NYC Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Visit with Ferry Ticket

Experience the Iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in a Full-Day Tour

When visiting New York City, few sights evoke as much awe as the Statue of Liberty. This tour, priced at $59.99 per person, offers a convenient way to see this symbol of freedom along with Ellis Island’s immigrant history, all within a roughly 6.5-hour window. You’ll start from Times Square, with options to include breakfast and roundtrip transportation, making it particularly appealing for visitors who want to avoid the logistical hassle of navigating NYC on their own.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the roundtrip transfer from Midtown Manhattan, which saves you the hassle of subway or taxi rides and gives you more time to enjoy the sights. Plus, the scenic ferry ride offers great views of the Manhattan skyline — a photo opportunity you won’t want to miss. We also like the flexibility of options, whether you want just the ferry tickets or added extras like a quick cruise around the harbor.

However, one aspect to consider is that this tour does not include access to the Pedestal or Crown of the Statue, which might disappoint visitors eager for a closer look or higher vantage points. Also, if you’re hoping to go inside the Statue or explore the interior, you’ll need a different ticket or tour.

This experience suits first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule who want a straightforward, informative overview of New York’s most famous landmarks without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Convenient roundtrip transfers from Midtown reduce transit stress.
• Ferry rides provide stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline.
• Flexible options include breakfast and sightseeing cruises.
• Limited access to the Statue’s interior, no pedestal or crown entry.
• Tour timing around 6.5 hours makes it suitable for a half-day adventure.
• Booking in advance (around 23 days) can help secure your spot and plan ahead.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Initial Departure

The adventure kicks off in Times Square, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The pick-up point at 211 W 43rd St makes it easy to find, especially if you’re already exploring the Broadway area. The tour touts roundtrip bus transfers from Midtown Manhattan—a real plus, especially in hot or cold weather—and it means you won’t need to navigate the subway with luggage or young children.

According to one review, “The meeting place the app told me to go to was the wrong place. The guide called and told me where we were actually supposed to be. He was very nice and helpful.” That small hiccup is a reminder to stay flexible, but overall, the logistics are straightforward, and the guides seem attentive.

The Ferry Ride and Views

The core of the experience is the scenic ferry ride to Liberty Island. If you select the ticket option, your ferry tickets are included, so there’s no waiting in long lines. The ferry ride itself lasts about 4 hours if you plan to visit both Liberty and Ellis Islands, which is ample time to explore at a relaxed pace.

What makes this trip special are the Manhattan skyline views from the water—a perspective that many travelers find more memorable than just seeing the landmarks from afar. As you sail, you’ll enjoy a different vantage point of the city’s towering skyscrapers and bridges.

A notable feature is the Statue of Liberty itself, which you’ll see up close from the water. It’s a powerful sight, especially if it’s your first visit. However, be aware that this tour does NOT include access to the Pedestal or Crown—if you’re seeking that closer experience, you’ll need a different, more expensive ticket.

Visiting Liberty and Ellis Islands

Once at Liberty Island, you’ll have approximately 4 hours to admire Lady Liberty and explore the surrounding grounds. The reviews are mixed here: one traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the ferry system was organized,” but also noted that no access to inside the Statue is included.

Next, your ferry sails to Ellis Island, the historic entry point for millions of immigrants. The tour includes a one-hour cruise around the harbor, which is a good way to see the city from the water without stepping onto the island itself, depending on the option selected.

If you’ve opted for the Statue of Liberty Express Cruise, you’ll enjoy a 60-minute water cruise that offers views from the water but won’t stop at Liberty Island. Many travelers appreciate this for a quick, relaxed way to see the Statue from afar, especially if they prefer focusing on the skyline and harbor instead of spending hours on the islands.

Return and Final Stops

The return trip is straightforward, with a bus transfer back to Midtown from Battery Park, finishing your day. The return trip takes about 30 minutes, enough time to reflect on what you’ve seen and perhaps plan your next stop.

Practical Details and Value

The $59.99 price point offers a decent value if you’re looking for a guided, all-in-one experience that includes transportation, ferry tickets, and optional extras like breakfast. The mobile ticket feature makes check-in smooth, and booking 23 days in advance usually helps secure a spot during busier seasons.

However, keep in mind that the tour does not include access to the Statue’s interior, which might be a downside for some travelers seeking a more immersive experience. Also, since most travelers only get about four hours on Liberty Island and Ellis Island, those with a keen interest in the history or wanting inside access might find this somewhat limited.

The review from Brandy_B highlights a minor hiccup with the meeting point but notes that the staff was helpful, which suggests good customer service. The group size, capped at 55 travelers, keeps things manageable but can feel crowded during peak times.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a straightforward way to see the Statue of Liberty and learn some history without spending hours organizing logistics. It’s also great for families, couples, or small groups looking for a hassle-free half-day activity. If you’re on a budget and want to maximize your sightseeing, the inclusion of roundtrip transport and ferry tickets makes it an attractive option.

However, if you’re craving inside access or a more in-depth experience, you’ll need to explore other options or spend a bit more. Likewise, if you’re particularly interested in going inside the Statue or visiting the crown, this tour won’t meet those needs.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, this NYC Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Visit with Ferry Ticket offers a practical, manageable way to get close to one of America’s most recognizable symbols. The convenience of transportation and scenic water views makes it especially appealing for visitors unfamiliar with the city’s transit system or those pressed for time.

While it doesn’t include interior access or pedestal visits, the tour does a good job of balancing affordability with a memorable experience. It’s best suited for first-timers, casual travelers, or families seeking a guided, hassle-free adventure.

If you’re looking for an efficient introduction to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with minimal planning, this tour fits the bill. Just keep in mind that booking early, being flexible with timing, and understanding the limited access to the interior will help you get the most out of your day.

FAQ

Does this tour include access to the pedestal or crown of the Statue of Liberty?
No, this tour does not include access to the pedestal or crown. You’ll see the Statue from the water and on Liberty Island, but interior access requires a different ticket.

What is included in the tour?
Depending on the option selected, the tour includes ferry tickets, roundtrip bus transfer from Midtown Manhattan, and an optional 60-minute cruise.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for refunds.

How long is the total experience?
The entire tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including transportation, ferry rides, and time on the islands.

Is the ferry ride scenic?
Absolutely. The ferry offers excellent views of the Manhattan skyline, making the ride itself a highlight.

Will I be with many other people?
Yes, the group size is capped at 55 travelers, so it can be busy, especially during peak season.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Times Square (211 W 43rd St) and ends back there after the ferry trip and bus transfer.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the walking involved and the limited access inside the Statue.

What if I want to explore more of the Statue or pay for special access?
You’ll need a different, more expensive ticket that includes interior access or crown visits.

How early should I book?
Booking about 23 days in advance is typical, especially in busy seasons, to secure your spot.