Ellis Island

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Ellis Island: Tours & Tickets

See all tours & things to do in Ellis Island

Ellis Island's Top 5 Tour Highlights

Ellis Island was the most active American immigration inspection station from 1892 to 1954 making it the first piece of land millions of immigrants set foot on in their new home. Today it remains a landmark where that hope for a better tomorrow remains.

  • Ellis Island Ferry

    1. Ellis Island Ferry

    Getting there is half the fun! A $18 ticket will take you on a humbling cruise through the Upper New York Bay to both Ellis Island and Liberty Island.

  • Ellis Island Museum

    2. Ellis Island Museum

    Bonus: head to the information desk for a complimentary tour at the top of the hour for a guided tour, no ticket required.

  • Statue of Liberty Tour

    3. Statue of Liberty Tour

    Take the ferry a little further north to visit Liberty Island and experience the nation’s symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty, up close and personal.

  • 4. Ellis Island Hospital Complex

    Dive deeper into the experience of arriving at Ellis Island with a 90-minute hard hat tour of the Hospital Complex. Purchase tickets in advance.

  • Fun History Facts

    5. Fun History Facts

    Did you know, for example, that a 1998 ruling by the Supreme Court determined that most of the island belongs to New Jersey, not New York?

Planning Your Visit

  • How to get there?

    You can get to Ellis Island by taking a ferry operated by Statue Cruises from either Communipaw Terminal in Liberty State Park or Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan in New York City. Reserving your tickets ahead of time is recommended.

  • How long does it take?

    Generally you won’t need more than a couple hours to take in these sights, but you can set your own pace visiting Ellis Island and Liberty Island - the ferries depart every 20 minutes.

  • How much does it cost?

    The $18 ferry ticket grants access to both of the islands.

Good to know

  • When should I visit?
    Hours vary based on time of year:
    March-May, Open daily, 8:30 AM-5:15 PM
    June-August, Open daily, 8:30 AM-7:00 PM
    September-October, Open daily, 8:30 AM-6:00 PM
    Holiday hours may vary
  • Is it expensive?
    Adult tickets start at just $18 and go upwards depending on tour packages and perks.
  • Will I need a guide?
    A guide is a great idea to help you understand the historical context of this iconic American monument.
  • How to get there
    Public transportation to the ferry departure points at Battery Park and Liberty State Park is recommended!
  • Additional information

    • Visitors and their belongings are subject to screening before boarding the ferry.

    • A limited number of wheelchairs are available to borrow for the visit on a first come, first service basis.

What people are saying about Ellis Island

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 7,650 reviews

With the New York Explorer pass, we selected the 7 most important sights. Then I started planning the days. I got to know the subway and bus transportation in New York and planned where and how to go. Now I’m nearing the end and enjoying it more and more. I’ve been to the U.S. several times, but I’ve avoided big cities by far so far. However, I was in almost every National Park. I think we will enjoy that too.

New York City Explorer Pass w. Over 85 Tours & Attractions Reviewed by Emil, 2/7/2021

Tight security before getting to the ferry is good and a necessity. Even if you’re scheduled at a certain time, its not being followed as long as you have guaranteed tickets. If works for my group since some came late and got lost. Only problem, they don’t provide parking garage. Extra expense to pay parking especially if the tour takes like 2 to 3 hours.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Ticket Options with Ferry Reviewed by Anonymous, 1/3/2021

Cesar is the best guide Ever! My experience wouldn't be the same without him. He is very knowledgeable and his energy was spectacular. The quality of his service was fabulous. Please recognized Cesar! HE IS AMAZING!

New York: Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty, and Battery Park Reviewed by Elizabeth, 2/21/2021

Love it, the only thing is that I miss the boat at 11 but catch it at 12, and it was because of missing info. Y’all have to notice people that they should go to the Clinton Castle.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Ticket Options with Ferry Reviewed by Sherley, 1/16/2021

Get there at least 15 minutes before for checking in and to go thru the check up point & be ready to wait at least 15 minutes before the ferry arrives.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Ticket Options with Ferry Reviewed by Ilvea, 2/21/2021

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