Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour

From$49.99
4 hours
New York City, USA

About this activity

Experience the rich history of America's iconic landmarks with priority access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, guided by an expert providing engaging historical insights.

Highlights

  • Priority access to iconic Statue of Liberty
  • Explore historic Ellis Island Immigration Museum
  • Engaging pre-ferry historical tour
  • Expert guide sharing captivating stories
  • Breathtaking views of New York Harbor

Full description

Discover the rich history of America's iconic landmarks with this comprehensive tour. Enjoy priority access to the Statue of Liberty, allowing you to explore its pedestal and museum at your leisure. Then, delve into the stories of millions of immigrants at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Before boarding the ferry, an expert guide will provide a pre-ferry tour, sharing captivating tales and historical context that bring these sites to life. This experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with America's past while enjoying breathtaking views of New York Harbor.

Included / Excluded

  • Priority reserved access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
  • Pre-ferry tour providing historical context and insights
  • Expert guide sharing engaging stories and facts
  • Food and beverages during the tour

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour operates rain or shine; cancellations due to weather are rare.
  • Photography is permitted, but tripods and professional equipment may be restricted.
  • Large bags and backpacks are not allowed; consider bringing a small bag or backpack.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves walking and standing for extended periods.
  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry to the sites.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the day's conditions.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Stroller Accessible
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Audio tours are available in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Russian and Arabic.
  • Family friendly audio tours designed for children ages 6-10 are also available in the same languages.
  • A mandatory airport grade security screening is conducted prior to boarding the ferry. This means no alcohol, weapons or large bags are allowed.
  • Depending on the queues, and time of year, any tour departing from 1pm onwards may not make it to Ellis Island before it closes for the day,
  • Minors (17 or under) must be accompanied by an adult (25+)
  • Due to local regulations, the Statue of Liberty Museum, Ellis Island, and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum may not be open on the date of your visit
  • February 2025 – Due to construction, priority boarding is temporarily suspended
  • If there are only a few French-speaking or Spanish-speaking guests on the tour, you will be in a tour group with English speakers as well, and will have a bi-lingual guide who will give commentary in either both French and English, or both English and Spanish

Traveler reviews

3.4
32 reviews
5
15
4
2
3
2
2
6
1
7

Pre-Ferry tour

This pre-ferry tour consisted of meeting a "tour guide" who we stood with for about an hour while he talked about the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, . We met up with him at 12:45 PM and he told us that we were going to be getting on the 1:00 PM Ferry, and then he kept us standing there while he talked for over an hour. I was tired of standing and part way through his talk, I told him that I thought that we were getting on the 1:00 PM Ferry and he said that the Ferry went every 20 minutes and it didn't matter which one we got on. I really wanted to move on to actually touring the sights. He finally sent us toward the Ferry that we boarded and we were on our own to figure out everything during the actual tour. I wasn't really looking for a history lesson. I had been to Ellis Island before with a tour guide who was fabulous, and was wanting to share that same experience with my niece. I was extremely disappointed. We would have gotten just as much out of just getting a Ferry out to the islands and touring ourselves (which is actually what we ended up doing), but it would not have cost as much. I would not recommend this Pre-Ferry tour for the price ($60 each). Just pay for a Ferry out to the Statue and Ellis Island. I have taken many Viator excursions and have found most to be worthwhile, but not this one.

Audrey_WSep 2, 2026VIATOR

Not worth the price

Long wait for both ferries in the hot sun. Tour guide disappeared and hard to understand when he was speaking. No access to the state of liberty building, especially when I specifically asked. Nor do they tell me you have to book entry to the statue a month in advance. Spent more time waiting in line then touring Ellis island or the Statue of Liberty. Way over priced for what you got. Do not recommend this tour.

Joanne_EAug 9, 2026VIATOR

Great tour guide

Meeting place was easy to find and tour was on time as well. Nina was an excellent tour guide, she was very knowledgeable.

Jeffrey_BAug 1, 2026VIATOR

Greta Trip

Our guide was so informative and friendly, i can''t remember his name but he was Belgium/bronx . I think you should put meeting point outside starbucks as we found it hard to meet with the address given

seanie5Jul 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Due to a Tickertape...

Due to a Tickertape parade in NY I was unable to make it to the pickup spot. No transport available. I called and and was told to explain my situation and I would get a refund. I did as ask and was denied refund or credit. No consideration for circumstances out of my control.

daniel_jJun 18, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

Audio tours are available in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Russian and Arabic. Family friendly audio tours designed for children ages 6-10 are also available in the same languages. A mandatory airport grade security screening is conducted prior to boarding the ferry. This means no alcohol, weapons or large bags are allowed. Depending on the queues, and time of year, any tour departing from 1pm onwards may not make it to Ellis Island before it closes for the day, Minors (17 or under) must be accompanied by an adult (25+) Due to local regulations, the Statue of Liberty Museum, Ellis Island, and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum may not be open on the date of your visit February 2025 – Due to construction, priority boarding is temporarily suspended