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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Statue of Liberty Summary
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| Public website: | www.nps.gov |
United States – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary. |
| Etiquette: | Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated. |
| Thanksgiving (November) |
A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges. |
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| Independence Day (July) |
Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Bolt |
| Helpful links: |
Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine |
| Other: | The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Statue of Liberty, United States
Ferry-only access, crown tickets sell out months ahead, rough weather can halt ferries in winter
Don't miss
- 🗽 Take the ferry to Liberty Island and see the Statue up close
- 🌅 Climb to the crown for sweeping views over New York Harbor
- 🏛️ Visit the Statue of Liberty Museum and view the original torch
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! The Statue of Liberty, officially named "Liberty Enlightening the World," was gifted to the United States by France in 1886. It represents ideals of liberty and democracy and stands 151 feet tall, atop a pedestal that brings the total height to 305 feet. Crafted from copper sheets supported by an iron framework designed by Gustave Eiffel, the statue’s green patina has become a global icon welcoming immigrants and visitors alike to New York Harbor.
Visitors often marvel at not only the statue itself but also the panoramic vistas from its pedestal and crown, where 354 steps lead to observation windows showcasing spectacular views of the city and waterways. The statue’s symbolism is reinforced by elements such as the broken chains at its feet signifying freedom and the tablet with the Declaration of Independence date.
While the experience is unforgettable, it’s important to be aware of a few considerations: strict security screenings resembling airport checks can slow entrance, large bags and certain items are prohibited and visiting the crown requires advance planning due to limited space. The ferry can be crowded during peak seasons and weather in New York can vary widely, so visitors should dress accordingly.
Despite minor inconveniences frequently mentioned by visitors, the Statue of Liberty endures as a must-see historic icon where art, architecture and history intertwine in a uniquely inspiring setting that continues to draw millions annually.
Knowledge before you go
- Book ferry tickets weeks in advance online.
- Take earliest 8:30 AM ferry for shortest security lines and quiet island exploration.
- Crown access requires climbing 377 steps; book 3-6 months ahead if interested.
- Explore Ellis Island Immigration Museum included with ferry ticket for complete historical experience.
How to travel to Statue of Liberty
Travelers typically reach the Statue of Liberty by ferry departing from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The ferry ride itself is a scenic journey providing stunning views of Lower Manhattan, the statue and the harbor skyline. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended to secure access, especially for visits to the pedestal or crown, which require special tickets and have limited availability. Upon arrival, visitors should be prepared for airport-style security screenings both before boarding the ferry and again before entering the statue premises.
Access summary
- From JFK (JFK): AirTrain + subway or taxi to Battery Park, 60–80 min.
- From Midtown Manhattan: Subway to South Ferry/Bowling Green, then walk to ferry, 25–40 min.
- From Battery Park: Mandatory ferry to Liberty Island, about 15–25 min crossing.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Statue of Liberty
Most visitors stay in Manhattan, where there is a wide range of accommodations from budget to luxury hotels. Staying near Battery Park offers the advantage of quick ferry access. The area has numerous hotels, many with views of the harbor and skyline, but demand is high especially during tourist season.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Packing recommendations for Statue of Liberty
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🕶️
Sunglasses
🎒
Small rucksack
🔋
Power bank
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
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To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 13% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend more on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to USD) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
The Statue of Liberty area is generally safe, with frequent police patrols and a strong tourist presence. Pickpocketing is rare but stay alert in crowded crowds. Follow standard city safety tips: keep valuables secure, avoid isolated alleys after dark and use official transport services.
Accessibility
The Statue of Liberty offers wheelchair access to the pedestal and a lift to the crown, though crowds can be overwhelming. The ferry provides accessible seating, but stairs remain for the original platform. Plan early, use priority tickets and check elevator availability.
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