New York: Statue of Liberty and Happy Hour Cruise Combo

Experience the Best of New York in One Day: Statue of Liberty and Happy Hour Cruise Combo

If you’re visiting New York City and want to pack in some of the most iconic sights along with a fun, relaxing evening activity, this tour offers a smart mix. For $119 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island at your own pace, then cap the day with a two-hour Happy Hour cruise on the Hudson River, complete with a live DJ and drinks for purchase.

We love how this combo balances sightseeing with entertainment. The self-guided audio tour allows you to explore at your own rhythm, soaking in the history and significance of these landmarks without feeling rushed. Plus, the Happy Hour cruise offers unbeatable views of the city skyline at sunset, making for a memorable and Instagram-worthy experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour does not include entry to the Pedestal or Crown of the Statue of Liberty—if you’re eager to see those areas, you’ll need to book separately. Still, this package hits a sweet spot for travelers seeking authentic sights coupled with a lively, social vibe in the evening. It suits those who enjoy a mix of history, local scenery, and a laid-back party atmosphere.

Key Points

• Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with a self-guided audio tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Access the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Museum, providing insightful exhibits about immigration and the monument’s history.
• Enjoy a 2-hour Happy Hour cruise with live DJ entertainment and drinks available for purchase, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
• Priority entry and express security check make the process smoother, saving time for more exploration.
• Includes round-trip ferry transportation from Battery Park, with access to the grounds of both islands.
• Accessible for wheelchair users, making this a comfortable experience for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Starting your day at Battery Park, you’ll find the ticket office inside the historic Castle Clinton. Here, you’ll step onto a ferry that whisks you away to two of America’s most iconic landmarks. The ferry ride itself offers great views of the Manhattan skyline, and from there, your exploration begins.

Once on Liberty Island, you’ll have self-guided audio tours available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese, Arabic, and Hindi. These audio guides bring the sites to life, explaining the significance of the Statue, its history, and the stories of those who built it.

One of the highlights here is access to the Statue of Liberty Museum, which features interactive exhibits about the monument’s history and symbolism. You’ll love the way the museum adds context and depth to your visit, making the Statue more than just a photo opportunity.

Next, the ferry takes you to Ellis Island, home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. This museum offers a compelling look at the millions of immigrants who passed through here seeking a new life. You can explore the restored immigration stations and learn the stories of hope, hardship, and perseverance.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers appreciate the smooth, priority access process, noting it significantly reduces wait times and stress, especially during busy seasons. Reviewers often mention how knowledgeable guides (or in this case, the comprehensive audio tour) make the experience more meaningful, with some saying it “brought history alive.”

The Happy Hour Cruise

As evening falls, you’ll head to Pier 15, about a 15-minute walk from Battery Park, where the Happy Hour cruise departs at 5:30 PM for a 6:00 PM sail. This 2-hour cruise on the Hudson River is more about relaxing and enjoying the views than formal sightseeing.

The boat features a lively live DJ that sets a casual, upbeat mood, perfect for birthdays, groups, or anyone wanting to unwind after a day of walking. Drinks are available for purchase—think cocktails, beers, and soft drinks—so you can sip while taking in the spectacular skyline and the Statue of Liberty illuminated at sunset.

Many reviewers comment on the excellent views of Manhattan’s skyline from the water, describing it as a highlight of the evening. The casual vibe and music make it feel more like a social gathering than a traditional tour, which travelers often find refreshing.

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Practical Details and Tips

• The ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island departs from Battery Park; be prepared for security checks similar to airport screenings.
• The audio guide is in multiple languages, so check which language you prefer before your trip.
• The ticket includes priority entry, which is a big plus on crowded days.
• The Happy Hour cruise departs from Pier 15 at 5:30 PM; plan to arrive early to board comfortably.
• This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for those with mobility needs.
• No tickets are refundable, so plan your day carefully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This combo is ideal for travelers who want to tick off the must-see landmarks without rushing, while also enjoying a lively evening on the water. It’s great for groups, couples, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. If you’re interested in a relaxed pace with the flexibility to explore the islands at your leisure, this package offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

This Statue of Liberty and Happy Hour Cruise combo strikes a nice balance between history, sightseeing, and fun. The self-guided audio tour on Liberty Island and Ellis Island gives you the freedom to learn and explore at your own speed, making it a flexible experience suited for those who prefer to absorb history at their own pace. The evening cruise adds a festive touch, with unbeatable views and a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

While it doesn’t include access to the Crown or Pedestal, the package offers great value considering the comprehensive access to the islands, museums, and the beautiful water views. It’s especially well-suited for visitors who want a hassle-free experience with knowledgeable insights and a relaxed social evening.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, enjoyable way to see some of New York’s most celebrated sights and then toast the city’s skyline, this tour is a smart choice. It combines history, scenery, and a bit of fun into one memorable day out.

FAQ

Does the tour include entry to the Crown or Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty?
No, this tour does not include entry to either the Crown or Pedestal. Those require separate tickets.

How long do I spend on Liberty Island and Ellis Island?
You explore these islands at your own pace with the self-guided audio tour, but the overall visit typically lasts around 3 hours.

What time does the Happy Hour cruise leave?
The cruise departs from Pier 15 at 6:00 PM, with check-in starting at 5:30 PM.

Is the cruise suitable for kids or families?
Yes, all ages are welcome, but the relaxed, party-like atmosphere might appeal more to adults or groups celebrating.

Are drinks included in the cruise?
No, drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Can I bring my wheelchair?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is the duration of the ferry ride?
The ferry ride to Liberty Island and Ellis Island is included in the overall experience but generally takes around 15-20 minutes each way.

Is there a guide on the islands?
You’ll have a self-guided audio tour, but no live guide. The audio guides are available in multiple languages.

What is the price of this tour?
The cost is $119 per person, which covers ferry transportation, access to the islands and museums, and the cruise.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the islands and on the boat.

You can check availability for your dates here: