Thanks to Statue Cruises for providing accommodations.
On Monday, we took the kids to see The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. As someone who has lived in New Jersey all of my life, I’m a little embarrassed to say that I had never visited either landmark. It’s been on my “to-do” list for years, so excited wasn’t even the word for how I was feeling the morning of our daytrip.
We were still pretty exhausted from Easter Sunday festivities the day prior, so getting up to be there early was rough . For us, “there” was Liberty State Park in Jersey City. You can also take the ferry from Battery Park in lower Manhattan if that location works better for you. Parking at the Jersey City location was $7 for the day.
Whichever side you depart from – New York or New Jersey, Statue Cruises is the official concessioner for the National Park Service to provide ferry and related services to the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island. 2016 marked the Statue of Liberty’s 130th birthday and ridership exceeded a record 4.3 million passengers for the year.
We had a wonderful day exploring both islands. We enjoyed panoramic views from Lady Liberty’s pedestal and equally gorgeous views from Ellis Island. I really wish we had more time to see everything at Ellis Island, so we will be sure to return again. There is just so much to experience there. Audio tours are available for free in both adult and child versions in a variety of languages. Quick service meals were decent but pricey so pack a lunch and some snacks. There are lockers available before you enter the Statue to stow food and backpacks (water is allowed). Lastly, I definitely recommend arriving as early as possible due to crowds and if possible get to the Statue of Liberty first even if the first stop is Ellis Island. We feel like that maximized the time we were able to spend touring the sites.
This looks like a great place to visit. I wish we lived closer so we could go visit.
I was there with my Girl Scout Troop (many, many years ago) and then about four years ago we went on a rainy winter day. I was very impressed by the Ellis Island displays – I’d love to go back again (on a nicer day). We also started at the NJ departure area – actually pretty easy to get there & park.
Ive ben twice and its a great place to visit. Glad you had a great experience.
It’s awesome that you were able to make it out to Liberty Island and Ellis Island! The statue is quite a sight! I’d love to take a ferry out there.
Isn’t it funny how we don’t see the tourist attractions in our own city?! I’ve lived in southern California for most of my life but it took FOREVER to get me to go to Hollywood!
That looks like so much fun! I’ve been on a good handful of dog-friendly boats, I wonder if this one is. I’ll have to check it out. We’d love that trip!
Next time I’m in NY the Statue of Liberty is on the list. When I was there it was for work and I ran out of time!
I’m glad you had a great time. I grew up in NYC but growing up there and going as a visitor is very different.
Looks like a great way to explore! Always fun when you can change things up during your travels. I need to get there myself one of these days