villain Nuclear Man literally flings Lady Liberty at New York City, forcing Superman to zoom in fist-forward to save the day.

• Enjoy a magnificent view of the iconic Statue of Liberty, symbolizing freedom and democracy

• Explore the museum on Liberty Island, which houses exhibits and artifacts related to the statue's construction and the people who designed it

• Take in breathtaking views of the New York City skyline from the feet of the Statue of Liberty. The panoramic vistas of the city and the harbor are a must-see!

Are you ready to see this symbol of freedom up close? Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time to ensure you get a spot to visit Lady Liberty.

Choose the right Statue of Liberty tickets for you:

• Visit the iconic statue with an entry ticket that gets you access to Lady Liberty herself

• Join an expert historian on your journey to Ellis Island with a guided tour

• Take advantage of seamless transport to and from the Statue of Liberty with ferry tickets

General Information

• No backpacks, food, or drinks are allowed inside the Statue of Liberty. You must place these items in lockers located at the entrance
• Small children under 42 in tall are not allowed in the crown
• The climb to the crown involves 354 steps in a cramped, enclosed area with high temperatures
• Visitors should have no significant physical or mental conditions that would impair their ability to complete the climb

Accessibility Information

• The grounds on Liberty Island are wheelchair accessible
• Wheelchair access is provided to the museum and the exterior of Fort Wood
• A wheelchair-accessible lift is available to the top of the pedestal
• The outdoor observation deck and balcony are not wheelchair accessible
• All ferry boats to Liberty and Ellis Islands are accessible to the disabled
• Accessibility services are available for the hearing and sight impaired
• ASL Ranger-guided tours are offered periodically – check with your tour beforehand for more information