While on the ferry, there are snacks and beverages to purchase, and indoor and outdoor seats on two different levels. The ferry offers amazing views and the best opportunities to take photos of the Statue, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline.
Visiting Liberty Island & Ellis Island
When visiting Liberty Island, make sure not to miss:
- Admiring the iconic Statue of Liberty that has defined America and New York for generations
- Climbing up to the crown/pedestal, if you have purchased those tickets from Statue City Cruises
- Exploring and taking photos throughout the island
- Visiting the included Statue of Liberty Museum, which has highlights of:
- The inspiration gallery, with the original 1886 torch
- The immersive theater, which tells the history of the Statue and its future
- The Becoming Liberty interactive exhibit
Ellis Island
When visiting Ellis Island, after disembarking the ferry, immediately in front of you will be the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, where you can:
- Pick up the free audio tour.
- Go to the famous “Registry Room” or “Great Hall” in the museum, where 12 million immigrants were processed. Visit the 3rd-floor balcony for a spectacular viewpoint.
- Look up your family’s history of travelling through Ellis Island/Port of NY at the Family History Center.
- Outside the museum, highlights include The American Immigrant Wall of Honor and views of the NYC Skyline and the Statue.
Liberty Island and Ellis Island both have meals, snacks, and drinks from the Crown Cafe and the Ellis Cafe, respectively. For a full list of what is offered and prices, visit here.
If those menu options don’t entice you, click here for info on what to eat and do before and after your visit. Click here to read about how to prepare for your trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
