Statue of Liberty

Overview

The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island, standing 93 meters from ground to torch tip. A universal symbol of freedom and democracy, it has greeted millions of immigrants arriving by sea since 1886.

Highlights

• Crown Access: Climbing the 377 steps inside the statue to the crown offers intimate views through small windows over New York Harbor — a physically demanding but unforgettable experience.
• Pedestal Museum: The museum inside the pedestal tells the story of the statue's construction, including a full-scale replica of Liberty's face and foot.
• Liberty Island Views: The island itself offers spectacular panoramic views of Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Verrazano Bridge.

History

Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and engineered by Gustave Eiffel, it was a gift from France to the United States, dedicated on October 28, 1886. The copper skin is only 2.4mm thick — the green patina developed naturally over 20 years of oxidation.

Visitor Tips

• Crown Tickets: Crown access tickets sell out months in advance. Book the moment they become available on the Statue Cruises website.
• First Ferry: Take the earliest ferry from Battery Park to avoid peak crowds on the island.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.