Statue of Liberty Ellis Island with Pre-Ferry Tour

Experience the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with Priority Access

If you’re visiting New York City and want to see two of its most iconic sights—the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island—this tour offers a practical way to do so without the long lines. Priced at $49.99 per person, it lasts around four hours and includes a small-group setting, priority boarding, and detailed audio guides. Led by personable guides (sometimes with mixed reviews), you’ll start at Battery Park, then hop aboard a ferry with skip-the-line access. You’ll get close-up views of Lady Liberty, visit her museum, and explore the immigrant history at Ellis Island—a fascinating journey into America’s past.

What we love about this tour: First, the small-group format makes the experience more personal and less rushed. Second, the priority boarding significantly cuts down on waiting times at security and ferry lines—something that can turn a sightseeing day into a frustrating marathon. However, a potential downside is that timing can be tight, especially if you’re hoping for extensive time on each island or to visit the pedestal or crown, which are not included here.

This tour suits travelers who value efficiency but still want to soak in the sights and stories, even if it means limited time at each stop. It’s ideal for visitors with busy schedules, those who prefer guided insights, or travelers who want a streamlined experience without the hassle of organizing tickets and logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Time-saving: Priority boarding and skip-the-line ferry access help avoid long queues.
• Flexible options: Audio guides are available in multiple languages, with family-friendly versions.
• Limited access: No access to the pedestal or crown of the Statue of Liberty.
• Guided experience: Includes live tours on Liberty and Ellis Islands if you choose the guided option.
• Short visits: The time on each site can be brief, with some reviews noting limited hours at the museums.
• Value for money: Price includes ferry tickets, museum admissions, and audio guides, which makes it a convenient package.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Battery Park and the Guided Orientation

The tour begins at 24 State Street, a convenient location close to multiple subway lines. Here, you meet your guide—sometimes a friendly presence who offers helpful tips, other times less engaged, as some reviews suggest. The initial 30-minute guided tour of Battery Park and Castle Clinton sets the stage, offering context and tips on making the most of your time on Liberty and Ellis Islands.

We loved the way this introduction helps orient you in the city’s history and layout. It’s a great way to start, especially if you’re new to Manhattan. Plus, the focus on practical details means you’re prepared for the security screening and ferry boarding process.

Priority Boarding & Ferry Ride

Next comes the ferry, where priority boarding promises to cut through the security lines. Keep in mind, according to reviews, this benefit is mostly limited to the security check—the actual line to board the ferry can still be long, especially during peak seasons or later in the day. One reviewer mentioned waiting an hour and a half just to get on the boat, which suggests that skip-the-line privileges are not foolproof.

The ferry itself offers excellent views of the Manhattan skyline—including the towering Freedom Tower—and a quick, scenic cruise across New York Harbor. The ferry ride lasts about 30 minutes and provides a fresh perspective on the city’s waterfront.

Liberty Island & the Statue of Liberty

Disembarking at Liberty Island, you’ll get roughly 1.5 hours to explore. You can take photos of Lady Liberty up close and learn the story behind her as you walk around her base. The audio guides (or guided tour if you upgrade) offer a wealth of information, helping you understand her significance as a symbol of freedom.

A highlight is the Statue of Liberty Museum, which holds the original torch and offers insight into her construction and symbolism. This museum is a recent addition and one of the more meaningful parts of the visit.

However, some reviews point out that the time here is limited. One traveler noted, “30 minutes at Statue of Liberty and museum and 25 minutes at Ellis island is definitely not enough time.” If your goal is to really soak in the statue’s details or climb to the pedestal or crown, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets or choose a different tour. Currently, access to the crown remains closed, so don’t expect to stand at her highest point.

Ellis Island & the Immigration Museum

Next, the ferry takes you to Ellis Island, where the tour includes a guided walk around the grounds and the Wall of Heroes. The immigration museum, housed in the historic Great Hall, is a powerful reminder of the millions who passed through here seeking a new life. The tour includes a multilingual audio guide and about 30 minutes to explore—just enough time to get a sense of the immigrant experience.

Some reviews mention feeling rushed, especially with limited time on both islands. One person shared, “Not enough time on Ellis Island,” while others appreciated the chance to discover family names on the wall or view the exhibits quickly before moving on.

Returning to Manhattan & the Harbor Views

The final part of the tour is the ferry back from Ellis Island to Battery Park, offering panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Freedom Tower. This scenic ride caps off the experience with memorable sights, especially if the weather is clear.

What the Tour Includes & What’s Not

The package covers ferry tickets, entry to the museums, and audio guides—making it quite a comprehensive and convenient choice for travelers who want to avoid extra costs and lines. The live guides on Liberty and Ellis Islands add a personal touch, and the multilingual headsets cater to international visitors.

However, it’s important to note what’s not included: access to the pedestal or crown, which require separate tickets, and a live guide inside the museums. Some reviews highlight that the “skip-the-line” claim isn’t always perfectly accurate, so don’t expect to bypass all queues entirely.

Timing & Practical Tips

Booking for times after 1 pm might mean missing out on Ellis Island, especially during busy seasons—since the island closes early or may be less accessible later in the day. Arrive at least 15 minutes early, as instructed, to avoid missing your tour.

Keep in mind that security screening is mandatory, and no large bags, weapons, or alcohol are permitted onboard. The tour is family-friendly, with audio options for children, but be prepared for some walking and standing.

Authentic Feedback from Other Travelers

The reviews provide a balanced picture. Many guests praise knowledgeable guides, especially those who are animated and engaging, like Leanne who received glowing comments. One quoted review says, “Leanne was the best! She brought us to the front of every line,” showing how a good guide can significantly enhance your experience.

On the flip side, some travelers express disappointment with long lines despite the “priority” claim, or a rushed feeling that limits the time to truly appreciate each site. One reviewer shared, “We waited in quite a long line with no apparent priority boarding,” illustrating that sometimes the reality doesn’t match expectations.

A recurring theme is the short duration at each site. Several mentions of just 30 minutes on Ellis Island or Liberty Island, which might leave history buffs craving more.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour offers a smart way to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island without the headache of organizing tickets or waiting in lines. Its emphasis on small-group interactions and priority ferry access makes it attractive for travelers seeking efficiency and guided insights.

However, the limited time on each island, especially if you’re eager to explore more deeply or visit the crown, is a significant consideration. It’s best suited for visitors who want a quick overview, enjoy guided commentary, and prefer a hassle-free experience. If your goal is to spend ample time exploring Liberty’s pedestal or climbing to the crown, you’ll need a different ticket or tour.

Overall, for the price, you get a decent value—especially if you value guided commentary and want to skip some of the long lines—making it a practical choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time in New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I meet to redeem my tour?
You need to go to 24 State Street, arriving at least 15 minutes early. The meeting point is close to subway stations like South Ferry, White Hall Street, and Bowling Green.

How can I get to the meeting location?
Public transportation is the easiest way—subways nearby include the 1, N, R, W, 4, and 5 lines. Taxis or ride-shares are also convenient, especially if you’re carrying luggage.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, you might find parking around Pearl Street, but rates vary. For convenience, most travelers prefer public transit or taxis.

What’s the ferry departure point?
Ferries depart from Castle Clinton in Battery Park, but your guide will provide your tickets and specific instructions at the meeting point.

Can I join a later ferry if I miss mine?
Your ticket is good only for the scheduled time. You’d need to reschedule or buy another ticket, so arrive early to avoid missing out.

Are infants allowed?
Yes—infants under 2 travel free and lap-on the ferry. Just note their age when booking.

Can I bring food or drinks?
Yes, you can bring sealed food and beverages, though food isn’t allowed inside the museums or screening areas.

Are alcohol or large bags permitted?
Alcohol is not allowed on the ferry or islands, and large bags must be checked in before security screening.

Is there time to visit the crown or pedestal?
No, access to the crown and pedestal is not included and currently closed for visitors.

What about the museums?
Entry to the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Immigration Museum is included, but no guided tours inside these museums are provided.

In choosing this tour, consider your priorities: if you want a quick but guided visit with minimal hassle, it’s a solid pick. If you’re after a deep, leisurely experience, you might want to explore other options or approach planning independently. Either way, seeing Lady Liberty and Ellis Island remains a powerful highlight of a trip to New York City.