How to see the Statue of Liberty for Free

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and there is a way to see it FOR FREE!

The Best Way to Visit the Statue of Liberty

Visiting (meaning “getting on”) Liberty Island is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty! You must take the ferry to the island to see her up close, explore the pedestal, or even enter the crown. This comes at a cost.

With our Sightseeing Tour, you get priority tickets and don’t have to worry about anything because the guide will buy the tickets for you and guide you through Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

However, the fact that you are reading this article indicates that you are looking for the best way to see the Statue of Liberty for FREE.

Here below our tips and suggestion.

The best way to see the Statue of Liberty for Free

The best way to enjoy the view of the Statue of Liberty for free is called Staten Island Ferry.

Wait… a free ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty? YES, but this is not the main meaning of the Staten Island Ferry. This ferry is a commuter ferry that connects Manhattan and Staten Island. It is used by thousands of people every day who need to travel between these two New York Boroughs for work or personal reasons.

However, and here’s the good news, you can get a great view of the Statue of Liberty and, even better, the New York City skyline from the ferry… FOR FREE!

Questions & Answers About the Staten Island Ferry

Where can I get the Staten Island Ferry?

You can take the ferry from Whitehall Terminal.

 

How to get to Whitehall Terminal?

Take the 1 subway line from Times Square to South Ferry. The dock is only a few steps away from the subway exit.

 

What will happen when I arrive on Staten Island?

You must disembark the ferry and re-enter through the departure decks. But don’t worry, it’s extremely simple.

 

How long is the Travel Time?

The Travel Time is about 25 minutes.

 

When do you advise me not to take the ferry?

During rush hour as the ferries are completely full. This is not the time to go for a leisurely ride.

 

How frequently does the ferry run?

The ferry operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During the weekday rush hours of 6:00AM-9:30AM and 3:30PM-8:00PM, more frequent service (every 15 or 20 minutes) is provided, with 30-minute service following. On Saturdays and Sundays, service is provided every 30 minutes. To get exact departure times, consult the full schedule.

 

What is the distance between the Statue of Liberty and the Ferry?

A half-mile / 1 kilometer.

 

Do you have any scams you’d like to report to me?

YES! People selling Staten Island Ferry tickets can be found right outside the terminal in Manhattan. DO NOT PURCHASE TICKETS FROM THEM. IT IS A FRAUD. The ferry to Staten Island is always free.

 

We have also an article about 3 Times Square Scams… Make sure you read it before you travel to NYC.

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