Private Statue of Liberty Express Tour
The quickest and easiest way to experience the Statue of Liberty
-
Local experts
Personal stories and insider travel tips -
Top-rated
Thousands of reviews averaging 4.9 stars -
Worry-free booking
Flexible scheduling and refunds
Highlights
- Take advantage of reserved-time ferry tickets so you avoid the crowds and save time.
- Learn how Lady Liberty has changed over the decades.
- Explore the Liberty Island grounds with your guide for beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Visit the Statue of Liberty Museum to see “flames” from the statue’s torch, part of its structure, and more.
- Pick up practical tips from your guide on how to make the most of your time in NYC.
- Get access to Ellis Island, home to the Museum of Immigration, if you want to extend your trip.











What you'll do
Explore Lady Liberty on a private tour designed to maximize your time in NYC. Start at Battery Park, where your guide will meet you by historic Castle Clinton, a former fort with its own fascinating past. Then it’s straight to the ferry with priority access, so you’ll skip the long lines and head right to ...
Explore Lady Liberty on a private tour designed to maximize your time in NYC. Start at Battery Park, where your guide will meet you by historic Castle Clinton, a former fort with its own fascinating past. Then it’s straight to the ferry with priority access, so you’ll skip the long lines and head right to Liberty Island.
On the way over, your guide will share stories about the statue’s creation, its evolving meaning as a symbol of freedom, and how it became one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Once ashore, enjoy a guided walk around the grounds plus tips on what to see inside the free Statue of Liberty Museum, home to original pieces like the statue’s torch and structural elements that reveal how this colossal figure was built.
After the guided portion of our private Statue of Liberty tour, you’ll have free time to spend longer on Liberty Island or continue on to Ellis Island. There, you can visit the National Museum of Immigration inside the former processing center, where millions of newcomers first set foot in America. With a private guide by your side, this tour ensures a seamless, memorable visit to the Statue of Liberty — without wasting a moment of your trip.
Itinerary
-
Castle Clinton
The sandstone fort that doubles as our meeting point and a national monument
-
Ferry
With beautiful views along the way
-
Statue of Liberty
Where can tour the grounds and visit the Statue of Liberty Museum
-
Ellis Island
An optional stop if you want to extend your trip
Reviews
Meeting point
Where we meet
Castle Clinton National Monument, Battery Park - Liberty Island, New York, NY, USA
Your guide will be on the steps outside of the north entrance of Castle Clinton holding an orange flag. This is the entrance facing the buildings in Manhattan.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour’s guided portion lasts around 2 hours. After the tour ends on Liberty Island, you’re free to remain as long as you want before returning to Battery Park. This trip includes a return boat ticket to Manhattan.
How much walking is there?
We’ll be on our feet for most of the tour, and there are some stairs. The ferry ride over has some limited seating, and at Liberty Island, your guide will lead you on a walking tour of the grounds to point out the different sights.
What can we bring?
You should plan for security screenings before entering the ferry. Persons and property are subject to search. Prohibited items include weapons, locking blades, tools, non-folding umbrellas, tripods, laptops, tablet keyboards, coolers, luggage, drones, sewing kits, lighter fluid, and anything propelled by aerosol.
Is the Statue of Liberty Museum included in this tour?
The National Park Service does not allow any guiding inside the Statue of Liberty Museum, but your guide will give you a thorough introduction to the museum so you can explore it on your own and know what to look for.
Is a visit to Ellis Island included?
The guided portion of this tour doesn’t include Ellis Island since this is an express trip. (If you’d like to visit Ellis Island with our guide, we recommend our Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour.) Your ferry ticket includes access to both islands, although for afternoon tours, there may not be enough time to visit Ellis Island.
Are pedestal and crown access included in my tour?
No, these are not included in your tour. Guided tours are not allowed in the pedestal or crown at the Statue of Liberty.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, this tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 24 hours before your tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine, so please check the local forecast to plan. In rare cases when we have to cancel for extreme weather, we’ll offer you the chance to reschedule or give a full refund.
What about gratuities?
Tips are always appreciated but never expected. They’re a great way to tell your guide they did an awesome job and show your appreciation.