Climb inside the Statue of Liberty all the way to the Crown — 354 steps above New York Harbor — for a jaw-dropping close-up of Lady Liberty's torch and harbor views through small porthole windows. Crown permits are strictly limited and sell out months in advance.
What to expect
Board the official Statue Cruises ferry from Battery Park and cross New York Harbor to Liberty Island. After touring the newly expanded Museum, begin the spiral ascent through the pedestal and into the statue's iron armature — the engineering marvel Gustave Eiffel designed. At the Crown, peer through 25 small windows looking down over the harbor, Ellis Island, and lower Manhattan. Continue to Ellis Island to walk the Immigrant Registry Room, connecting personal or American history in a profound way.
Good to know
Crown permits sell out up to six months ahead — book the moment your itinerary is confirmed. The ferry departs Battery Park, roughly 20 minutes by taxi from the Hudson River terminals. Allow a full 5–6 hours for both islands. Sensible footwear essential; the Crown climb is not suitable for those with mobility concerns.