Statue of Liberty Hours

Your guide to the opening hours of Liberty Island

Visitors nearing Liberty Island on the first ferry of the day

Throughout the year, Statue of Liberty National Monument, which includes both Liberty Island and Ellis Island, is open from 9 AM to 6.30 PM.

Liberty Park remains closed only on Thanksgiving (the fourth Thursday of November) and Christmas Day (December 25).

Now let’s dive in for the ferry timings and New Yorker tips to get you started on this liberty visit.

Top Tickets

Book your self-guided tickets to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, or opt for the Guided Tour of the Statue of Liberty. For sunset views of Manhattan, check out the Circle Line 2-hour Harbor Lights Cruise, an evening cruise with a cocktail and commentary.

Knowing the Statue of Liberty ferry schedule is essential, as ferries are the only way to reach both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Here are the key ferry timings for your Liberty visit.

  • First ferry from the mainland: The first ferry departs from both Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, New York, and Liberty State Park in New Jersey at 9 AM.
  • Last ferry from the mainland: The final ferry departs from both Battery Park and Liberty State Park at 3.30 PM.
  • Last ferry from Liberty Island: The last ferry from Liberty Island to the mainland is at 6.45 PM.
  • Last ferry from Ellis Island: The very last ferry to depart from Ellis Island is at 7 PM.

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Make the most of your Liberty visit with these key tips for a hassle-free experience.

  • We highly recommend booking your tickets online to skip long lines and secure your preferred date. Check availability.
  • A full visit, exploring both Ellis and Liberty Island, can last from three to five hours, depending on your pace. Consider visiting early in the morning, ideally on the first ferry of the day (9 AM), to avoid crowds and long lines.
  • Be prepared for airport-style security screening before you board the ferry. If you plan to enter the Monument, additional security screening will be required.
  • Large bags are not permitted on Liberty or Ellis Islands. Backpacks, strollers, and large umbrellas are also not allowed inside the Monument. There are no locker facilities at the New York and New Jersey embarkation points.
  • Locker facilities are available near the monument entrance and can be rented for up to 2 hours with a 25¢ deposit (quarters only).
  • A change machine is available on site if you need to get quarters for lockers. Also, an ATM is located inside the gift shop on Liberty Island.
  • Dress for the season and in layers, as weather conditions can change suddenly.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as your Liberty Island visit involves around 30 minutes of walking, while enjoying the scenic views around Lady Liberty.
  • Snack kiosks (food and beverage stands) are available on the boats as well as on both Liberty and Ellis Islands.
  • All vessels are wheelchair accessible, and assistance is also available to visitors with reduced mobility. Please note that access to the Crown requires climbing 354 steps, as there is no elevator available.
  • Please be aware that if you take the last ferry from the mainland, you will only be able to visit one island.
  • The ferry ride itself takes approximately 10-20 minutes each way, though wait times can vary and might be around 30 minutes. It’s always best to check the ferry schedules as they can change depending on the season and tourist volume.

Here are some common questions about the hours of the Statue of Liberty.

What are the last ferry times?

The last ferry from the mainland (Battery Park or Liberty State Park) is at 5 PM. The last ferry from Liberty Island is at 6.45 PM, and from Ellis Island at 7 PM.

Are there any days when the Statue of Liberty is closed?

Yes, the Statue of Liberty National Monument is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

How many hours does it take to visit the Statue of Liberty?

A visit to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island takes three to five hours.

What if I am late for my ferry?

If you miss your scheduled Statue of Liberty ferry, your tickets will not be valid for later departures, and you will need to buy new tickets.

What’s the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty?

The best time to visit the Statue of Liberty is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). For fewer crowds and pleasant weather,  visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

When is it most crowded?

The Statue of Liberty is busiest around midday, especially between 11 AM and 2 PM. Visitor numbers also peak on weekends and during the summer months.

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Researched & Written by
Mary Bency thrives on the beauty of starry skies, the rhythm of poetry, and the thrill of cultural exploration. As a traveler with a deep curiosity for history and hidden gems, she immerses herself in the cultures and traditions of every place she visits. She is passionate about astronomy and poetry. Inspired by the destinations she explores, Mary writes, capturing their essence in verse. Mary's natural curiosity and knack for connecting with people allow her to infuse her writing with a dynamic and relatable perspective, engaging her stories. Favorite travel movie: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Next destination: Chefchaouen, Morocco.

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