To visit Ellis Island, take a Statue City Cruises ferry from either Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. All tickets include access to both Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
The best approach is to start early, reserve your ticket online in advance, and allow at least three hours to explore the Immigration Museum and historic grounds. Security screening is required before boarding. Expect a one-way ferry ride of about 15 minutes.
In this article, I’ll share the most efficient way to visit Ellis Island, key tips for first-timers, how long to spend there, and practical advice that goes beyond what most guides include.
Where to Start Your Ellis Island Visit?
You can begin your trip to Ellis Island from two official ferry departure points operated by Statue City Cruises: Battery Park in Lower Manhattan (New York) or Liberty State Park in Jersey City (New Jersey). Both locations offer direct access to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, but each has its advantages.
| Departure Location | Best For | Transportation Options | Parking |
| Battery Park (NYC) | Visitors staying in Manhattan or nearby | Subway (4/5 to Bowling Green, 1 to South Ferry, R to Whitehall St), taxis, ferries | Limited or expensive nearby garages |
| Liberty State Park (NJ) | Visitors driving in from New Jersey or with families | Ample car access, light rail (Hudson-Bergen Light Rail), rideshare | Free parking is available on site |
Battery Park is the more popular departure point, especially for tourists staying in Manhattan. Expect longer lines, especially during weekends and holidays.
Liberty State Park, on the other hand, is often less crowded, making it a better option for families or those seeking shorter wait times. It also offers ample free parking, which can make a significant difference if you’re driving.
How to Visit Ellis Island?
- Board the ferry from Battery Park (NY) or Liberty State Park (NJ)
- Explore the Museum of Immigration and the restored Great Hall
- Book a guided tour or use an audio guide for historical context
- Access is included with the Statue of Liberty ferry ticket
- Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy uninterrupted views of NYC
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How to Buy Ferry Tickets to Ellis Island?
The only authorized ferry provider to Ellis Island is Statue City Cruises. Tickets always include access to both Ellis Island and Liberty Island; you cannot purchase a ticket to Ellis Island alone.
Ticket Types:
| Ticket Type | Includes | Best For | Price (approx) |
| General Admission | Ferry ride + Ellis Island + Statue Grounds | First-time visitors, budget-conscious | $24 adults |
| Pedestal Access | Everything above + pedestal of the Statue | Those wanting closer Statue access | $24–$26 |
| Crown Access (limited) | All access + Statue crown interior | Must book months ahead; limited slots | $24–$30 |
Where to Buy:
- statuecitycruises.com (recommended)
- Official ticket booths at Battery Park and Liberty State Park
- Avoid third-party resellers or street vendors — scams are common
Pro Tips:
- Buy online in advance to secure your preferred time slot
- Morning departures offer fewer crowds and cooler weather
- Tickets often sell out, especially pedestal and crown options
- Children under 4 ride free, and discounted rates are available for seniors
Each ticket includes ferry service to both islands, so plan accordingly to manage your time.
What to Expect on the Ferry Ride?
Before boarding, all passengers must pass through a TSA-style security screening. You’ll need to empty your pockets, remove belts, and place bags through scanners. Water bottles are permitted, but please refrain from carrying oversized backpacks.
Ferry Ride Details:
- Duration: 15–20 minutes one way
- Departure Frequency: Every 25–40 minutes (seasonal)
- Onboard: Two decks, restrooms, covered and open seating, snack bar
- Views: Panoramic skyline views, Statue of Liberty photo ops
- Accessibility: Ferries are fully accessible with ramps and elevators
Food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed onboard, but large items like wheeled luggage or coolers are prohibited.
Best Time of Day and Season to Visit Ellis Island
Planning your visit around timing can significantly affect your experience.
Best Time of Day:
- Morning (first departure): Shortest security line, cooler weather, less crowded ferry
- Midday: Busiest time; expect long waits, especially on weekends
- Afternoon (after 2 PM): Quieter, but may feel rushed due to the last ferry departure
Best Days to Visit:
- Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) offer a more relaxed pace
- Avoid weekends, school holidays, and federal holidays unless necessary
Best Seasons:
| Season | Pros | Cons |
| Spring (Apr–Jun) | Mild weather, fewer crowds | Rain is possible |
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | Full hours, family-friendly vibe | Heat and long lines |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | Comfortable weather, colorful views | School groups may visit |
| Winter (Nov–Mar) | Lowest crowds, peaceful | Cold, some exhibits may be closed |
Allocate 3–5 hours total for both islands. Bring water, sunscreen in summer, and dress in layers during colder months.
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What to See Inside the Ellis Island Immigration Museum?
The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is the core attraction. It spans three floors and tells the story of over 12 million immigrants who passed through its doors from 1892 to 1954.
Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss:
- The Great Hall (Registry Room): The heart of the museum, where immigrants were processed and restored to its 1918 appearance.
- American Immigrant Wall of Honor: Located outdoors, engraved with over 775,000 immigrant names.
- Journeys: The Peopling of America (1550–Present): An exhibit that broadens the immigration story before and after Ellis Island’s peak years.
- Baggage Room: Ground-floor exhibit area showing what arrivals encountered upon disembarking.
- Hearing Room and Dormitories: Preserved areas that reflect the lived experiences of detained immigrants.
- Family History Center: A searchable database for visitors looking to trace ancestry.
Tour Options:
- Self-Guided: Includes signage, displays, and audio elements.
- Audio Tour: Free with ferry ticket; available in 12 languages.
- Park Ranger Tours: Offered at select times daily, lasting ~30 minutes.
Set aside at least 90 minutes for the museum alone, more if you’re interested in the interactive exhibits or researching family history.
How to Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty?
Tips to Make the Most of Your Ellis Island Visit
To avoid common mistakes and get the best experience, keep the following in mind:
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll cover a lot of ground)
- Water bottle (permitted after security)
- Sunscreen and weather-appropriate layers
- Valid ID (required for pedestal and crown access)
- Small daypack or crossbody bag (no lockers available)
Facilities:
- Food: A cafeteria is available on both islands. Outside food is allowed, but it must be carried in your bag.
- Restrooms: Located on both ferries and inside the museum.
- Accessibility: Elevators, ramps, and wheelchairs are available at both islands.
Family & Group Travel:
- Strollers are allowed on ferries and throughout the museum.
- Audio tours are kid-friendly and educational.
- Recommend headphones or earbuds for a better audio experience.
Cell Signal & Connectivity:
- Cell service is limited indoors.
- Free public WiFi is available in some museum areas, but not reliable throughout.
Plan, travel light, and leave room in your schedule in case you want to linger longer than expected.
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Can You Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty on the Same Day?
Yes, and most visitors do both on a single round-trip ferry ticket. With the right timing, visiting both islands in one day is very manageable.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Time | Activity |
| 8:30 AM | Arrive at the departure point |
| 9:00 AM | Board the ferry to Liberty Island (1st stop) |
| 9:30–11:00 AM | Explore the Statue of Liberty |
| 11:00 AM | Ferry to Ellis Island |
| 11:15–1:00 PM | Tour the Immigration Museum, and have lunch |
| 1:30 PM | Return ferry to the departure point |
Tips:
- Start early to avoid lines and leave time for both islands.
- If crown access is booked, do it first — it’s time-specific and can’t be rescheduled.
- Consider bringing a printed itinerary for self-guidance.
Each island deserves time, but with proper planning, you won’t feel rushed.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting Ellis Island
Here you can find a few commonly asked questions about the topic of How to Visit Ellis Island. Let’s check them out.
Do I need an ID to visit Ellis Island?
Only if your ticket includes access to the Statue pedestal or crown. General admission does not require an ID.
Are pets allowed?
No. Only service animals are permitted on ferries and in the museum.
Can I visit Ellis Island without visiting the Statue of Liberty?
No. All tickets include access to both islands; you cannot buy an Ellis Island-only ticket.
How long can I stay on Ellis Island?
As long as the ferry operates. There is no time limit, but the last return ferry leaves by 5:00–5:30 PM, depending on the season.
Is there a lost and found?
Yes, at both ferry terminals and inside the museum information desks.
Is it safe to leave and reboard later?
No re-entry is allowed. Once you leave an island, you continue forward on the ferry loop.
