Statue of Liberty | Manhattan

The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, USA.

It represents freedom and democracy, a gift from the people of France to the United States.

Visual Characteristics

The statue stands 46 meters (151 feet) tall, with its pedestal adding an additional 47 meters (154 feet). It is constructed from copper sheets hammered into shape over a steel framework. The exterior copper has oxidized to a green patina. The figure holds a torch in her right hand and a tablet inscribed with the date of the U.S. Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776) in her left. She wears a robe and a crown with seven spikes, representing the seven continents and seven seas.

Location & Access Logistics

Liberty Island is accessible via ferry service operated by Statue City Cruises. Ferries depart from Battery Park in Manhattan, New York, and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. The ferry ticket includes access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. There is no public road access to Liberty Island. Parking is available at Battery Park and Liberty State Park, with associated fees. Bus lines M55, M20, and M15 serve Battery Park. Subway lines 1, R, and W stop at South Ferry/Whitehall Street, near Battery Park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and its metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886. The statue was conceived as a symbol of friendship between France and the United States and to commemorate the centennial of American independence. The island itself is an artificial construct, built up from earth and rock to support the statue's foundation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk around the base of the statue and explore the museum located within the pedestal. Access to the crown requires a separate, pre-booked ticket and involves climbing 354 steps. Pedestal access also requires a timed ticket. Ranger-led talks are offered on the island. Photography is permitted throughout the island.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on Liberty Island. Shade is provided by trees and covered areas near the ferry docks and the pedestal. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food and beverage concessions are located within the pedestal building.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography of the statue, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The best months for weather are typically April through October, with lower visitor numbers and milder temperatures. Ferry tickets, especially for crown access, should be booked several months in advance. High tide or low tide does not impact access to the island.

Facts & Legends

The statue was originally intended to be placed at the northern end of the Suez Canal in Egypt, but the project was abandoned. The torch was replaced in 1986 during a centennial renovation; the original torch is now on display in the Statue of Liberty Museum.

Nearby Landmarks

• Ellis Island Immigration Museum (0.8km West)
• Battery Park (2.5km North)
• Federal Hall (2.8km North)
• Wall Street (3.1km North)
• One World Observatory (3.5km North)