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Statue of Liberty entrances: Your comprehensive visitor guide

Which entrance should you use for the Statue of Liberty

There are two official ferry entrances to reach Liberty Island, and the best one for you depends on where you’re coming from and how you’re visiting.

  • Shortest queues (most days): Liberty State Park – Quieter than Manhattan, with ample parking and a more relaxed boarding experience.
  • Skip-the-line / timed tickets: Battery Park – Use the designated ticket holders lane near Castle Clinton.
  • Guided tours meet here: Battery Park – Most guided tours assemble outside Castle Clinton; follow the meeting point listed on your voucher.
  • Wheelchair access: Both Battery Park and Liberty State Park offer step-free routes, accessible security screening, and wheelchair-friendly ferries.

All visitors pass through airport-style security before boarding, so plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early, especially during peak seasons.

How many ways are there to visit the Statue of Liberty?

Battery Park Entrance (New York)

Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park serves as the primary departure point for visitors traveling from New York City. The entrance to the ferry terminal is near Castle Clinton National Monument, a historic fort turned visitor center.

Address: The Battery, New York, NY 10004, United States | Find on Maps

Nearby Attractions: The SeaGlass Carousel, and The Sphere.

Liberty State Park Entrance (New Jersey)

For those coming from New Jersey, Liberty State Park offers a quieter and less crowded alternative. The ferry departs from the Liberty State Park Ferry Terminal, which has ample parking, making it an excellent choice for those driving their own vehicles.

Address: 1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States | Find on Maps

Nearby Attractions: Liberty Science Center and Empty Sky Memorial.

How to get to the two entrances

Battery Park (New York)

  • By subway: Take the 4, 5 (Bowling Green), 1 (South Ferry), or R, W (Whitehall Street) lines.
    Nearest station: Whitehall St-South Ferry (1-min walk)
  • By bus: Routes M5, M15, and M20 stop nearby.
    Nearest station: State St/Bridge St (1-min walk)
  • By car: Limited street parking is available; paid parking garages like City Parking and State Pearl Garage are a short 3 to 5-minute walk away.
  • By bike/walking: Battery Park is accessible via several bike paths and pedestrian-friendly streets.

Liberty State Park (New Jersey)

  • By car: On-site parking is available at Liberty State Park.
  • By public transit: Take the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail to Liberty Park Station, which is a 20-minute walk to the ferry terminal.
    Nearest station: Liberty State Park
  • By bike/walking: The park has scenic bike and walking paths leading to the ferry terminal.

Wheelchair accessibility

  • Arrive early: Security checks can take time, so arrive at least 30 minutes before your ferry departure for a hassle-free entry experience.
  • Bring valid ID: Bring your tickets along with a government ID.
  • Check parking needs: If you require parking, plan ahead and find the nearest garage or lot beforehand to save time and energy on the day of your visit.
  • Prohibited items: Make sure you aren’t carrying items that are not allowed on the ferry, such as large bags, weapons, and hazardous materials.

Frequently asked questions about the Statue of Liberty entrance

How many entrances are there to visit the Statue of Liberty?

There are two official ferry departure points to reach Liberty Island: Battery Park in New York and Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

What are the ferry departure times?

Ferries depart from Battery Park and Liberty State Park at regular intervals, usually starting at 8:30am. Find more information about the Statue of Liberty and ferry hours on this page.

Can I take photographs at the entrance and on the ferry?

Yes, photography is allowed at the entrance and on your ferry ride. However, do not bring professional photography equipment, including tripods and drones.

Which entrance should I use if I’m visiting from New York City?

If you are staying in Manhattan, use Battery Park, located at the southern tip of the island near Castle Clinton. It’s easily accessible by subway, bus, and on foot.

Which entrance usually has shorter lines?

​Liberty State Park generally has shorter queues, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s a popular choice for visitors driving in from New Jersey due to its on-site parking.

Is wheelchair access available at both entrances?

Yes. Both Battery Park and Liberty State Park offer step-free access, wheelchair-friendly security screening, and accessible ferries to Liberty Island.

Do both entrances offer the same ferry experience?

Yes. Ferries from Battery Park and Liberty State Park provide the same access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, with identical sightseeing and onboard services.

Are security checks mandatory?

Yes. All visitors pass through airport-style security screening before boarding the ferry, regardless of ticket type or entrance used.

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