The city views from the boat ride and from Liberty Island are spectacular and standing close-up to the Statue of Liberty is a guaranteed thrill for everyone. For kids who are old enough, the climb up the torch is an adventure to cherish.
The same boats that go to Liberty Island continue to Ellis Island, a visit recommended for children old enough to appreciate the chance to walk in the footsteps of the millions who came to America from other lands. But be forewarned: Even advance tickets for these iconic sights sell out months in advance, especially tours that include access to the Liberty torch (the highest point you can climb to inside the Statue of Liberty).
If you don’t order tickets ahead, arrive very first thing in the morning or be prepared for long ticket lines and waits that can be hours for the timed departures.
Ask for the children’s audio tour (created for ages six to ten) in the lobby of the Statue of Liberty’s pedestal, and then kids four feet or taller can climb to the top of the statue’s crown.
In the Immigration Museum, head to Ellis Kid for an interactive exhibit that helps little ones imagine what it was like to immigrate to the U.S.
How to get here
The ferry to go to the Statue of Liberty National Monument leaves from Battery Park, New York. To get here:
By Bus: M5, M15, and M20 stop at South Ferry. Walk to the west, or follow signs for the Statue of Liberty ferries. Click for downloading a PDF version of the MTA Manhattan Bus Map.
By Subway: several subway stops are located near Battery Park.