Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry Transfers

Your tour starts in Battery Park, located at the southern tip of Manhattan in New York City. It is a historic 25-acre public park with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Established in the 17th century, it was originally a defensive artillery battery. Today, it's a vibrant space with gardens, monuments, and ferry terminals where your ferry will depart for your tour. Popular landmarks include Castle Clinton, an old fort turned museum, and the Seaglass Carousel. It's a gateway to the harbor and a serene escape in the bustling city.

Your first stop of the day after your ferry ride is on Liberty Island, a small island in New York Harbor, home to the iconic Statue of Liberty. It covers about 14 acres and is part of the National Park Service. Originally called Bedloe's Island, it was renamed in 1956 to honor the statue. The island offers close-up views of the statue, symbolizing freedom and democracy. The island also features a museum detailing the statue's history and significance.

The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and gifted by France in 1886. It commemorates the Franco-American alliance and celebrates liberty. The 305-foot statue depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, holding a torch and a tablet inscribed with the date of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it remains a powerful emblem of hope and freedom. You can access the Statue of Liberty Museum, which opened in 2019. The museum explores the statue's creation, history, and symbolism through interactive exhibits and artifacts, including the original torch. You can learn about the engineering challenges faced during its construction and the statue's cultural impact worldwide.

After some free time to enjoy the Statue of Liberty and taking a couple of selfie, it's time to head to your next stop: Ellis Island. Located in New York Harbor near the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island served as the primary immigration station for the United States from 1892 to 1954. Over 12 million immigrants passed through its doors, making it a symbol of America's rich immigrant heritage. Today, Ellis Island is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. The museum showcases the stories of the millions who journeyed to America, offering exhibits on their challenges, cultures, and contributions to American society. You will be able to explore the restored Great Hall, where immigrants were processed, and trace your own ancestry through the island's extensive archives.

The National Museum of Immigration, located on Ellis Island, chronicles the experiences of the millions who passed through its doors from 1892 to 1954. The museum is housed in the restored Main Building, where immigrants were once processed. It features exhibits on the immigration journey, including personal stories, artifacts, and photographs that highlight the challenges and hopes of those seeking a new life in America. The museum also explores broader themes of migration, cultural exchange, and the ongoing story of American immigration. Visitors can research their ancestry through the American Family Immigration History Center, which offers access to ship manifests and immigration records. Your guide will tell you all the tales there is to know about the incredible history of Ellis Island. You will then be able to explore at your own pace and decide when you want to take the ferry back to Manhattan.