Visiting New York? Don't miss the Statue of Liberty and Ellis island

The Statue of Liberty is one of the New York City Attractions you should definitely visit if you are planning a trip to the Big Apple.

This infamous monument - which is actually entitled: Liberty Enchanting the World - was a gift to the people of the United States from France in 1886. The copper-clad maiden was dedicated on October 28, 1886 to commemorate the centenary of the Declaration of Independence.

Standing 305ft above Liberty Island the Statue of Liberty welcomes visitors, immigrants and returning Americans.

The statue depicts a robed woman holding aloft a flaming torch; her robes are made from pure copper and her torch flame gold leaf.

From its dedication in 1886 until 1902 the Statue of Liberty acted as a lighthouse over the New York Harbor - today it no longer serves such a purpose, but as one of New York's most recognisable landmarks it attracts numerous tourists.

To visit the statue you need to catch the ferry from Battery Park - tickets are available from the small brick building next to the jetty. Arrive early to beat the lines - and to collect a timed pass so that you can go inside the base of the statue - you can go up to the observation deck at the top of the pedestal and get some great views of Staten Island and Lower Manhatten.

Ellis Island Immigration Museum

Following the restoration in the 1980's the Main Building opened as the Ellis Island Immigration Museum - in memory of America's immigrant heritage. Museum exhibits tell the story of Ellis Island's role in immigration history as well as giving a voice to the immigrants themselves. Each unique story conveys the courage and determination behind a decision to leave home and seek opportunities in a foreign land.

The exhibits include photographs, prints, videos and interactive displays as well as museum objects. The largest exhibit is the building itself, a French Renaissance Revival structure which was designed by Boring and Tilton and restored to its 1918-1924 appearance.

Ellis Island is also accessible via the ferry - it is the last stop on the way back to Manhatten.

The Statue of Liberty

Further exhibits can be found inside the base of the Statue herself. The Statue of Liberty exhibit traces the history and the symbolism of the statue through photographs and artifacts. The Torch exhibit includes the original 1886 flame and on the inner wall of the pedestal, visitors can see Emma Lazarus' famous sonnet - the New Colossus.

Getting there

The Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum are just a short ferry ride away from Battery Park.

Ferry boats depart daily from 9am through 3.30pm.

Adult entry - $12

Child entry - $5

For more information on attractions you can experience during your trip to New York visit Luxury Vacation Package Ideas.