Ellis Island Attractions & Things to do

Explore NYC's iconic landmarks and soak in breathtaking views of the city in just 90 minutes! With multiple departures throughout the day, including a sunset cruise and evening city lights option, cruise down the majestic Hudson River, passing by Hudson Yards, with the towering One World Trade Center and Ellis Island as your backdrop, until you're within arm's reach of the Statue of Liberty. Marvel at the sights of lower Manhattan before sailing under the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. Then, embark on a brief journey up the East River before returning to Pier 78 in midtown. Surely a memory that will last a lifetime, especially since we will capture it for you with complimentary digital photos throughout your trip!

Relax in style aboard our modern, temperature-controlled boats, featuring spacious indoor and outdoor decks. Take advantage of the onboard Snack Bar, offering delectable food and drinks, including a full bar. The perfect opportunity to reload while taking in the city sites.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Hear the stories of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island and learn about the creation and symbolism of the Statue of Liberty.

On this guided tour, your expert New Yorker will get your reserve-line ferry tickets and ride with you to Liberty Island and afterward, if you select our Comprehensive Tour, to Ellis Island for a tour of the landmarks around the island, such as the wall of honour. Once the tour ends, the exploration doesn't stop there as you can continue inside the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration to explore its multiple floors at your own pace. An audio guide is included to help. You’ll also have time to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum as your guide prepares you for what you’ll see inside.

Our Liberty Express option offers a 2 hour guided tour across the water, and on Liberty Island, where you'll learn all about the Statue of Liberty and our expert guide will also give you facts and tips if you wanted to visit the museum on your own after the tour.
Duration: 3 to 5 hours.

Experience the beauty of the New York Harbor including an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty on this helicopter ride over NY. If you think New York City is impressive from the ground, you haven't seen anything until you experience it from the air.

Explore classic NYC landmarks including: One World Observatory, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Chelsea Piers, The Intrepid Museum, Central Park and Time Square.
Duration: 12 to 15 minutes.

Seated in comfort, experience all the sights of Manhattan from the air on a 17-20 minute helicopter flight. Enjoy bird's-eye views of top Manhattan attractions including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, the Chrysler Building, the World Financial Center, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge. Continue up the Hudson River to the northern point of Manhattan, where you can see the George Washington Bridge, the New Jersey Palisades, Yankee Stadium, Cathedral of St. John the Divine, and Columbia University.


Duration: 17 to 20 minutes.

All aboard for a bird’s-eye view of Manhattan on a helicopter tour of top New York City sights. See Central Park, the Hudson River, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building, and fly past the Statue of Liberty, South Street Seaport, and the 150-year-old Brooklyn Bridge. Treat yourself to all this plus even more of New York's famous skyline. Several departure times are available throughout the day.


Duration: 12 to 15 minutes.

See the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and building up close on this popular helicopter tour of New York City, while taking off and landing out of Manhattan Heliport. This is a one-of-kind pilot narrated modern and historical tour.

As you soar above the city that never sleeps, take a look at all NYC has to offer. You’ll see attractions such as: One World Trade Center, Empire State Building, Times Square, The Intrepid Museum, Central Park, Yankees Stadium and Columbia University.
Duration: 17 to 20 minutes.

What better way to take in New York City's most iconic landmarks, than sailing along the Hudson River? From the majestic Statue of Liberty to the towering Freedom Tower, our cruise provides unparalleled views of some of the city's most famous sights.

Once aboard our serene, eco-conscious vessel, you will unlock the magic of New York City in all its glory. Take a perfect selfie with Lady Liberty on our open-air rooftop deck and enjoy our cozy indoor space complete with a full-service bar and concession area, available year-round. Book now for an unparalleled adventure through the heart of the Big Apple!
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.

Feel the history while flying over true American treasures on the Taste of NYC Tour.

On this tour you will fly over Ellis and Governors Island where you will experience the Statue of Liberty and the first taste of freedom for millions of immigrants.

You will also see the South Street Seaport from the sky, cruise by the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and the famed Wall Street Financial Center on this much loved New York helicopter tour.
Duration: 12 to 15 minutes.

Highlights
- Save time by prebooking ferry tickets to Liberty Island & Ellis Island
- Pick a ticket option to suit your budget and travel style
- Choose a departure time that fits in with your schedule

Grab your ticket to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island in advance to avoid the long ticket lines. Enjoy a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island & Explore America’s most iconic landmarks. Choose between 4 options:
- Statue Standard Ticket: Enjoy a standard timed ferry ticket to Liberty Island and Ellis Island
- Statue Reserve Ticket Pre-ferry: Upgrade to include a pre-ferry orientation tour, multilingual audio tours and priority boarding for the ferry.
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Guided Tour: Upgrade further to include an expert local guide on the ferry & around Liberty Island and Ellis Island
- Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island & 9/11 Memorial Guided Tour: Enjoy the most complete tour where you are guided around the 9/11 Memorial, Ground Zero & Wall St.
Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

Grab your friends or that special someone and get ready for two-and-a-half hours of real New York fun departing from Chelsea Piers! This New York dinner cruise includes an attended chef-prepared buffet, fun DJ music with dancing and breathtaking views of the New York skyline from the interior dining decks and outside rooftop lounge. Creative cocktails, wine and beer available from the well-stocked cash bar.

Enjoy iconic skyline views of Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and more! You will get a great view of Lady Liberty from the boat and get to take amazing photos.

Don't wait - add this dinner cruise to your New York itinerary today!

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Take to the skies on a helicopter tour to see New York's amazing skyline! On this scenic 18-20-minute helicopter flight you'll soar through the sky and experience a bird's eye view of Manhattan's world famous landmarks. This is the best view you can get of New York City!
Duration: 20 minutes.

The only way to see New York City at night by air! Departing from Essex County Airport in New Jersey, this is your opportunity to see the sparkling lights of New York City from the seat of your helicopter. Essex County airport in New Jersey is accessible by a 45-minute taxi ride from Midtown or via public transportation from the Port Authority Building in NYC on 42nd Street.

Sit back for the ride of your life on your 30–35-minute journey showcasing iconic landmarks like the American Dream Mall and Metlife Stadium before reaching the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and more at night all lit up with the sparkling lights of the city.

A once in a lifetime experience you are sure to never stop talking about!
Duration: 25 to 30 minutes.

Make your stay in New York City a memorable one by taking to the Manhattan skies for an exciting helicopter tour of New York City that departs from Downtown Manhattan. We offer state of the art Bell 407 aircraft!

Don't get fooled by low prices and outdated aircraft offered by our competitors that only fly out of New Jersey. Our New York City Helicopter tours offer spectacular aerial views of Manhattan. This memorable 12-15 minute flight will take you past the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, New York's financial district of Wall Street, and the humbling sight of Ground Zero. Catch a glimpse of the magnificent Empire State Building and historic Ellis Island for a truly birds-eye view of New York City!
Duration: 15 minutes.

See breathtaking views of New York City as you fly into the city from Essex County Airport in New Jersey. Essex County airport in New Jersey is accessible by a 45-minute taxi ride from Midtown or via public transportation from the Port Authority Building in NYC on 42nd Street.

Sit back for the ride of your life on your 30–35-minute journey showcasing iconic landmarks like the American Dream Mall and Metlife Stadium before reaching the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and more.

A once in a lifetime experience you are sure to never stop talking about!
Duration: 30 to 35 minutes.

The Statue of Liberty is a verifiable American icon and a must-do on anyone's New York bucket list. This flexible tour offers two convenient options for visiting Lady Liberty with expert insights so you can choose whichever best fits your travel plans and preferences. If you're short on time, the two-hour Statue of Liberty Express Tour option offers an introduction to the legendary lady from an expert guide in Battery Park followed by a ferry ride and guided tour of Liberty Island. Choose the four-hour option for a more in-depth visit with your guide including the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island.
Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

This 60-minute cruise gets you within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty for unbeatable photos. Sail under the Brooklyn Bridge and admire the skyline. Onboard narration highlights sites like the Empire State Building, Freedom Tower, and more. Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating with large windows.

Pass Ellis Island and get close to "Lady Liberty" for photo ops. Marvel at Manhattan's skyline, including One World Trade Center, from the East and Hudson Rivers. Drinks and food are available from the full bar and concession stand.

Alternatively, take the 90-minute Night Cruise to see the New York Skyline sparkle in the evening.
Duration: 1 hour.

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York. With over 80 million passengers and counting, forget the rest and choose the best for your visit. Circle Line offers the largest fleet of sightseeing vessels with the largest boats. Comfortable seating with lots of legroom and outdoor and indoor space for the best views of the New York skyline.

Experience the grandeur of New York's skyline on this 1.5-hour highlights cruise. Sit back and relax while you cruise past New York's major sights, and enjoy a close encounter of the best kind with the Statue of Liberty.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Depart right under the Brooklyn Bridge then travel toward the Statue of Liberty. Enjoy views of famous landmarks on the Manhattan skyline during a 45-50 Minute express roundtrip sightseeing cruise by yacht.
Get up close to within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island for the most incredible photos opportunities. Admire views of One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, Battery Park.

Make the most of the full cash bar with snacks and drinks available to purchase onboard.
Duration: 45 minutes.

Explore New York’s most iconic landmarks on a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Wall Street, and the 9/11 Memorial. Choose from English, Spanish, or French guides, skip lines with priority ferry boarding, and upgrade for reserved 9/11 Museum entry.

Start your journey at Battery Park, where your guide sets the stage before you sail to Liberty Island. Learn the history and symbolism of Lady Liberty, enjoy panoramic views, and visit the "Statue of Liberty Museum" during free time.

Next, head to Ellis Island to delve into the immigrant experience at the Immigration Museum, hearing stories of resilience and hope. Return to Battery Park by ferry and continue to Wall Street to see landmarks like the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall.

Conclude at Ground Zero, paying tribute at the 9/11 Memorial Pools and hearing the story of 9/11.

Upgrade for reserved access to the 9/11 Museum to explore its powerful exhibits and artifacts in depth.
Duration: 5 hours.

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York. With over 80 million passengers and counting, forget the rest and choose the best for your visit. Circle Line offers the largest fleet of sightseeing vessels with the largest boats. Comfortable seating with lots of legroom and outdoor and indoor space for the best views of the New York skyline.

Sit back and unwind on a relaxing two and a half hour cruise around Manhattan Island. You'll see all the sights on the only New York cruise to circumnavigate Manhattan in its entirety.

Choose between two ticket types:

Cruise with Standard Seating which includes general admission boarding and seating available on the outdoor deck or inside the temperature-controlled cabin.

Cruise with Premium Seating which includes advanced boarding and exclusive indoor seating area in the temperature-controlled cabin with premium-cushioned seating.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

See New York City like never before on this 25-30 minute helicopter tour. Capture views of iconic Manhattan attractions including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, the Chrysler Building, the World Financial Center, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge, and continue up the Hudson River to the northern point of Manhattan to see even more sights. You'll also enjoy views of Brooklyn and Staten Island. Also fly south to the Verrazano Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in America.


Duration: 25 to 30 minutes.

Gain exclusive access to the Statue of Liberty on this once-in-a lifetime, 4-hour, private tour. With a personal tour guide, learn how a gift of friendship to the United States has become one of the modern wonders of the world. After an inspiring, exclusive trip to Lady Liberty, take a short boat ride to Ellis Island and hear first-hand stories about the most famous and active immigration hubs in the United States. Entry fees and round-trip ferry ticket included.
Duration: 4 hours.

A holiday sing-a-long cruise with homemade cookies and spiked hot cocoa. During this 90-minute tour you will cruise by many of New York’s well-known areas, including Battery Park, Manhattan's Financial District, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The live jazz band and host onboard will be sure to get you into the holiday spirit with festive favorites!

This cruise takes place aboard Yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II! Each boat has a full bar along with a heated grand salon. There's also an outer deck for sightseeing! Comfortable, assigned seating is available for everyone in the grand salon. Tables may be shared with a clear partition divider depending on party size.

Each person planning to attend, regardless of age, needs a ticket for this experience. If there are no child/infant tickets available, please purchase an adult ticket for all travelers.

Plan to arrive 15-30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to check-in at the ticket booth.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Cruise up close to one of the world's most famous monuments and  entrance to New York's harbor. Cruise around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with the New York City Skyline on a 60-minute sightseeing cruise that also journeys under the Brooklyn Bridge.
Duration: 1 hour.

Get up close and personal with Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty - two NYC landmarks. Enjoy an entertaining, professional guide to help you navigate the crowds and show you where to capture all the great views and photos on this tour.

Book in advance to skip the tickets lines on the ferry from Manhattan to Liberty Island. Then learn about both iconic sites as you enjoy a fully guided tour of the grounds at both Liberty and Ellis Island with admission to Statue of Liberty Museum and The Immigration Museum at Ellis Island both included.
Duration: 30 to 240 minutes.

The Ultimate NYC Tour does everything from the Taste of NYC and NYC Skyline tours, and then adds in other Big Apple favorites known throughout the world including:

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The South Street Seaport

The Brooklyn, George Washington, and Manhattan Bridges

Wall Street

The Empire State Building

Central Park

The Intrepid Air, Sea and Space Museum

Yankee Stadium and Battery Park
Duration: 20 to 25 minutes.

Experience stunning New York skyline views on this evening happy hour cruise around lower Manhattan. The 2-level boat features indoor and outdoor decks, onboard food options, and a covered outdoor dance floor.

Cruise the East River under the Brooklyn Bridge to see Lower Manhattan, South Street Seaport, Battery Park, and One World Trade Center. Then, head up the Hudson River for views of the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building.

Sail past Ellis Island and pause for photos of the Statue of Liberty in the evening light.

Light commentary highlights famous buildings and neighborhoods along the Hudson and East Rivers.

Enjoy happy hour specials with drinks from the cash bar and snacks like burgers, chicken fingers, nachos, hot dogs, and pretzels. Dance and mingle on the covered outdoor deck with fun music.

With a friendly crew and incredible views, this happy hour skyline cruise is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy New York City at sunset or night.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Climb aboard your boat on the east side of New York City, and take a 60-minute boat ride to see the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island. See the most famous skyline in the world. Your live English guide will point out the sites as you sail along the river. Take photos of the famous entry point to NYC.
Duration: 1 hour.

Ellis Island was the Gateway to America, and on this tour you will learn more about the journey and the struggle for a new future and a better tomorrow. The site of the Statue of Liberty brought hope of freedom and peace.
Duration: 5 hours.

Experience New York from the water on this spectacular holiday cruise aboard a 1920s-style classic boat. See all the major sites of Manhattan along the water and enjoy a beverage in the glassed-in, heated observatory. Tables will be assigned at check-in.

Bring your family or closest friends and relax while cruising New York Harbor. Decorated in fabulous holiday decor, this experience is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. A great tour for families, locals and visitors alike.

Light narration is provided by the captain along with some holiday tunes on our sound system. Hot beverages, beer, wine, Champagne and soda are available for purchase. One drink is complimentary.


Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

New York City Sightseeing Scenic cruise. Enjoy the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island up close. View of the Manhattan skyline, One World Trade Center and the Empire State Building.Enjoy a panoramic view of lower Manhattan as you pass the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge. Have you photo taken with the Statue of Liberty. Morning or afternoon departures are available daily.


Duration: 1 hour.

See the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and building up close on this popular helicopter tour of New York City, while taking off and landing out of Manhattan Heliport. This is a one-of-kind pilot narrated modern and historical tour.

As you soar above the city that never sleeps, take a look at all NYC has to offer. You’ll see attractions such as: Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Times Square, The Intrepid Museum, Central Park, Yankee Stadium and more!
Duration: 25 to 30 minutes.

No trip to New York would be complete without visiting and learning about one of the most well-known monuments in the world: the Statue of Liberty and the Immigration Museum at Ellis Island.

Experience the Statue of Liberty and the Immigration Museum at Ellis Island as you learn their history and their importance to this country and enjoy breath-taking views of the New York City skyline

The tour includes priority and reserved access to the islands, a professional tour leader you through both islands (if option selected) and access to the Statue of Liberty Museum and the National Museum of Immigration on the island Ellis.


Duration: 4 hours.

When looking for a fun and festive way to get out on the water, a Signature cruise is your answer. Come aboard and experience breathtaking NYC skyline views, a chef-prepared buffet-style lunch, attentive service, DJ entertainment, rooftop lounge and onboard games!

Departing from Chelsea Piers in New York, a lunch cruise with City Cruises is the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon on the water taking in the iconic sites along the Skyline. Enjoy views of Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and more!
Duration: 2 hours.

Experience the best of Liberty and Ellis Island in half a day. Start at Battery Park, taking in stunning views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty while your expert guide shares the significance of these iconic landmarks. Board the ferry to Liberty Island and enjoy breathtaking sights as your guide explains the history and symbolism of the Statue of Liberty. Explore the statue up close, capture memorable photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Then, sail to Ellis Island, where your guide will bring the immigrant experience to life at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Discover the powerful stories of those who shaped America.

Conclude with a scenic ferry ride back to Battery Park, leaving with a deep appreciation for these historic sites—all in just half a day.
Duration: 4 hours.

Visit Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty on this Private fully escorted walking tour. Enjoy a personalized overview of the Battery Park, Liberty Island, Ellis Island and Ground Zero. The best way to enjoy the Statue of Liberty in safe socially distance. The Statue of Liberty is open.
Duration: 5 hours.

See many major New York sights on a 90-minute boat cruise on a 1920s-style yacht! Enjoy views from the open bow, or relax in the spacious climate controlled glassed-enclosed observation cabin. The boat cruises along the Hudson River offering views of Manhattan's west side and booming skyline. Pass by the Financial District, Ellis Island, and Statue of Liberty as the boat cruises into New York Harbor.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

New York City Sightseeing Scenic cruise. Enjoy the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island up close. View of the Manhattan skyline, One World Trade Center and the Empire State Building.Enjoy a panoramic view of lower Manhattan as you pass the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge. Have you photo taken with the Statue of Liberty. Morning or afternoon departures are available daily.
Duration: 1 hour.

Visit Ellis Island and Lady liberty with a fully escorted walking tour, who will provide a personalized overview of the island. When you have returned to Battery Park by ferry, you’ll visit the 9/11 Memorial, located next to the newly constructed Freedom Tower.
Duration: 5 hours.

Dine along the skyline with City Cruises
Enjoy chef prepared menus, seasonal cocktails, live music, iconic sights, and the bright city lights as you dine along the New York skyline!

Depart from Lincoln Harbor Marina in Weehawken NJ and sail for two-and-a-half hours along the Hudson and East rivers past many notable attractions such as Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Vessel at Hudson Yards, Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, South Street Seaport, Brooklyn Bridge and more.

Take in the views as you enjoy the chef prepared dinner buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads and desserts along with live musical entertainment provided by the onboard DJ. Creative cocktails, wine and beer available from the well-stocked bar.

Board the Spirit of New Jersey for a festive and casual dinner cruise with incredible skyline views from interior and exterior open-air observation decks.

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Sail around the Statue of Liberty on a sightseeing cruise that also cruises under the Brooklyn Bridge and past Ellis Island. Take in incredible views of the iconic New York skyline.

Upgrade your ticket to include entry to either (or both) of the two main attractions in Lower Manhattan:

- One World Observatory, located at the top of the tallest building in the Western hemisphere, with sweeping views of Manhattan and the New York Harbor. Ticket valid anytime for 7 days following your cruise.

- 9/11 Museum, the poignant Museum about the attacks of September 11th, 2001, located where the twin towers once stood. Ticket valid anytime between 12pm and 3pm on the 7 days following your cruise. Choose your entry time for the Museum and take the cruise at 11am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm, or 4.30pm that same day or the next day.

Alternatively, take the 90-minute Night Cruise and see the New York Skyline sparkle in the evening light
Duration: 1 hour.

Embark on a 75-minute cruise from Pier 40 and experience the Statue of Liberty up close, along with stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan skyline, and Ellis Island. With a live guide, learn fascinating stories about New York's iconic landmarks.

Why You'll Love It:

Up-close views of the Statue of Liberty and NYC landmarks
Expert live guide sharing interesting historical insights
Convenient departure from Pier 40 in Manhattan
Book your Statue of Liberty Cruise today for a memorable NYC adventure!


Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.

The only Statue of Liberty Cruise with a flexible departure on YOUR time. Choose from 4 daily departures – 11am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm or 4:30pm. Just walk up to Pier 36 and present your voucher. Settle on your cruise indoors or out, pass under the Brooklyn Bridge for views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan’s skyline, including One World Trade Center. Let New York Harbor’s sites come to you on a Lady Liberty Cruise. Prebook to guarantee your ticket and save valuable vacation time. Sail by the Statue of Liberty, under Brooklyn Bridge, and past NYC’s skyline.

Upgrade to include roundtrip transportation from the Brooklyn Deli located in times square.
Duration: 1 hour.

On this thrilling daytime helicopter tour you will view New York City's stunning skyline. In a small-group, enjoy a unique perspective of the Big Apple from the sky. Bring your camera - you'll capture extraordinary photos of the city that will be the envy of all your friends. This adventure is a shared experience with other travelers.
Duration: 25 to 30 minutes.

Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise along the Hudson River and New York Harbor on a classic 1920s-style yacht. Pass by Manhattan's financial district, One World Trade, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Take in the beautiful skyline as the sun dips below the horizon. This is a great way to see Manhattan for visitors and locals alike and a great photo opportunity as well.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.