Iconic Adventures Await Near the Statue of Liberty

Explore a world of wonder just steps from the Statue of Liberty.

Published: April 13, 2025
Iconic Adventures Await Near the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty stands as a symbol of freedom and welcome, but the adventure doesn’t stop there. Nearby, a wealth of attractions wait to be explored, offering history, culture, and excitement. Ready to dive into the best spots around Lady Liberty? We’ve curated a list of must-see attractions, including some Go City favorites. From stunning views to fascinating museums, there’s something for every adventurer. 

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration 

Visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration to uncover the rich history of America's immigration past. The museum narrates the stories of millions who arrived seeking new beginnings. Interactive exhibits and personal accounts bring to life the experience of those who passed through its halls. Discover the American Immigrant Wall of Honor and explore the restored Great Hall. As you wander through the exhibits, you'll find a deep connection to the nation's root stories. A visit here complements the Statue of Liberty, deepening your understanding of the hopes and dreams that built the nation. 

Statue of Liberty Pedestal Access 

For an unforgettable experience, take the Statue of Liberty Pedestal Access tour. Ascend to the pedestal for breathtaking views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline. Inside the pedestal, explore exhibitions detailing the statue’s history, construction, and significance. Visitors express an appreciation for the statue’s architectural marvel and symbolic meaning. This unique perspective provides a deeper connection to Lady Liberty, making it a must-see attraction. 

Battery Park 

Before heading to Liberty Island, explore Battery Park, a picturesque green space at Manhattan's southern tip. Stroll along beautiful gardens, enjoy public art installations, and take in views of the harbor. Visit the SeaGlass Carousel for a whimsical ride or relax on a bench by the waterfront. Battery Park serves as a peaceful escape and a gateway to numerous downtown attractions. Its tranquil environment and historical monuments provide a perfect starting point for your Statue of Liberty excursion. 

One World Observatory 

One World Observatory 

Ascend to the One World Observatory atop the Freedom Tower for unmatched views of New York City. As you soar to the top, interactive displays showcase the development of NYC’s skyline. The observatory offers panoramic vistas, complemented by engaging exhibits celebrating the city’s resilience and innovation. From its heights, gaze across the entire metropolitan area and beyond. An awe-inspiring experience that captures New York’s essence, offering a fresh perspective of the bustling city below, it’s an essential stop on your NYC adventure. 

9/11 Memorial & Museum 

A short distance from the Statue of Liberty ferry, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum presents a poignant reflection on a pivotal moment in history. The outdoor memorial features twin reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original towers, surrounded by panels inscribed with victims' names. Inside, the museum tells the story through artifacts, testimonials, and multimedia displays. A moving experience that honors lives lost and celebrates human resilience. 

Wall Street and the Charging Bull 

Explore the financial heart of the world at Wall Street. Stroll past iconic locations like the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall, where George Washington took the oath as the first President. Don’t miss the famous Charging Bull sculpture—a symbol of financial optimism and strength. Whether you're exploring vibrant markets or capturing iconic photos, Wall Street encapsulates the energetic spirit of NYC. 

South Street Seaport 

Head to the South Street Seaport, an area rich in maritime history. This revitalized district features cobblestone streets, historic ships, and fascinating museums. Quaint shops, delightful cafes, and waterfront dining create a charming atmosphere. Enjoy seasonal events and exhibitions housed in restored buildings, or take a scenic boat tour for a unique view of the skyline. Offering a blend of history and modernity, South Street Seaport provides a cultural experience complementing your visit to the Statue of Liberty. 

Governors Island 

Governors Island 

Hop on a quick ferry ride to Governors Island, an oasis of leisure and exploration. With over 172 acres, the island offers lush landscapes, historic sites, and unique events. Rent a bike or pedal car to explore its scenic paths, visit the art installations, or relax in a hammock. The island hosts cultural festivals and interactive exhibits, catering to diverse interests. Governors Island offers a charming escape with its sweeping views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, making it a perfect retreat. 

Museum of Jewish Heritage 

Visit the Museum of Jewish Heritage, a living memorial to the Holocaust. With its impactful exhibits, the museum educates visitors about Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust. Multimedia displays, personal stories, and artifacts provide a profound understanding of history, resilience, and remembrance. Special exhibitions often explore contemporary themes and global issues. 

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum 

Discover the legendary Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. This maritime museum is housed on the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid and includes exhibits on space travel, military history, and aviation. Explore iconic aircraft, a space shuttle, and even a submarine. The interactive displays and simulators engage visitors of all ages, offering insights into the advances that have shaped the nation. It’s an exhilarating experience that celebrates American spirit and ingenuity. 

Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO 

Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. This architectural marvel offers stunning views of the city skyline and East River. On the Brooklyn side, explore the vibrant DUMBO neighborhood with its unique shops, art galleries, and dining options. Capture the perfect photo of Manhattan framed by the bridge's arches. Both the bridge and DUMBO are must-visit locations that showcase New York's blend of historic charm and modern creativity. 

Staten Island Ferry 

Staten Island Ferry 

Experience the Staten Island Ferry, offering free rides with panoramic views of New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. Running 24/7, it’s a convenient and scenic way to enjoy the city from the water. The ferry connects Manhattan and Staten Island, allowing exploration of both boroughs. While onboard, savor the refreshing breezes and picturesque scenery, providing an unbeatable perspective of iconic landmarks—a quintessential NYC experience. 

Trinity Church 

Visit Trinity Church, a historic landmark with a rich history dating back to colonial times. Located at the intersection of Wall Street and Broadway, the church boasts stunning Gothic Revival architecture, intricate stained glass, and beautifully maintained grounds. Explore the historic cemetery, the final resting place of notable figures like Alexander Hamilton. Trinity Church serves as a peaceful sanctuary amidst the city’s hustle, offering a blend of spiritual solace and historical intrigue. 

Brookfield Place 

Experience luxury at Brookfield Place, a premier shopping and dining destination in Lower Manhattan. This upscale complex features high-end retailers, gourmet eateries, and seasonal events. The Winter Garden atrium showcases an indoor garden and breathtaking waterfront views. Whether you're shopping for the latest fashion or enjoying culinary delights, Brookfield Place offers a sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere, making it a chic stop on your downtown exploration. 

Statue Cruises 

Set sail with Statue Cruises to visit Liberty and Ellis Islands. Offering ferry service with engaging audio tours, the cruise provides captivating insights into the history and significance of these iconic landmarks. The journey offers stunning views of the NYC skyline, creating memorable photographic opportunities. Enjoy informative commentary that enriches your appreciation of the monument. Statue Cruises is an essential experience, delivering a deeper connection to New York's enduring symbols. 

Brooklyn Heights Promenade 

Take a leisurely walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, where stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River beckon. This scenic walkway provides a peaceful retreat with benches and beautifully landscaped gardens. The promenade is a favorite spot for photographers and romantics alike, offering a breathtaking backdrop at any time of day. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or simply soaking in the iconic cityscape. 

Castle Clinton National Monument 

Castle Clinton National Monument 

 

Before heading to Liberty Island, explore Castle Clinton National Monument in Battery Park. Built as a fort in the early 19th century, it has served various roles, from an entertainment center to an immigration station. Today, it stands as a museum offering insights into New York’s historical defenses. Its strategic location and fascinating history make it a worthwhile stop before embarking on your Statue of Liberty journey. 

Seaglass Carousel 

Experience the whimsy of the Seaglass Carousel in Battery Park. This magical ride features fish-shaped figures that glow and swirl, simulating an underwater adventure. It’s a visual treat for both children and adults, providing a moment of joy and wonder. The carousel's unique design and enchanting ambiance create a mystical experience, making it a delightful stop for families exploring the park. 

National Museum of the American Indian 

Explore the history and culture of indigenous peoples at the National Museum of the American Indian. Located in the historic Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, the museum presents a vast collection of artifacts, art, and exhibits. Visitors can learn about native traditions, innovations, and achievements through engaging displays. With its architecturally stunning setting and rich cultural narrative, this museum provides an enriching exploration of Native American heritage. 

For more, check out our guide to NYC at night, and make a long weekend of your visit with our 4 day itinerary. 

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New York in April

April is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit New York. Whilst the city isn’t exactly known for its balmy winters, millions make the expedition each year to experience its wonderful springtime. From beautiful gardens and parks to fantastic Easter celebrations, this place has it all. If you’re looking for some inspiration when it comes to planning a trip to the Big Apple, check out our list of the best things to do in the warmer months. To make your money go further, have a look at our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Taste the City Music festivals provide an experience like no other. To grab a slice of the action, head down to the Brooklyn Folk Festival. True to its name, this event features the very best of American and world folk music across a wide variety of genres, including blues, bluegrass, Latin & Balkan music and much more. In addition, there are vocal and instrumental workshops, film screenings, and jam sessions to sink your teeth into. Ever dreamed of taking a sneak peek at the newest and most innovative automotive trends? Well, as it turns out, you can! The perfect activity for a somewhat disagreeable afternoon, the New York International Auto Show presents the very best that the automobile industry has to offer in a comprehensive and engaging way. A total car-lovers’ dream, this 10-day auto consumer extravaganza features everything from classics and luxury dream cars to new models and even futuristic concept vehicles, right in the heart of Manhattan. With almost 1,000 of the world’s most stunning vehicles on display, we promise you won’t leave bored! New York presents a wide variety of options when it comes to all things food. A total must for meat lovers, Brisket King is a culinary festival featuring 20 chefs and pitmasters serving up their best mouthwatering creations. Enjoy the juiciest brisket in Brooklyn prepared in every way thinkable as well as craft beer, hard cider and spirits. After the brisket king is crowned, guests are encouraged to stay for the after-party and – you guessed it – more food! Sounds pretty good to us. Soak up the Spring There’s no shortage of great outdoor attractions all over New York. Stretching through the Meatpacking District and along the West Side of Manhattan, the High Line is a linear park and popular city landmark, welcoming a whopping 8 million visitors each year. Perfect for a lazy springtime stroll, the structure was redesigned in 2006, and now serves as a living system for a wide variety of plants and animals. Go for a picnic, admire the majestic city skyline or sit back and enjoy the sunset – the choice is yours! Another one of our favorite places to see in the springtime is the Conservatory Garden in Central Park. Since first opening in 1937, the spot has become a favorite for visitors from all over the world and is now known as one of the most noteworthy public gardens in New York City. The garden is comprised of three areas, each with a specific design: the English-style South Garden, the French-style North Garden, and the Italianate Center Garden. April is the perfect time to amble through the winding pathways and admire the waterlily pools and stunning floral displays along the way. If you're travelling during Easter, you might want to check out the many egg hunts taking place around the city. At the beginning of the month, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan throws its own event with egg sculptures hidden throughout the institute. Another great option is the Rockefeller Center’s Inaugural Easter Egg Hunt with live musical performances, Easter bonnet making stations, prize giveaways, and more. Meanwhile, those who want to get in touch with their inner child should consider looking into Central Park’s Easter Egg Scavenger and History Hunt. Get Cultured For those rainy spring afternoons, it just makes sense to have a good backup plan. Eclectic and full of character, Chelsea Market is a great place to visit with friends and family. Located right in the center of the Meatpacking District, this fun attraction is known for its seriously tempting food hall, unique stores and live music performances. Grab a bite to eat, weave through the interesting stalls, and pick up some one-of-a-kind souvenirs for loved ones along the way. The market’s bohemian flair and laid-back atmosphere puts it in a class of its own. Those who are looking to celebrate Easter in style should definitely consider checking out the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival. Beginning as a spontaneous event in the 1870s, this fun annual procession began as a means for the city’s most fashionable dressers to exhibit their impressive festive finery. Though the event draws in smaller numbers nowadays, New Yorkers participate each year with great enthusiasm and increasingly outlandish costumes. Creative and eccentric, the event is a unique cultural expression of Easter which you won’t see elsewhere. Spring weather can be a little touch-and-go - still, New York presents a wide array of fantastic indoor activities right at your disposal all throughout the month. Those who are looking to soak up the culture of the city should consider checking out Tribeca Film Festival. Set up by Robert De Niro himself, this event was developed as a way to restore the Tribeca neighborhood of Lower Manhattan following the 9/11 attacks. The event attracts around 150,000 attendees each year and is widely considered to be one of the most prestigious film festivals in the area. Showcasing a diverse selection of feature films, short pictures, and documentary pieces, there’s a little something for everyone here. Those who are especially interested can also attend immersive programming and Q&As with relevant storytellers. New York in the spring is a beautiful time for many reasons. The weather is warm, the streets are bustling with life, and the city is in full bloom! But the best part? No matter where your interests may lie, you’ll always be able to find fun things to do. From cherry blossom peeping at the Conservatory Garden to seriously tempting food festivals in Brooklyn, there are so many great things to do in the city for every type of traveller! Make the most out of your visit with our All-Inclusive pass and Explorer pass. For more information, check us out on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
Statue of Liberty in close-up with the New York skyline beyond.
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Empire State Building Vs Statue of Liberty NYC Comparison

Ask your average Jane or Joe to name as many top New York attractions as they can in 10 seconds and it’s fairly likely the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building will be first out of their mouths. But how do they measure up? Which has been around the longest and which has stolen the most blockbuster movie scenes? We got up close and personal with these two titans of the Manhattan skyline to find out. History The Statue of Liberty arrived on US shores in 1885, a gift from the people of France. This beautifully rendered copper giant was designed by celebrated sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with a metal framework by his engineering pal Gustave Eiffel. Yes, that Gustave Eiffel. The statue was dedicated on Liberty Island in October 1886, where she has stood ever since, her gorgeous patina earning her the nickname ‘Green Goddess’. Still the definitive emblem of American freedom after more than 140 years, the statue attracts around 3.5 million visitors every year. The Empire State Building joined the party a little later, and will reach its centenary year in 2031. Perhaps the most iconic Art Deco building on the planet, it stands at 1,453ft and was the world’s tallest building for over four decades, until topped by the World Trade Center’s North Tower in 1970. No other building has held the record for that long, just one of many accolades held by this monolithic Manhattan masterpiece, which attracts around four million visitors a year, primarily for the birds’ eye views afforded by its observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors, some 1,250ft from terra firma. At the Movies The iconic status of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building mean both have featured in countless movies, TV shows and music videos over the years. How many can you think of? The image of King Kong at the top of the Empire State Building, clinging to his beloved Ann Darrow (Fay Wray) and swatting away airplanes like flies before succumbing to their gunfire, is one of the most recognizable in movie history. It’s the Empire State’s mic drop moment, but the Green Goddess is no cinematic slouch either, having appeared on the silver screen many hundreds of times, even as far back as the silent movie era, when she made what is thought to be her debut alongside Charlie Chaplin in 1917’s The Immigrant. As a proud symbol of American freedom, Lady Liberty has also done innumerable stints in disaster movies, representing hope – or the fall of humankind. We’re talking the haunting image of the statue half-buried in sand in the closing scenes of Planet of the Apes as well as appearances in – deep breath – Independence Day, Deep Impact, The Day After Tomorrow, Cloverfield and, um, Sharknado 2. What can you do at the Statue of Liberty? A trip out to the planet’s most famous torchbearer takes in both Liberty Island (where the statue is located) and its near-neighbor Ellis Island, home of the National Museum of Immigration. And it’s well worth visiting both while you’re here. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of New York and the USA itself, there’s no better place to start. Photographs, heirlooms and a database of searchable historical records track the history of immigration in the US, and you can even peep into the baggage rooms and dormitories once used by ‘the huddled masses’ who arrived in New York in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Of course, the statue herself is the main event, and there are various options depending on what you want to see. You can book to climb to the top of the pedestal on which Lady Liberty stands, or go the whole hog and climb the 162-step spiral staircase inside the statue for epic views from right up inside her famous crown. Tickets for these experiences are available via the Statue City Cruises website, while a pass from Go City includes your ferry ticket plus entry to the museums, as well as dozens more New York attractions including the Guggenheim, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and – yep – the Empire State Building. What can you do at the Empire State Building? Really the only downside of visiting the observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors of the Empire State Building is the fact that those crazy views don’t include... the Empire State Building itself. Instead, soak up some of the best selfie opportunities in town with backdrops that include Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge and many other icons of the New York skyline. The 86th floor is in pole position for photo opps thanks to its open air platform, while the top floor is higher up (obvs) but fully enclosed. You can pimp up your visit with a range of direct ticket options that includes skip-the-line tickets, premium champagne packages and guided tours of the building, including the incredible Art Deco lobby. Or go straight for the 86th floor with an attraction pass from Go City. How to get to the Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty’s location on Liberty Island means the only way of getting there is by ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or the Liberty State Park in New Jersey. All passengers are required to undergo a security screening before boarding, so we’d recommend arriving 30 minutes or so before your planned departure, to avoid missing the boat. The Staten Island Ferry is another option if you just fancy a close pass (with stacks of great photo opportunities of both the statue and Manhattan skyline) but without actually physically visiting the attraction. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty here. How to get to the Empire State Building Getting to the Empire State Building is an absolute cinch. It’s right in the center or the Big Apple and you really can’t miss it; it’s visible from just about everywhere. The nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station, or arrive in style at the awesome Grand Central, and make the 10-minute walk from there. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Empire State Building here. Save on New York Activities and Attractions And that concludes our deep dive into the world of the Empire State Building vs the Statue of Liberty. We hope, in the unlikely event that you choose to visit only one of these big attractions, that in some small way our guide can help you make your decision. If not, and if indecision continues to dog you, remember you can easily visit both and save money thanks to Go City’s All-Inclusive and Explorer passes for New York. So what are you waiting for?
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Discover Free Adventures Near MoMA in NYC
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