Statue of liberty

The Statue of Liberty was a joint effort between France and the United States, intended to commemorate the lasting friendship between the peoples of the two nations. The French sculptor Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi created the statue itself out of sheets of hammered copper, while Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel, the man behind the famed Eiffel Tower, designed the statue’s steel framework. The Statue of Liberty was then given to the United States and erected atop an American-designed pedestal on a small island in Upper New York Bay, now known as Liberty Island, and dedicated by President Grover Cleveland in 1886. Over the years, the statue stood tall as millions of immigrants arrived in America via nearby Ellis Island; in 1986, it underwent an extensive renovation in honor of the centennial of its dedication. Today, the Statue of Liberty remains an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy, as well as one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. Origins of the Statue of Liberty Around 1865, as the Did you know? The base of the Statue of Liberty's pedestal contains exhibits on the monument's history, including the original 1886 torch. Visitor access to the Statue of Liberty's torch was halted for good after German operatives set off an explosion on the nearby Black Tom peninsula in July 1916, during World War I. Due to the need to raise funds for the statue, work on the sculpture did not begin until 1875. Bartholdi’s massive creation, titled “Statue of Liberty Enlightening the Worl...

Opened in 2019, the 26,000 square-foot museum is a destination unto itself. Beautifully designed, universally accessible, and housing an extraordinary and engaging collection of American heirlooms, the Museum enhances visits to the Island with interactive exhibits that enable visitors to explore the Statue’s grandeur without the need for additional advanced reservations or tickets. The Statue of Liberty Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and legacy of a remarkable American treasure. Unique collections and modern galleries provide an enhanced educational experience, inviting visitors to contemplate the meaning of the Statue and explore history in thought-provoking ways. A stirring and engaging destination, the Museum acts as an extension of the park and of the monument itself. By sharing Lady Liberty’s story, we provide a powerful lesson in the fragility of freedom, and help visitors gain a new appreciation for one of the world’s most inspiring icons.

Liberty Island is home to a beautiful park, an innovative museum, and America’s most iconic symbol of promise and possibility. As you explore the grounds, take in Lady Liberty from different angles noting her design details and how her appearance changes with the light. No additional ticket is needed to visit the museum. Visitors to Ellis Island are given a unique view of American history. Beautifully restored to its peak operating period, the Island allows park-goers to step into Ellis Island travelers’ shoes for a sense of the immigrant journey. At the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum, voyages come to life through a stunning collection of artifacts. Exhibits chronicle America’s immigration history from the 1500s through to today. Visit the American Family Immigration No additional ticket is needed to visit the museum.

Keepers of the Flame The Role of the Foundation The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation honors the American experience through its preservation and support of these two great monuments. From restoring the Statue to creating a world-class museum and much more, the Foundation is committed to fulfilling projects that will keep Lady Liberty standing tall for current and future generations. To get to Liberty and Ellis Islands, visitors must take a Visitors should note that Statue City Cruises is the only authorized concessionaire permitted to sell tickets and provide ferry access to Liberty and Ellis Islands. As such, visitors should avoid street vendors peddling tickets in and around Battery Park. Tickets sold by street vendors will not provide access to the grounds on Liberty Island and Ellis Island or to the museums on each island – the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Currently, the Statue ’s interior is closed to the public. However, the Pedestal is open (special ticket required and should be purchased in advance). The Statue of Liberty Museum and Liberty Island grounds remain fully accessible to all guests. The Museum tells the history and influence of Lady Liberty, including a simulated climb to her crown. A visit to the Liberty Vista, atop the Museum, offers a unique look at the Statue and sweeping views of New York Harbor. For updates on visiting the Statue’s Crown, please review the National Park Service . Park Rangers pr...