A trip to New York City is not complete without a visit to the Statue of Liberty. The Statue of Liberty is a huge statue built on a small island near New York Harbor, standing with a torch in one hand and a book in the other. Standing at 305 feet, Lady Liberty is made of copper as thin as two pennies. Millions of people visit the Statue of Liberty every year, she is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site after all.
Extend your trip with a visit to Ellis Island where more than 12 million people were processed in the 65 years it was in operation. Guests can search for relatives in the museum’s archive and learn what life was like for them. No matter how you choose to put your visit together, you will walk away with a greater understanding of U.S. history and be treated to some pretty epic views of Manhattan.
Statue of Liberty Facts
The full name of the Statue of Liberty is Liberty in Lightning. The word Statue of Liberty was formed in It took a little more than 9 years to build and its height is equal to a 22-storey building. The height from the base to the top of the statue is 306 feet and the total weight of this statue is 225 tons.
354 curves are leading to the crown of the statue. One has to climb stairs. There is a book in the left hand of the statue on which the date of American Independence Day is written in Roman and the outer part of this statue is made of copper.
Due to the height of the statue, lightning strikes it about 300 times a year. If this electricity is collected then it produces 600 volts. In the years 1929 and 1932, two people committed suicide by jumping from this statue. Some also survived after jumping when the Statue of Liberty was ready.
Statue of Liberty History
The statue’s official name is Liberty Enlightening the World, but today it’s known as the Statue of Liberty. It was a gift to the United States from the people of France in the year 1886.
Here’s Governor’s Island, another popular tourist destination, and right here is Ellis Island, where many immigrants entered the United States from 1892 to 1954.
As boats sailed into the harbor, the Statue of Liberty would be one of the first views that immigrants would see coming to the United States. The Statue of Liberty has come to be known as a symbol of freedom. In her right hand, she holds a torch, and in her left hand, she holds a tablet that has the date of the Declaration of Independence in Roman numerals.
The Statue of Liberty was a dull brown when she was first unveiled. But the green patina she developed years ago protects her from the elements. There are so many ways to catch a glimpse of the State of Liberty, from a Manhattan skyscraper to a helicopter, or a ferry, but there is nothing like paying a visit to Lady Liberty herself.
Statue of Liberty Tickets
You need to do is you need to buy a ticket now there’s only one company that will take you to Liberty Island that’s the island that the Statue of Liberty is on that one company is Statue City Cruises we would recommend that you buy tickets in advance through Statue city cruises and this is the only way that you’re going to be able to get a ticket to the pedestal or the crown of the Statue of Liberty because they usually sell out months in advance if you use an online.
There are several types of tickets you can buy to see Lady Liberty, some let you see her from the ground, from a pedestal partway up, and some let you sit within her seven-pointed crown. Your ticket also grants you access to the newly-built Statue of Liberty Museum which houses the Statue’s original 3,600 pound torch.
When you purchase your ticket, you’ll receive a QR code for accessing the designated gate, usually gate six, situated just around the corner. This grants you access to a special line, bypassing any potential chaos elsewhere. Upon arrival, you’ll be provided with a physical ticket and, notably, a pink wristband. This wristband is essential for ascending to the crown, and it specifies the allowed items: cameras, phones, prescription items, and water; no bags are permitted.
We’ll delve deeper into this upon reaching Liberty Island. If you have a crown reserve, this is a mandatory stop; for pedestal reservations, you can proceed directly to the line.
What’s inside the Statue of Liberty
let’s take a close look at the inside of the Statue of Liberty and where you can go on the inside.
To access the interior of the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need a ticket that allows entry to the crown, which can be a bit challenging to secure. Typically, reservations need to be made several weeks or even months in advance.
Due to the pandemic, the public is currently restricted from accessing any part of the pedestal or statue. Hopefully, this restriction will be lifted soon. The entrance to the statue’s interior is through the Centennial Doors. Note that a pedestal ticket is necessary for access.
Upon entry into the pedestal lobby, the original torch of the Statue of Liberty used to be centrally located. However, since the museum’s inauguration in 2019, the torch has been relocated. Consequently, the pedestal lobby now offers an open layout. Most exhibits from the old museum have also been relocated to the new museum area.
Moving towards the top of the pedestal, two options are available: an elevator or stairs. There are 192 steps leading to the pinnacle of the pedestal.
Inside this area, you’ll find stairs for ascent and descent on opposite sides. The pedestal encompasses seven floors: from 1P to 7P, culminating at the summit. At the 3P level, visitors can step outside to observe the surrounding areas. The official Observation Deck is situated at the 6P level, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the harbor. Ascend to level 7P if you possess a crown ticket; this marks the beginning of the climb to the statue’s summit.
Named the Double Helix Stairway, it functions as an upward climb and a downward descent, fitting snugly within the support structure. Space is limited, and it’s not recommended for those with a fear of heights. Resting points are available along the way, and an emergency elevator, reserved for emergencies and not regular use, is also accessible.
Capable of accommodating only three individuals, this elevator halts at certain platforms along the spiral stairway. As you ascend, you’ll witness the metal framework supporting the statue and even discern the individual folds of the statue’s dress. Finally reaching the crown, a limited number of visitors are permitted simultaneously. It provides an exceptional vantage point to gaze out of the 25 windows onto the harbor. Inside, intricate patterns of the statue’s hair are visible.
Additionally, there are illuminations on the back that brighten up during nighttime. After completing your time in the crown, descend the opposite side of the Double Helix Stairway.
There’s frequent curiosity about the torch. Following an explosion in New York Harbor in 1916 that damaged the statue, public access to the torch was discontinued. However, maintenance personnel occasionally ascend to the torch. Near the statue’s neck, a gate grants entry to the arm, leading to a lengthy ladder ascent.
It’s a challenging climb, progressing through another ladder, culminating at a small door opening up to the open air outside.”
This revision aims to streamline the information while maintaining clarity about the various areas and access points within the Statue of Liberty.
Tips for visiting the Statue of Liberty
Given to the United States by France, the Statue of Liberty stands as a symbol of freedom and is a popular destination, drawing numerous visitors each year. As one of the world’s most famous landmarks, there are compelling reasons to visit Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty, but there are important things you should know before planning your trip. today we’re sharing essential tips for visiting the Statue of Liberty.
The foremost step in planning your trip to the Statue of Liberty is booking tickets well in advance—about three months ahead. This is especially crucial if you aim to visit the crown or the museum inside the statue. Tours and crown access have limited availability and tend to be booked up at least two months in advance.
Speaking of the crown, we highly recommend this experience. It was one of our favorite travel moments, offering breathtaking views of New York City and a dose of history. However, be prepared for a climb—there are over 300 stairs on a narrow, winding staircase. Wear comfortable shoes, allocate ample time, and consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Another tip for a pleasant visit is to go early and on weekdays. Weekends in New York City tend to be busier due to visitors from nearby cities. Avoiding crowds is key, as the ferries can get overcrowded during peak times.
Did you know you can take a free tour to learn more about the history of Liberty Island? Rangers conduct free tours throughout the day, lasting approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Check the information center on Liberty Island for the complete tour schedule.
Bringing a picnic is a great idea, given the ample green spaces and benches around the island. If you opt for the cafeteria, while the food quality might not be exceptional, it’s reasonably priced at around ten dollars for lunch. Don’t forget to use the free water fountains and bring a refillable water bottle and sunscreen, especially if you’re climbing to the crown during the warmer months—shade is scarce on Liberty Island.
Visiting with children? There’s a children’s version of the audio tour, available in multiple languages. Additionally, a junior ranger program caters to kids aged 7 to 12. Enjoy the family-friendly experience!
Lastly, don’t miss the original torch at the Statue of Liberty Museum. This museum, open to all visitors on Liberty Island, houses the original torch removed and replaced in 1986 after a century of service.
As for costs, prices vary. At present (2021), the admission fee for an adult is $19.25 for visiting the island, and it’s the same price to enter the statue. Heading up to the crown will cost $22.25.
We hope these tips enhance your visit to the Statue of Liberty. Take care, stay creative, and have an incredible time exploring this iconic landmark!
FAQ: Statue of Liberty
Q: How do I get tickets to visit the Statue of Liberty?
A: Tickets can be purchased online through the official National Park Service website or authorized ticket vendors. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially for access to the crown.
Q: Are there different types of tickets available?
A: Yes, there are various ticket options. General admission tickets grant access to Liberty Island and the pedestal. Crown tickets allow entry to the crown, offering a close-up view of the interior and harbor. There are also options for pedestal-only access.
Q: Can I visit the pedestal and crown with a general admission ticket?
A: No, access to the crown requires a specific crown ticket. However, pedestal access is included with general admission.
Q: What safety measures are in place?
A: Security screenings are mandatory for all visitors. Bag checks and metal detectors are utilized. Additionally, certain items like large bags, weapons, and certain liquids are prohibited.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are offered on Liberty Island. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and significance of the Statue of Liberty.
Q: How long does a visit typically take?
A: A visit can range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the chosen ticket and the extent of exploration desired.
Q: Is the crown climb difficult?
A: Climbing to the crown involves ascending a narrow spiral staircase of around 192 steps. It can be physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone.
Q: What can I expect at the top of the crown?
A: The crown provides a stunning view of New York Harbor through 25 small windows. Visitors can also view the intricate details of the statue’s interior.
Q: Is there a museum on the island?
A: Yes, there is a museum on Liberty Island, showcasing exhibits related to the Statue of Liberty’s history and construction.
Q: Can I access the torch?
A: Public access to the torch has been discontinued since 1916 due to safety concerns. However, maintenance personnel occasionally access it.
Q: Are there dining options on the island?
A: There are food concessions available, offering snacks and refreshments on Liberty Island.
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