Overview
By the time the Statue of Liberty was completed in 1886, New York City was already the gateway to America for millions of “homeless, tempest-tost” immigrants. Between 1855 and 1890, Castle Clinton on Manhattan Island served as a landing facility for 8-million people. The federal government took control of immigration in 1890, within two years opening a processing station on Ellis Island in New York Harbor. Ferry service to Ellis Island and Liberty Island is available from Castle Clinton National Monument in New York City or Liberty State Park in Jersey City.
Highlights
Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island Immigration Museum, ferry ride
Must-Do Activity
Approximately 12-million people were screened on Ellis Island between 1892-1924, though nearly 10% were turned away. Reopened to tourists in 1990, it is a haunting place to visit. The National Park Service museum offers excellent exhibits and films highlighting the travails of immigrants over the centuries.
Best Trail
None, but a special ranger-guided tour of Ellis Island will take you to areas you cannot see on your own.
Instagram-worthy Photo
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the U.S. ally France, intended to mark the centennial of the Declaration of Independence in 1876. By the time the 151-foot tall,225-ton copper woman was ready, the U.S. was scrambling to come up with money to build its 154-foot tall pedestal. Pocket change was collected across the nation, a truly grassroots effort that allowed even schoolchildren to claim a part of the monument.
Peak Season
Summer, but these world-renowned monuments are busy year round.
Hours
https://www.nps.gov/stli/planyourvisit/hours.htm
Fees
$18.50 per adult for ferry to both sites, plus a parking fee at Liberty State Park. While free timed tickets are available to access the pedestal, you must reserve months in advance if you wish to climb to the Statue of Liberty’s crown.
Road Conditions
Paved, but you will likely have to deal with traffic. There is plenty of parking at Liberty State Park in New Jersey.
Camping
None
Scott with Manhattan behind him 
First view of Ellis Island 
Tiff on board the ferry 
Historic graffiti on the walls 
Scott in the Registry Room 
Under the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty 
A replica of Lady Liberty’s foot (actual size)
Explore More – Why is there a boundary on Ellis Island that divides it between the states of New Jersey and New York?
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