Statue of Liberty

About

The Statue of Liberty stands as one of America's most beloved symbols, rising majestically from Liberty Island in New York Harbor. This 305-foot copper statue, a gift from France in 1886, continues to inspire millions of visitors who come to experience her powerful message of freedom and democracy. Your journey begins with a scenic ferry ride from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey, offering spectacular views of the New York skyline and harbor.

Once you arrive on Liberty Island, you'll find beautifully maintained grounds perfect for photos and quiet reflection. The Statue of Liberty Museum houses fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the statue's creation, journey to America, and enduring significance. Interactive displays, original artifacts, and immersive experiences bring Lady Liberty's history to life.

For those with pedestal reservations, you can explore the interior museum within Fort Wood and enjoy elevated views from the pedestal level. The most adventurous visitors with crown reservations can climb the narrow spiral staircase to the crown itself, though this requires advance booking and significant physical effort.

Beyond the statue itself, Liberty Island offers peaceful walking paths, gift shops, and food service areas where you can relax and take in the harbor views. Many visitors combine their trip with a stop at nearby Ellis Island to explore the Immigration Museum. The ferry ride back provides another opportunity to capture stunning photos of the Manhattan skyline and the statue from different angles.

Whether you're interested in American history, architecture, or simply want to experience this iconic landmark, the Statue of Liberty offers an unforgettable experience that connects you to America's founding ideals and immigrant heritage.

Accessibility

The Statue of Liberty welcomes visitors with disabilities with comprehensive accessibility features. The grounds on Liberty Island are fully wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways connecting all major areas. Ferry transportation from both Manhattan and New Jersey departure points accommodates wheelchairs and mobility devices.

For visitors with pedestal reservations, wheelchair access is provided to the museum exhibits and the exterior areas of Fort Wood. A wheelchair-accessible lift operates from where the main pedestal elevator stops, extending access to higher levels of the monument. The pedestrian walkways and viewing areas feature wheelchair-accessible routes, though there's a slight incline approaching some areas that most motorized mobility devices can handle easily.

The Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island includes accessible exhibits with tactile elements and clear sightlines for wheelchair users. Accessible restroom facilities are available on the island. Staff members are available to provide assistance as needed throughout your visit.

Please note that crown access requires climbing a narrow spiral staircase with 162 steps and is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors using mobility aids should make advance reservations and inform staff of any specific accommodation needs when booking. Contact the National Park Service or Statue Cruises for current accessibility details and to discuss specific requirements for your visit.

More accessible places in New York

• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum (New York City)
• Whitney Museum of American Art (New York City)
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum (New York City)
• Top of the Rock (New York City)
• Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island (New York City)
• Intrepid Museum (New York City)