Having admired Lady Liberty from afar many times on previous trips to New York City, I finally decided to get up close and personal with her last February – and she did not disappoint! In this guide, I’ll provide you with everything you need to know about the Statue of Liberty, New York, to make the most of your visit, including tips for climbing up to the crown.
A glimpse into history
For centuries, the Statue of Liberty has welcomed immigrants and visitors from around the globe with her torch held high, a timeless representation of enlightenment and opportunity. A gift from France to the United States in 1886, the statue was designed by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and engineered by Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower. Standing at a towering height of 305 feet (93 metres) from ground level to torch, Lady Liberty holds a tablet inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence and wears a crown adorned with seven rays representing the seven continents and seas. In 1984, the original torch of the Statue of Liberty was carefully removed due to structural concerns and replaced with a replica that followed Bartholdi’s original design. The iconic torch is now on display in the Statue of Liberty Museum.
Tickets and reservations
To access the pedestal and crown of the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need to purchase tickets in advance through the official Statue Cruises website. These tickets often sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it’s essential to plan ahead. Keep in mind that separate tickets are required for pedestal access and crown access. On the website you’ll also find the current ticket prices.
Getting there
Your adventure begins at Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, where you’ll board a ferry operated by Statue Cruises. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the New York City skyline and takes approximately 15–20 minutes to reach Liberty Island.
Climbing to the pedestal
If you’ve purchased tickets that include access to the pedestal, you’ll have the opportunity to ascend to an observation deck located within the statue’s pedestal. The journey involves climbing a series of stairs or taking a lift up to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of New York Harbor and the surrounding area.
Ascending to the crown
For those seeking the ultimate Statue of Liberty experience, climbing up to the crown is a must-do activity. The climb to the crown involves navigating a very narrow spiral staircase – there are 162 steps from the top of the pedestal (from the statue’s feet) up to the crown. There is no lift access, so it’s important to note that this ascent can be physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with mobility issues or a fear of heights. However, once up in the crown, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring views of New York Harbor and the city beyond, as well as the opportunity to capture unforgettable photos.
Tips for climbing up to the crown
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for climbing stairs. It can get warm climbing up the stairs, so I recommend leaving coats and jackets in the lockers on the ground level.
- Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the climb.
- Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Take your time and pace yourself during the ascent. It’s not a race!
- Be prepared for security checks before entering the crown area. As you enter the crown, you’ll be greeted by National Park Service Rangers who are there to assist you and answer any questions.
- Bags cannot be taken up to the crown, but there are lockers for storing your items, so don’t forget to bring some quarters with you (although if you do forget, there are change machines available).
Conclusion
Visiting the Statue of Liberty and climbing to the crown is an experience unlike any other. From the ferry ride to Liberty Island to the exhilarating ascent to the top of the statue, every moment of this journey is filled with history, culture and incredible views. So don’t miss your chance to explore this iconic symbol of freedom and democracy on your next trip to New York City!