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Early Access: First on the Island Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Overview
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Early Access Morning Tour
Avoid the crowds by joining the only tour operator with access to guaranteed tickets on the first ferry of the day to Liberty Island.

Afternoon Tour
Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in the afternoon with a knowledgeable guide.
City: New York City
Sat 18 May
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $69.00
Sat 18 May
Starting at $69.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
Expertly guided walking tour
Official audio guide on Ellis Island
Local English-speaking guide
First Guaranteed Access (8:30am departure only summer/9am departure only winter)
Pre-reserved ticket to Ellis Island (includes Ellis Island museum)
Pre-reserved ticket to Statue of Liberty Island (exterior access)
Additional Info
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adultā€™s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This tour is conducted in English only.
  • This is a walking tour. While there are stops along the way, guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
  • You are required to go through airport-style security on this tour. No luggage, weapons, or food (except for water in a clear container) is allowed. Confiscated items will not be returned.
  • Please Note: only the earliest booking time has access to the first ferry
  • Due to circumstances beyond our control, sites may occasionally close. We make every effort to stay as close to the advertised itinerary as possible but substitutions/omissions may be necessary.
  • Upon arrival at Liberty Island bags and backpacks must be stored in a locker..
  • This tour does not include access to the Statue of Liberty's Crown.
  • The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the tour start time. No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure.
  • Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • Face masks required for travellers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
  • Hand sanitiser available to travellers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
What To Expect
1
Battery Park
Begin your day at The Battery (formerly known as Battery Park). This historical landmark is the gateway between lower Manhattan and the small island in the midst of New York Bay - and of course, Lady Liberty
2
Castle Clinton National Monument
Pause at Castle Clinton, a national monument and for your guide to lay the context of your tour ahead
3
Liberty Island
Board the earliest ferry in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds. Sail through the open waters and take in the incredible views of New York Bay as you head for Liberty Island with your local tour guide
4
Statue of Liberty
Delve deep into the story of how Lady Liberty started in France and came to America. As you tour the island, your expert guide shares incredible historical facts of this greatest of American icons. Wander through the Statue of Liberty Museum and stand mere feet from Lady Libertyā€™s original torch!
5
Ellis Island Immigration Museum
Head to Ellis Island to discover the stories of the millions of immigrants who journeyed through this historic site. Wander at your leisure with the award-winning Audio Guide (included). You can peruse the museum, dive into your own family history, or enjoy a bite at the Islandā€™s popular cafeteria. You are also welcome to return on the ferry with your guide.
Show 2 more stops
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (927)
jojoq88
Dec 2022
Cherie is such a wonderful tour guide. Sheā€™s so knowledgeable and a historian to boot. Definitely a memorable experience . Sheā€™s highly recommendable.
Z550NTtomb
Dec 2022
Brilliant tour with Rob who went above and beyond to share the history of both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. His knowledge was second to none and his approach engaging and entertaining - he knew how to read the room and keep everyone engaged!
Corgimom828
Dec 2022
Our guide Marla was absolutely excellent and so energetic. She was knowledgeable and entertaining. The perk of being able to go towards the front of the security line as a tour group was much appreciated. The time estimated on the event description is not really accurate. Park services wonā€™t let the guides join you in the Ellis Island buildings, so she gave her presentation about it outside and that was the end of the official tour, but we still hadnā€™t explored inside yet. We had to change our lunch plans to accommodate enough time to see all we wanted to see, which wasnā€™t a huge deal but is worth mentioning for those who are time conscious. Overall, a great experience and it was wonderful to be in the first group to the Statue of Liberty before all the crowds.

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