About the Statue of Liberty Museum

Located on Liberty Island in New York City, the Statue of Liberty Museum features three galleries. These galleries house a unique collection of over 500 photographs and graphics along with artifacts, Lady Liberty’s original torch, and a multimedia theater experience that tells the story of the famous monument from when it was just a thought or an idea to the whole construction process, challenges, and the Statue of Liberty as we know it today.

The 26,000-square-foot museum also offers jaw-dropping views of New York Harbor and Manhattan from its roof deck.

Why Visit the Statue of Liberty Museum?

Explore a unique collection: The museum is home to an extraordinary collection of photographs, artifacts, and graphics that tell the story of the monument’s journey from when it was just an idea to the day it finally opened to the public.
See the original Torch: Get an up-close and personal view of the Statue of Liberty’s most jaw-dropping and awe-inspiring symbol - Lady Liberty’s original torch, located inside the Inspiration Gallery.
Indulge in an immersive theater experience: Take part in a virtual fly-through inside the monument and immerse yourself in a multimedia experience that takes you through the story of the Statue of Liberty and what it stands for.
Take in breathtaking views: Experience breathtaking views of New York Harbor and Manhattan from the roof deck of the museum.

Plan Your Visit to the Statue of Liberty Museum

What are the Museum's Opening Hours?

Timings: 24 hours

Closed: Open throughout the year; timings may differ on Memorial Day

Best time to visit: Weekday mornings

Statue of Liberty Timings

Where is the Museum Located?

The Statue of Liberty Museum is located on Liberty Island, across the statue.

Address: Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004, United States | Find on Maps

Closest landmark: Statue of Liberty, Liberty Island

Directions to the Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty Museum Exhibits

The exhibit at the Statue of Liberty Museum is divided into three galleries - the Immersive Theater, the Engagement Gallery, and the Inspiration Gallery. Engaging and interactive, each gallery takes you through the journey of the conception, construction, and opening of the Statue of Liberty.

The Immersive Theater

A multimedia experience, the Immersive Theater is the first exhibit you will encounter where you get to watch a 10-minute film called The Story of an Icon that depicts the story of when and how the idea of Lady Liberty originated. You will then be taken on a virtual fly-through inside the statue and introduced to Édouard de Laboulaye, the first person to come up with the idea for the monument.

The Engagement Gallery

This gallery features multimedia displays that describe the elaborate process of how sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and his team of artisans built the Statue of Liberty. You get to step inside the warehouse and explore the process of the design, fabrication, and construction of the monument. You will also find displays of Bartholdi’s studio where he brought the statue’s design to life.

The Inspiration Gallery

One of the main highlights of the museum is the original torch of Lady Liberty, housed inside the Inspiration Gallery. Get an up-close look of the most awe-inspiring symbol of the Statue of Liberty, document your visit, and add your portrait to the digital Becoming Liberty collage. Soak in the views of the monument and the New York skyline through the glass walls surrounding the gallery.

The Rooftop Deck

End your tour of the Statue of Liberty Museum by visiting the rooftop deck. Take a moment to marvel at the stunning views of New York Harbor and Manhattan as you walk around this open-air deck. The deck offers a unique 360-degree viewing experience, of the Hudson River and the city's towering skyscrapers.

History of the Museum in a Nutshell

The Statue of Liberty Museum was opened to the public on May 16, 2019, to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history, significance, and symbolism of the Statue of Liberty.

The need for a new museum arose due to the increasing number of visitors to the Statue of Liberty and the desire to enhance the overall experience. The original museum, located inside the statue's pedestal, had limited space and so a new, larger museum was planned and constructed.

The new Statue of Liberty Museum was designed to offer a more engaging and immersive experience. It is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, adjacent to the statue itself. Inside the museum, there are various exhibits that showcase the history and construction of the Statue of Liberty. You get to explore interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and artifacts related to the statue. The exhibits highlight the statue's origins in France, the efforts of the people involved in its creation, and the story of its journey to the United States. One of the key highlights of the museum is the original torch of the Statue of Liberty.

Additionally, the museum features exhibits on the history of immigration in the United States, emphasizing the role of the statue as a symbol of hope and welcome to immigrants arriving in America.

The opening of the new museum was a significant milestone in the ongoing preservation and celebration of the Statue of Liberty. It offers a more enriching experience, allowing you to deepen your understanding of the statue's historical and cultural importance.

Detailed History of the Statue of Liberty

The Original Torch

The original torch was replaced in 1986 due to its deteriorating condition. However, it still holds a significant place in the statue's history and was therefore moved inside the Statue of Liberty Museum. It was designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, and served as a symbol of enlightenment and liberty.

Inside the museum, the original torch is showcased as a centerpiece exhibit. You have the opportunity to get an up-close view of this historic artifact, which has undergone extensive restoration to preserve its original beauty. The exhibit also offers detailed information about the torch's construction, its historical context, and its symbolism as an icon of freedom.

About the torch present today

How Do I Visit the Statue of Liberty Museum?

The Statue of Liberty Museum is located on Liberty Island and is accessible only by ferry. So, hop on a ferry to the island from New York or New Jersey to visit the Statue of Liberty and its museum. A tour of the museum is included in your general tickets to the Statue of Liberty.

A visit to the museum will only enhance your experience and help you look at the statue in a different light.

Book Statue of Liberty tickets & tours

Skip-the-Line Tickets + Ferry: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

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Flexible duration

Audio guide

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Circle Line: Statue of Liberty Cruise

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50 min. - 1 hr.

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Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry

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2 hr. - 4 hr.

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Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise

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1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 min.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Statue of Liberty Museum

Where is the Statue of Liberty Museum?

The Statue of Liberty Museum is located on Liberty Island across from the statue.

Do I need tickets to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum?

Yes, you need to purchase tickets to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum. However, access to the museum is included in your general admission tickets.

How much are tickets to the Statue of Liberty Museum?

Your tickets to the Statue of Liberty include access to the museum. Ticket prices start at $29.

What can I see inside the Statue of Liberty Museum?

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Statue of Liberty depicted through photographs, graphics, artifacts, and a multimedia experience. Don’t miss the panoramic views of New York Harbor and Manhattan from the roof deck at the museum.

What are the must-see highlights of the Statue of Liberty Museum?

A few highlights of the Statue of Liberty Museum include the original torch of Lady Liberty, the Immersive Theater, and the Inspiration and Engagement Galleries that tell the history of the iconic monument in engaging and thought-provoking ways.

What are the Statue of Liberty Museum's opening hours?

The Statue of Liberty Museum is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Is the original torch inside the Statue of Liberty Museum?

Yes, the original torch of Lady Liberty is housed inside the Statue of Liberty Museum.

How long should I spend at the Statue of Liberty Museum?

We suggest setting aside at least an hour for your visit to the Statue of Liberty Museum.

What are the main architectural elements of the Statue of Liberty?

The main highlights of the Statue of Liberty are her Torch, Crown, and massive Pedestal.

Can I take a tour of the museum?

Yes, you can take a tour of the Statue of Liberty Museum with the help of an audio guide available in several languages.

Is access to the museum included in my Statue of Liberty tickets?

Yes, access to the museum is included in your Statue of Liberty tickets.