Some visitors to the Statue of Liberty arrive in search of the first thing their ancestors laid eyes on upon landing in the New World. Others come to fulfill a fascination with an image so recognizable, she has achieved something like celebrity status. Whatever the purpose, Lady Liberty will not disappoint. As one of America's most iconic images, a pilgrimage to this symbol of liberty and peace is a must.
Parking and public transportation to the Statue of Liberty
Statue Cruises is the official ferry service provider. Ferries depart from Battery Park, which is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. Parking is limited so driving isn't recommended. Tickets to depart from Liberty State Park in New Jersey are also available, where paid parking spaces are plentiful.
Best and worst time to go to the Statue of Liberty
Winter weekdays, barring major holidays, draw the fewest number of tourists. Prepare for long lines at the ferry terminal during summer months; wait times can stretch to over an hour. If you're set on visiting during the summer, try to book tickets for as early in the morning as possible.
Admission to the Statue of Liberty
Three options are offered: Reserve Only, Pedestal, or Crown. Crown access typically sells out up to three months in advance. Same-day pedestal access may be available at the ticket office in Battery Park, but online advance reservations are highly recommended. Adult admission begins at $18, and all ticket options include ferry service to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, and audio tours of both places.
Must see/do at the Statue of Liberty
The climb to the Statue's crown involves a narrow, winding staircase with a grand total of 354 steps. This may not be suitable for every visitor. The pedestal, however, should not be missed. Pedestal access includes entrance to the Liberty Island museum, where visitors can view the Statue's original torch, and peruse exhibits that explain her conception, engineering, and delicate transport from France to America. The pedestal's observation deck offers gorgeous views of New York's harbor and skyline, and unique vantage points of the Statue's imposing 151-foot height.
Other places to visit near the Statue of Liberty
Battery Park's waterfront promenade is a scenic place to relax. For those who wish to continue on the trail of history, head to the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, which is now home to the National Museum of the American Indian. The famous Charging Bull of Wall Street is also a short walk away.
Insider tip for visitors to the Statue of Liberty
Plan well ahead for this one. Buy online tickets as far in advance as possible, print your tickets before arriving at the ferry terminal, and get there at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for the airport style security screening. The Statue's busiest days come with a dose of chaos, so be infinitely patient and ask the nice folks manning the lines for help if you're unsure of anything.
Author's bio: Michele DeBella is a freelance writer based in New York City, where her ancestors saw the Statue of Liberty as they began their new lives in the New World.
Famous for standing on the site where George Washington took his presidential oath, this building is now a museum and memorial devoted to the birth of the United States government. It is run by the National Park Service.
Best and worst times to go to the Federal Hall National Memorial
The area surrounding Federal Hall can be crowded and crazy when traders are entering or leaving the nearby Stock Exchange, so it's best to avoid entering or leaving the building at 9:30 a.m. or 4 p.m.
Must see/do at the Federal Hall National Memorial
Don't leave Federal Hall without a glimpse of the George Washington Inaugural Bible, which is on display in the Inaugural Gallery on the first floor. And note that although the tours provided by the National Park Rangers may take longer than the self-guided tour, they are well worth your time.
Admission to the Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; it is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday of November) and Christmas Day (December 25). Admission is free.
Parking and Public Transportation to the Federal Hall National Memorial
Note that because of security concerns, no cars are allowed on the section of Wall Street immediately outside of Federal Hall. In addition, street parking in lower Manhattan is extremely limited and parking garages in the area are expensive. Therefore, public transit is the best option when you are visiting Federal Hall. By subway, take the 2 or 3 to Wall & Williams Streets; the 4 or 5 to Wall Street & Broadway; the J or Z to Broad Street; the 1 to Rector Street; the R to Rector Street; or the A or C to Fulton Street. Or take the M5 bus.
Insider tip for visitors to the Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall has long been a focal point for free speech and new ideas, and the National Park Service encourages citizens to exercise their First Amendment rights. As a result, you will often see protests and demonstrations on the front steps.
Other places to visit near the Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall is located on Wall Street in New York City's financial district, just steps away from the Museum of American Finance and the New York Stock Exchange. A short walk will take you to the 9/11 Memorial and the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Author's Bio: Victoria Franzese is a proud New Yorker who owned, operated, and wrote for a successful online travel guide for 15 years. Now, thankfully, all of her travel is purely for fun. See where she's going next at @VOFranzese.
Governors Island is a 172-acre island off the coast of Manhattan and Brooklyn that once served as a post for the US Army and US Coast Guard. Currently, Fort Jay and Castle Williams are restored as national monuments and are part of a 92-acre national historic district that is open to the public during summer and early fall every year. A variety of events are held during the summer like concerts, walking tours, bike riding, fairs and festivals -- all of which are perfect for travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path discoveries.
Parking and public transportation to Governors Island
There are no cars allowed on the island. Access is only allowed to the public by ferries that leave every half-hour. A direct ferry leaves from the Financial District in Manhattan. A direct ferry leaves Brooklyn from Pier 6, near Brooklyn Heights. The East River Ferry also circles between Governors Island and parts of Brooklyn (Dumbo, Williamsburg and Greenpoint).
Best and worst time to go to Governors Island
The best time to go is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Ferry schedules vary but expect them to run starting at 10 a.m. The last ferry usually leaves by 5:30 p.m. Avoid hopping on the ferry too close to the island's closing time.
Admission to Governors Island
Prices vary according to season. If using the East River Ferry, the cost to ride is approximately $4-5 plus $1 for bikes. The direct ferries from Manhattan and Brooklyn are usually free.
Must see/do at Governors Island
A schedule listing the various fairs and festivals is posted every year. Biking is a must and is the best way to see the whole island in less than a day. There is a bike path along the water that circles the entire island as well as paths that lead in and out of the fields and hills. Fort Jay is a fantastic ruin that is overgrown by healthy grass and vines -- perfect for the adventure traveler.
Insider tip for visitors to Governors Island
There is a small beach and a music venue called Governors Beach Club on the northern tip of the island. They host numerous concerts and events in the summer and there is also food and beer for sale for the casual visitor. The view of the lower Manhattan skyline is stunning.
Author's bio: Emilia Navarro is a freelance travel writer based in Brooklyn.