What is the Best Way to See The Statue of Liberty?

After many years of visiting and exploring NYC, here are 14 of the best Statue of Liberty viewpoints and tours, so you can see Lady Liberty in all her glory.

But why is it so tricky to see the Statue of Liberty?

Well, honestly, she’s in kind of an awkward spot. Located on her own little island, a little too far from the waterfront for clear, and close-up views. So you do need a little help to see her in all her glory!

So finding the best way to see the Statue of Liberty is so important, especially if it’s your first time in NYC. After all, securing that perfect view of Lady Liberty, especially for those all-important photos!

There are many Statue of Liberty viewpoints around the city; some you’ll need to pay for, and some are free.

And in this list, we’ll outline the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty, both free and paid. 

In this blog post about how to find the best way to see the Statue of Liberty, you’ll find a full rundown of all the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty. Hopefully, this post about the best places to see the Statue of Liberty is helpful!

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Why is buying Statue of Liberty tickets so confusing?

In short, it’s because there are so many options.

The sheer quantity of tour operators and boats makes it confusing and daunting.

What else makes it confusing? Well, some boats are free, some aren’t. Some leave from Manhattan, some Statue of Liberty viewpoints are located on the island itself. 

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic sights to see in the city, and one of the best photo opportunities in the world – so of course, you want to make sure you’re finding the best way to see her.

In this list of best ways to see the Statue of Liberty, I’ve tried to include a variety of free and paid ways to see the Statue of Liberty, including a variety of Statue of Liberty viewpoints too (because some of us have a big budget, some of us don’t!).

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Here are the best ways to see Statue of Liberty and where to buy Statue of Liberty tickets…

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Option 1: Take the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island (this is arguably the best Statue of Liberty viewpoint)

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Cost: about $20 per adult

When looking for the best way to see the Statue of Liberty, this is perhaps the option for budget-conscious travelers.

One of the best ways to see Statue of Liberty, is by doing the boat crossing over to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

There’s no argument that this is an amazing way to see the Statue of Liberty. And it’s one of the most affordable choices too – which is a winner!

Above is my husband and I, in 2019! We used the priority Statue of Liberty tickets, and it was great.

It’s the classic Statue of Liberty viewpoint and photo opportunity, and you get a boat ride thrown in too!

Liberty Island is where the Statue of Liberty is, so taking the ferry over there means you get great views on the approach, and also from the island itself (looking right up at Lady Liberty from the ground!) like the photo above.

This is the classic way to buy Statue of Liberty tickets too, as they’re easy to buy online (I’ve included the link below).

Remember – although this gives you access to lots of the famous Statue of Liberty view points, but it’s not a ‘tour’ so to speak.

It’s more a public ferry ticket over to the Statue of Liberty. The ferry above only goes between Battery Park and the Liberty Island area. The boats leave really often from Battery Park, which means it fits into most schedules.

During the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis island, you will also see the Manhattan skyline – a big bonus!

As you walk around, you’ll be treated to so many amazing angles and photo opportunities for the Statue of Liberty. It’s unbeatable.

Included in the basic ticket price is:

• Entry to Liberty Island (where the Statue of Liberty is) which really is the best way to see Statue of Liberty up close.
• Entry to the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum.
• Entry to the Statue of Liberty Museum (a great place to learn more about her).
• Multilingual audio tour headsets for the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island.
• Ferry tickets (there and back) which offer some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty.
• The Pedestal Access option includes access Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty National Monument with entry to the Pedestal Museum and Viewing platform.

Please note: If you want to climb to the crown of the State of Liberty – you’ll need to pay an additional cost. The crown is another epic Statue of Liberty view point, but costs a little bit extra. Food and drink isn’t included either. 

And honestly for the small price tag you get so much included in the ticket, so it’s a great option for Statue of Liberty tickets.

We recommend booking ahead online, as it helps you avoid some of the queues, this is a great choice.

It’s a great option, one of the best ways to see Statue of Liberty, gives you access to lots of Statue of Liberty view points, and gets you as close as you can be!

—  Book these classic or priority Statue of Liberty tickets by clicking here  —

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Option 2: Book early access Statue of Liberty tickets

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Cost: $50-$60 per person

OK, I think this might be my favorite choice for finding the best way to see Statue of Liberty.

The early access ticket is amazing for people who want a bit of extra time and space to see the beautiful Statue of Liberty, as you’ll get to be there before everyone else and have some time to truly soak it all in (without all the crowds).

You’ll get access to the same Statue of Liberty viewpoints as the basic ferry above, but the reason this is an amazing choice for seeing the Statue of Liberty viewpoints, is because they’re so much quieter when you visit first thing. 

The early access ticket includes the boat over to the Statue of Liberty, as well as the museums and tours, but you’re paying a bit extra to see her before all the tours and crowds arrive.

Being able to see the Statue of Liberty viewpoints without the crowds is a really amazing and unique experience, which make this one of my favorite options for Statue of Liberty tickets.

It feels a bit more special and private, and if you’re into photography – this is the perfect way to ensure you get loads of gorgeous photos of all the incredible Statue of Liberty viewpoints before everyone else arrives later in the morning.

—  Click here to book early access tickets to see the statue of liberty  —

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Option 3: See the Statue of Liberty from a city boat tour

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Cost: $25 – $75 (depending on which tour you choose!)

Next on my list of the best ways to see Statue of Liberty, it’s a boat tour.

This is a great option for Statue of Liberty tickets, especially if you’re not too bothered about gaining access to Liberty Island itself.

You’ll get to see Lady Liberty from plenty of different angles too, if you book this tour.

If you’re looking for a great way to see the Statue of Liberty – these boat tours are a great way to see it from a distance (you won’t get onto the island itself).

How is this different to the ferry option mentioned above? The ferry above (option1) will take you to the Statue of Liberty island, but it’s not a ‘tour’ so to speak. This version is a tour.

Official boat tours (which I have linked below) will take you around more of Manhattan, such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge up close (so you tick a few things off your list).

As well as The Statue of Liberty, in all her glory, which makes it the best way to see the Statue of Liberty.

One of the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty is from the water around it, and taking an actual ‘boat tour’ is a great way to get amazing views (without having to disembark at Liberty Island).

Overall, this is a great option for the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty, and a great choice if you want to check out some floating Statue of Liberty view points. 

There are many boat tours that will take you out to the Statue of Liberty as part of their tour, and booking one is definitely a must-do while in the city.

It’s a great way to see the Statue of Liberty, but it’s also a great way to see the city skyline too.

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Option 4: Budget-friendly boat tour (a simple 60 minute cruise around Manhattan)

(click here for tickets)

This tour is perfect if you want to see the Statue of Liberty up close, but don’t need to get off at Ellis Island for the close-up Statue of Liberty viewpoints.

This tour also takes you under the Brooklyn Bridge, so it’s a great budget option, with some great photo opportunities!

At only 60 minutes in length, it won’t eat into the rest of your day too. So it’s a great choice if you’re not too fussed about the close-up Statue of Liberty viewpoints, and you don’t mind just admiring her from the water. 

So it’s a great way to see the Statue of Liberty if you’re short on time. This is certainly one of the best way to see Statue of Liberty.

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Option 5: A little bit of luxury, a luxury yacht tour around the Statue of Liberty

(click here for tickets)

This unique tour around the Statue of Liberty is something a little bit different.

This boat tour lets you soak in the views of the Statue of Liberty in a luxury 1920s style yacht, whilst you sip champagne!

Sure you don’t get onto Ellis Island on this tour, but you get these amazing Statue of Liberty viewpoints from the water, with the foreground of an incredible luxury yacht. 

It’s a lovely laid back tour option on a really comfortable boat, and perfect for spring or summer time when the weather is nice. Another great choice for the best ways to see Statue of Liberty.

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Option 6: Romantic and scenic: 60 min Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise

(click here for tickets)

Next on my list of the best ways to see Statue of Liberty, it’s this romantic boat tour. This tour departs at what is probably the most romantic time of day to see The Statue of Liberty, it heads off at sunset!

This boat tour lets you see Lady Liberty and the NYC skyline under the sparkle of sunset, and it’s a perfect option for couples!

It’s definitely one of the most romantic ways to get Statue of Liberty tickets.

You won’t get access to the close-up Statue of Liberty viewpoints on this tour, but the romantic elements more than make up for it. 

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Option 7: Unique and special 2 hour Clipper City Tall Ship Sunset Sail

(click here for tickets)

This unique boat tour is another wonderful option for seeing the Statue of Liberty!

It is on a traditional clipper tall ship – so it’s a bit different and quirky and a really memorable way to see the Statue of Liberty!

I LOVE this tour, it’s a real show-stopper and it’d make a lovely surprise for people. It also an amazing opportunity for some cute NYC photos – how often do you get to see the Statue of Liberty from a clipper tall ship!

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Option 8: Unique and special brunch cruise

(click here for tickets)

Another unique option for seeing the Statue of Liberty from the water – this tour is really something special!

Choose from plentiful food options (including bagels, lox, and more), while you take in close-up views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and Ellis Island. It’s a great all-rounder!

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Option 9: See the Statue of Liberty on foot from Lower Manhattan and Battery Park

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Cost: This Statue of Liberty view point is free!

Next on my list, it’s visiting Battery Park!

Battery Park is home to the best Statue of Liberty view point from Manhattan island itself. Without boarding a boat. 

This view of the Statue of Liberty does not require the use of a boat, great for anyone who suffers from sea-sickness, or anyone who isn’t too fussed about getting onboard a boat!

If you don’t have a big budget for Statue of Liberty tickets, then this Statue of Liberty view point is the ideal option for you.

A lot of NYC can be done on foot, and whilst you won’t get incredibly close to the State of Liberty without boarding a boat – you can still see it from land!

Whilst this may not be the best way to see the Statue of Liberty, it’s a good Statue of Liberty view point if you can’t / won’t do a boat.

By going to Battery Park, an area situated in Lower Manhattan, you can quite clearly take in the stunning views of the Statue of Liberty. There are several places in the park offering Statue of Liberty view points, but you’ll mainly want to head as south as possible, right next to the water’s edge. 

If you’re coming from uptown, I recommend getting off at either South Ferry Subway, or Whitehall Street Subway to find this Statue of Liberty view point.

But any of the subway stations on the map below (look for the blue M sign) will be in easy walking distance.

You won’t get close-up views from here, but it’s still a great choice if you’re looking for a Statue of Liberty view point!

And if you don’t have the budget for Statue of Liberty tickets, then this was is free, and still gives you a nice view of Lady Liberty from a distance.

Sure, it’s not the best way to see Statue of Liberty, but it’ll do! And she’s still gorgeous, even from far away!

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Option 10: Take a New York City Dinner Cruise

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Cost: Around $80 – $120

For a really special, and one of the best way to see Statue of Liberty, this definitely is an incredible experience (and a romantic one too!).

This is a dinner cruise, but the dinner boat does pass close by to the Statue of Liberty during the cruise time, giving you access to fabulous views and photo opportunities of the Statue of Liberty.

If you’re planning a date night in the city during your vacation – this is a great choice.

If you want to combine a trip to see the Statue of Liberty while having a romantic dinner, then this is the perfect option.

You won’t disembark on the the island (where the Statue of Liberty is) but passing by it is enough to offer lovely views and soak in the scenery.

If you’re wanting to plan something a little bit luxurious and a little bit special – then this is a great way to see the Statue of Liberty, and enjoy some floating Statue of Liberty view points. 

 —  Book dinner cruise Statue of Liberty tickets by clicking here  —

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Option 11: Take a helicopter tour

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Cost: From $180 per person

If you want to see the Statue of Liberty from the sky, instead of the sea – then you simply have to book a helicopter tour that will take you soaring over the Statue of Liberty (and lots of other amazing attractions too).

It’s certainly one of the best ways to see Statue of Liberty, and one of the most memorable.

This isn’t a convention Statue of Liberty view point, but it’s definitely a memorable one!

The views are literally breathtaking (which is why is made our list of the best way to see Statue of Liberty) and it’s a magical angle to see the city from – and in my opinion, one of the best way to see Statue of Liberty.

It’s once-in-a-lifetime for most people, and you’ll never forget it, it’s probably one of the most amazing things I have ever done…

If the average Statue of Liberty tickets aren’t quite enough for you, and you want extra thrills – then a helicopter ride is the ultimate choice for you!

—  Check out my favourite helicopter tour of NYC here  —

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Option 12: One World Observatory 

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Cost: From $30 per person

From NYC’s tallest building, there are the most beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty framed by the other skyscrapers in downtown and wall st. It’s perhaps the most epic Statue of Liberty view point.

They may not be close-up views like some of the tours above, but the views are amazing and you’ll be able to see the whole city from up there too.

Definitely, something not to miss – but make sure you book ahead as it does get busy for this Statue of Liberty view point!

It’s not the best close-up view, or perhaps the best way to see Statue of Liberty – but it’s a great angle to see her from!

I recommend booking ahead for this Statue of Liberty view point, especially as you can choose skip-the-line options (which save you so much time! 

—  Book One World Observatory tickets by clicking here  —

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Option 13: Staten Island Ferry

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Cost: This Statue of Liberty view point is Free!

Next on my list… The Staten Island Ferry!

It’s great because it’s free, and you don’t need to book ahead or anything – just turn up and get in the queue! It’s definitely the cheapest option for Statue of Liberty tickets, because it doesn’t cost a thing.

It’s not an ‘official’ Statue of Liberty view point, but it’s a great way to see her from the water, without paying for a boat tour.

Honestly, this is also one of the best free things to do in the city anyway, which definitely means you should take a trip on this amazing boat!

However, one disadvantage to the Staten Island Ferry is that you don’t get up-close and personal with the Statue of Liberty. This isn’t a Statue of Liberty view point where you’ll see her in much detail.

Also, if the boat is particularly busy, you might struggle to get a glimpse at all. But if you’re willing to take the risk, jump onboard and enjoy this free Statue of Liberty view point. 

To take the ferry, you simply take the subway to South Ferry and then take the free ferry ride across the harbour.

As you take the crossing, you’ll get amazing views of The Statue of Liberty, and whilst you don’t get as close as some of the paid tours, it’s still an incredible outlook!

The Staten Island Ferry operates 24 hours a day and you are allowed to take bicycles on board. This is definitely the best way to see Statue of Liberty if you’re on a tight budget.

On a rainy day – be warned! The view might not be so great from the Staten Island Ferry! See below!

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Option 14: Circle Line, Liberty Cruise

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Cost: Adult $29 Senior $28 Child $23

Next on my list of the best places to see the Statue of Liberty, it’s the Circle Line Cruise.

The Circle Line Liberty Cruise allows you to sail just 100 feet from the Statue of Liberty, giving you the perfect opportunity to take stunning photographs. It’s a great choice when searching for the best way to see Statue of Liberty.

Which definitely qualifies it for this list! A narrated guide is also given, which is nice if you want to learn a little more about the history of the Statue of Liberty.

Onboard facilities include a café and bar, deck space and air-conditioned indoor seating. As one of the most popular Harbour cruises, it is highly recommended that you make an early booking.

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