Ripley's NYC Discount Tickets & Tips for Visiting

By Lindsay Eagan

In New York and planning to visit Times Square? Then you need to add Ripley's Believe It or Not! to your itinerary. With twenty-two Ripley’s “Odditoriums” in North America alone, the Times Square location is the largest of them all, at 18,000 square feet. The remarkable pieces in Ripley’s NYC bring to light the inherent schizophrenic joy one experiences when visiting. There is no running theme except for one thing: fun. Check out our helpful guide for visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not! Times Square, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more.

Looking for Ripley's Believe It or Not! ® Discount Tickets?

We’ve got you covered – Ripley's Believe It or Not! ® admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more.

Nearby Attractions

There are plenty of other fun things to do located nearby.. I mean, you're in New York City. Here are a few we suggest adding to your itinerary...

  • Madame Tussauds, the famous wax museum, is right next door. Save 10% off admission when you present your New York Explorer Pass.
  • Hop aboard THE RIDE, which is a unique, interactive experience that turns the streets of New York into an entertaining stage for talented street performers.
  • Caroline’s is a comedy store a few blocks up that regularly has shows from some of the greatest (and most famous) comics in the country. Ignore the hecklers trying to sell you a comedy show, and go right to Caroline’s if you want to laugh.
  • To eat, you can’t miss the iconic Carmine’s, a family-style Italian restaurant with great food, huge portions, and a perfect touch of New York sass

What to Do There

Come for the fun of clambering through the Black Hole, or seeing Dean Cain explain how a headless chicken lived for two weeks. Come for the giant Mastodon skeleton, or to see a real piece of the Berlin Wall. Even just come for the staff, some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet working at a museum.

Let me help set the scene...

You’re walking through Times Square, the intense lights and dense crowds overwhelming your senses. Thirty-foot posters of actors, models, and comedians loom above you, innumerable giant screens flash blinding messages at each other, and a news ticker snakes around a building, endlessly scrolling with current events in gleaming letters. In the midst of all this, you happen upon what looks like a theater, encased in glittering lights. Even in the astounding overload of sights and sounds, the pounding beat of “Holding out For a Hero” is apparent, and draws you in. A kind woman clad in blue opens the door for you, and you enter. You find yourself in a luxurious hall, The entrance floor covered in clay-hued tile. Beyond you can see a balcony with a railing of ornate wrought iron. To your right, there is a massive head of an elephant, born with two trunks (the tusks not real ivory, the elephant died naturally, the docent assures you). Next to it is a gorgeous reproduction of a swirling water vortex, encased in plexiglass. To your left are two hulking statues of Bumblebee, from Transformers, and Captain America. Both are made entirely out of car parts. The effect is astounding, and yet you’ve only just begun your experience at Ripley’s, Believe it or Not! You can put your body through a portal and make yourself look like Johnny Eck, a freak show performer who was born without the lower half of his torso, and who also was a star of the iconic 1932 film Freaks. In the entryway , you’re treated to a sampling of the oddities that Ripley’s is known for: figures of famed individuals with fascinating gifts. There’s the bearded woman, the lizard man (complete with forked tongue), and the fierce Maria Christina, who wears a corset that could be seen in any goth club. There are some unexpected exhibits too, like the jaws of a megalodon, or giant shark. These jaws stand at least twelve feet high. Nearby, a taxidermied albino giraffe stands, quite lovely and serene despite being so near massive shark teeth. On the second floor, you’ll enjoy a tiny holographic man singing a song that could come straight from a Tim Burton film, then a secret panel opens to the next room. There are also two different floor exhibits that you are encouraged to walk on, one a replica of the New York City skyline. You can also take a photo hugging the Empire State Building like King Kong, hold a real piece of Mars, or maneuver through a room of lasers like a superspy. A warning to those with bug phobias: on the second floor there is an exhibit displaying giant hissing cockroaches, and you’re encouraged to put your head into a dome in the center. So if you’re afraid of bugs, keep an eye out. It’s right across from Ripley’s impressive beer stein collection. However, the coup de grace of the interactive experiences at Ripley’s comes nearly at the end, with “The Black Hole.” It’s a cylindrical tunnel with a catwalk suspended through the center, all black but glinting with sparkling stars. The tunnel spins around you, and the effect is exhilarating and disorienting as you enter the maelstrom. Some people go through several times. However, there is also a “coward’s bypass” that leads you to the next room, if you’re concerned the effect will be too upsetting, or possibly nauseating. One of the more interesting features sprinkled throughout the museum are portraits or statues made out of unusual objects. Then also there is a portrait of Lady Gaga made out of crayons, a sculpture of King Kong made out of tires, a likeness of President Obama made out of gumballs, a mural made out of postage stamps, and even the face of Jimi Hendrix made, poetically, out of cassette tape. Perhaps the strangest of these items is a full representation of John Lennon made completely out of dog hair. At the base of one stairwell there is a genuine piece of the Berlin wall, one of only six in the United States. Image of Child, Female, Girl, Person, Livestock, Adult, Woman,

Need to Know

Hours

  • Daily, 9:00 am-1:00 am (last ticket is sold at midnight)
  • Open 365 days a year

Directions & Address

234 West 42nd Street, Times Square New York, NY 10036 By Subway: A, C, E, or S trains to Port Authority/42nd Street; 1, 2, 3, N, R, Q, or 7 trains to Times Square/42nd Street.

Save on Tickets with a New York Explorer Pass

Remember, the New York Explorer Pass® is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Ripley's Believe It or Not! NYC tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price.

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American Museum of Natural History Discount Tickets & Tips for Your Visit

Check out our helpful guide for visiting New York's American Museum of Natural History, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, nearby attractions, and much more. Fans of the Night at the Museum series will recognize the massive façade of New York’s American Museum of Natural History, complete with the iconic sculpture of Teddy Roosevelt – although this one doesn't talk! There is a reason that this museum has been the setting for so many films and books; in addition to its architecture and Central Park adjacent location, it is filled with some of the world’s oldest and most spectacular wonders. How to buy American Museum of Natural History discount tickets? We’ve got you covered – American Museum of Natural History admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note: Your Pass entitles you to free general admission. If you would like to upgrade your admission ticket to include a temporary exhibit, IMAX or 3D film, OR a Hayden Planetarium Space Show, you may do so directly at the Museum. Tips for Visiting the American Museum of Natural History Make a plan: The Museum of Natural History is quite sizable, and it can be easy to wind through an exhibition hall and lose your track. Insider tip? The main entrance from Central Park West is actually the museum's second floor, so keep this in mind when planning your route. Relax under the whale: The Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life is home to the museum's famous life-sized blue whale. While it is certainly a site to behold, the room also has a pleasant area to sit and take in some videos focused on ocean exploration, and allows plenty of room for kids to play around in! Look for interactive exhibits: While most museums keep their collections behind layers of security, there are some exhibits in the Museum of Natural History that encourage visitors to touch and engage with them. These can be particularly exciting for children! Keep in mind that not all items can be touched, so look for the signs! Take kids to the discovery room: For even more hands-on fun, children between 5 and 12 will love being able to explore science with specially designed interactive activities. Bring a flashlight: Okay, not really. But, it's important to note that some of the museum's exhibitions have purposely low light, so be prepared for different lighting levels. Download the free Explorer app: The free app includes museum maps and allows visitors to take self-guided tours, and provides plenty of additional information on exhibits. The museum does have free WiFi, so you can download the app on-site if you want. Consult the museum map before your visit: Be sure to look over the museum map before your visit to help you plan which exhibits you want to see, and which ones you might be able to save for next time if the kids get tired. When is the best time to visit the American Museum of Natural History? Try to visit the Museum of Natural History during the week to cut down on crowds, since weekends are always the busiest. Keep in mind that many schools do organize daily groups to the museum, so early afternoon is an ideal time since most school groups will have finished their visits for the day. In search of shorter lines? The Rose Center entrance usually attracts fewer crowds and could be a good option to save you some time. How much time do you need at the American Museum of Natural History? There is so much to see and do inside the museum, you could spend the whole day there! Plan to take at least 2 hours and 30 minutes to tour the museum to make the most of your visit. However, if you are planning on viewing a show or special exhibition, plan to be there for up to 3 hours and 30 minutes. What should I bring to the American Museum of Natural History? Camera: The museum encourages visitors to document their experience in photos, but keep in mind that selfie sticks aren’t allowed. You can use flash photography, although not in all areas. Bottle of Water: The museum doesn't allow outside food, but you can bring in a bottle of water. Well-placed water fountains make great places to top off your bottle. Nothing bigger than a purse: You will need to check any items larger than a purse at the Coat Check, and the museum won't allow you to check small luggage or oversized bags. Keep in mind that coat check does cost an additional $2, and the lines can get very long in the cold months. There is an extra coat check located in the Rose Center that is available during winter months (with much shorter lines!) What to do at the American Museum of Natural History? The Museum of Natural History often has special exhibitions that require additional entry fees, but the permanent exhibits are home to the museum’s most iconic features. Visitors will be able to experience how man and nature have interacted over the years, and how the planet has changed and evolved. Here is a quick look at some of the permanent exhibitions! Hall of Biodiversity and Environmental Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History These first-floor exhibits explore the world’s natural life. The Hall of Biodiversity contains many interactive experiences that can help visually illustrate the ways on which all life is interconnected. The Hall of North American Forests features some impressive examples of centuries-old redwoods, and of course, no trip to the museum would be complete without a stop at the Irma and Paul Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life. Here visitors can see the massive blue whale, one of the museum’s most famous inhabitants. Birds and Reptiles and Amphibians Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History Full of wildlife, the dioramas and exhibits on the second and third floors show examples of some of the world’s most exotic small creatures. These animals hails from all over the globe, and from right around NYC, to give you a sense of the scope. Visitors can check out replicas of these animals in their natural habitat and learn more about how they evolved over time. Mammal Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History The Museum of Natural History’s dioramas are perhaps the most famous of their kind in the world. These incredibly detailed representations of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures in their natural habitats are so realistic that you will almost think you see them moving! Creatures from all over the world are presented in full-scale meticulous detail - did that tiger just blink? Earth and Planetary Sciences Halls These areas of the museum are fascinating for people of all ages, as they contain examples of rare gemstones and objects related to minerals and geology. The Arthur Ross Hall of Meteorites contains the massive Ahnighito, a 34-ton piece of meteorite which is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old. In the Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth visitors will be able to see examples of how minerals and rock formations occur to make our natural landscape. Fossil Halls The top floor fossil halls are definitely one of the museum’s highlights. Want to meet a T-Rex? The Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs contains one of these terrifying creatures, in addition to examples of velociraptors and Allosaurus.* There's even an excitingly massive Titanosaur! Enormous extinct mammoths are found in the Paul and Irma Milstein Hall of Advanced Mammals, and massive sharks and sea creatures, straight out of a horror movie, are in the Hall of Vertebrate Origins. *Please note that as of Winter 2018, the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs is currently undergoing restoration work and will reopen upon completion. Please consult the attraction website directly to confirm the status of this section during your visit. Human Origins and Cultural Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History While the museum has an abundance of information about the natural environment, it is also filled with artifacts from the history of human life. With examples from Tibetan Buddhism in the Gardner D. Stout Hall of Asian Peoples and massive totems from Native Americans in the Hall of Northwest Coast Indians, much of the museum is truly a journey through human history. Be sure you make it to the Margaret Mead Hall of Pacific Peoples to meet the Easter Island head, who you may know as "Dum-Dum." Don't be shy, and get up close and personal with the model for some unforgettable photos! Rose Center for Earth and Space The museum is also dedicated to exploring the cosmos and the Rose Center is home to exhibits exploring the history of the universe. The world-famous Hayden Planetarium is located here, but you can still learn plenty if you decide not to buy the additional ticket for a show. Which attractions are near the American Museum of Natural History? There are plenty of other great attractions located nearby. Here are a few we suggest adding to your itinerary... The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a beautiful walk (or cab ride) through Central Park and explores the cultural history of the world in great depth. The Guggenheim Museum, which focuses on more contemporary art forms, is also a pleasant ride through Central Park. The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building is one of New York's most iconic structures. The New York Historic Society is a few blocks away and focuses on significant events in the history of New York, many of which are tied into important events in American history. Where to eat near the American Museum of Natural History? What restaurants are near the American Museum of Natural History? Museum Food Court - Inside the museum visitors can stop at the lower level food court for a vast selection of dishes appropriate for palates of all ages. Café on One & Four - There is also a small café with light bites on the first floor and another on the fourth floor. Starlight Café - Located on the first floor, adjecent to the Hayden Planetarium. That being said, there are plenty of options for dining around the Upper West Side location. Shake Shack (366 Columbus Avenue) - No longer do you need to stand in long lines to enjoy the burgers and fries at Shake Shack, one of New Yorkers’ favorite places to grab a quick bite. Jacques Torres (285 Amsterdam Avenue) - Visiting in the middle of winter? You can't miss a Jacques Torres hot chocolate. While the menu focuses around chocolate, this makes a great place to reward the family after a long museum visit! How to get to the American Museum of Natural History? Hours Daily, 10:00 am-5:45 pm Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. All holiday hours are subject to change without notice. Directions & Address Central Park West at 79th St. New York, NY 10024 The main entrance to the Rose Center for Earth and Space is located at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. Public Transportation: By Subway: B (weekdays only) or C trains to 81st Street station; 1 train to 79th Street station at Broadway. Walk two blocks east to the Museum. By Bus: M79 to 81st Street Is there parking at the American Museum of Natural History? There is a parking garage at the American Museum of Natural History. You can find it at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. It is open from 8 am–11 pm and costs up to$26 for 1 hour, $29 for 2 hours, $36 for 3-5 hours, $46 for 5-10 hours and $51 for max to close. Save on Tickets with a New York City Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass® is the best choice for savings and flexibility, which includes American Museum of Natural History tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan
Blog

New York in March

We love New York all year round, but the city especially shines at the beginning of springtime. Though the weather is still a little chilly this time of year, the area offers a wide array of fun activities and exciting events for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day to its fullest, catch a first-rate classical music performance, or taste some of the best pizza in the city, you’ll find that there are countless reasons to love the Big Apple. So, if you’re looking for a great spring vacation, make sure to read through our guide for things to do in the city during this time of year. With Go City, see more for less. Get Festive   Those who are visiting during St. Patrick’s Day might want to check out the city’s annual parade. Recognized as both the oldest and largest celebration of its kind, the New York Saint Patrick’s Day Parade offers a wonderful traditional experience for you and your loved ones. Attracting about 2 million spectators each year, the extravagant event features enormous floats, fun marching bands and captivating dancers. In addition, visitors should be able to find special events and lively activities at bars and restaurants across all five boroughs.   New York City has always been known for its vibrant arts scene. To get your fill of some of the area’s top performers and emerging talents, head over to Brooklyn Dance Festival. At the event, attendees can enjoy original choreography and beautiful storytelling across a wide variety of styles. As captivating as it is magical, the event is the perfect way to soak up the culture of the city.   Whiskey connoisseurs - pay attention! Kicking off towards the end of the month, the NYC Craft Distillers Festival offers attendees a chance to sample some of the industry’s premium spirits at a lower price point. Recapturing the magic of the Roaring Twenties, the event also presents aerial silk performers and burlesque artists just to help you get into the swing of things. Both elegant and lively, the festival provides something a little different from the usual bar experience. Find Fun Activities If you’re looking to avoid the chilly weather, why not book tickets for the Museum of Ice Cream? Yep, you read that right. This delightful and playful institute is entirely dedicated to one of our favorite childhood treats. Providing a fun and unique experience, the museum offers over 13 multi-sensory installations for you to sink your teeth into. Snap some pictures, play in a ball pit of giant sprinkles, or taste some of the establishment's signature flavors - what’s not to love?   New York City is well-recognized as a cultural and creative hub. Standing as one of the biggest international art fairs that the city has to offer, the Armory Show NYC offers the perfect quiet and relaxing alternative to a busy day of touring. The event showcases pieces from over 200 galleries and 30 countries with a focus on contemporary and modern art. A thoroughly interesting and engaging experience, you won’t want to miss out on this one! For a long time, visitors have flocked to New York to admire its architectural integrity – but did you know that the city also offers a museum for those who are especially curious about the constructural background of this vast vertical metropolis? Located in Battery Park City, the Skyscraper Museum focuses on the area’s structures as incredible products of design, objects of technology, and places of work and residence. Upon entrance, visitors can learn more about designers, builders, and investors who contributed to the city’s rich architectural heritage. With so much to see and learn, we highly recommend saving this one for a dull March afternoon.   Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of March is attend the New York Peace Film Festival. Kicking off towards the end of the month, the event seeks to bring social and political awareness through the art of filmmaking. Screening a wide variety of fantastic feature-length films, short narratives, and documentary pieces, there’s a little something for everyone here. A perfect activity to fill those rainy March afternoons, this unique cultural event should be at the top of everyone’s itineraries! Experience the Culture of the City New York is a world capital of live music. Standing as a fantastic example of the city’s contributions in creativity and innovation, the NY Philharmonic is recognized as one of the most revered symphony orchestras in the country. Presenting world-renowned performers in a grand space, the event provides a profound musical experience for you and your loved ones. Offering an incredible atmosphere and unforgettable experience, you don’t have to be a classical music aficionado to enjoy this one.   One of the best ways to experience New York is through its food. Super scrumptious and deeply fascinating, the Little Italy Food Tour provides a terrific way to sample some of the area’s greatest culinary offerings whilst learning more about the vibrant culture of the city. As you walk, you’ll be able to hear more about the history of the mafia and visit movie site locations from The Godfather. Discover the best pizza in the city and unlock the secret history of this charming neighborhood. Since New York is celebrated for its culture in diversity, it's no surprise that the city offers a wide array of interesting events throughout the spring. Ushering in the spring with much enthusiasm and vibrancy, Holi in the City is an annual festival of colors which celebrates the Hindu holiday of Holi. Though throwing colored powder is the main activity of the festival, attendees can enjoy musical performances, dancing, and delicious food. Be sure to wear white and have your phone at the ready for those great photo opportunities! We love New York in March. The air is crisp, the lines are shorter, and the beginning of the springtime brings a whole host of seasonal activities. Whether you want to party at Holi festival, watch sensational dance performances close up, or hop into a pool of sprinkles at the Museum of Ice Cream, you won’t want to miss what’s going on in the city in March. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty – Discount Tickets & More

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are among the most iconic landmarks in all of New York. Both represent an important period in the history of immigration in this country. They reflect the long-held ideal of America as a safe haven for all who seek liberty and freedom. The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Ellis Island was once the home of the primary immigration center in the United States. Today, it is a fascinating museum. Head to both of these top attractions on a fun ferry ride and spend an educational afternoon with the whole family. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the both the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for Discount Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry Tickets? We’ve got you covered - ferry tickets for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island are available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: The below options include a ferry ticket, audio tours, and access to the grounds of both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. 1. Explorer Pass - Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass - Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note: tickets to access the Pedestal and Crown of the Statue of Liberty are not included with the Explorer Pass. If you wish add access to those parts of the statue, you will need book Crown Reserve tickets and/or Pedestal Reserve tickets separately. Make reservations as soon as possible as space is limited and tours often sell out months in advance. Top Statue of Liberty Facts The statue was originally named Liberty Enlightening the World. The Statue of Liberty's famous blue-green color is the result of oxidized copper. The tablet in the Statue of Liberty's left hand says JULY IV MDCCLXXVI (July 4, 1776), which is the day the US declared independence. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886. The Statue of Liberty was was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and was built by Gustave Eiffel. Tips for Your Upcoming Visit You may use either two of the ferry departure points for your trip. Battery Park in New York - departs every 25 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) Liberty State Park in New Jersey - depearts every 40 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) If time is a concern, then we strongly encourage using the Liberty State Park, New Jersey location for faster processing, boarding, convenient access and ample parking. Save on Statue of Liberty Ferry Tickets with the New York City Explorer Pass®. If visiting using an Explorer Pass, you must pick up your ferry boarding pass before entering the security line. All visitors are required to pass through a mandatory airport grade security screening, so be prepared for a long wait. We suggest arriving early in the morning. Allow at least 2 hours to visit one island and 4 hours to visit both islands. Bring your camera. You'll want to take pictures of the Statue of Liberty from the shore, from the ferry, and from up close on Liberty Island. A limited number of wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis for no fee from the National Park Service. Visiting the Pedestal or Crown of the Statue of Liberty requires a reservation. Book well ahead to ensure availability the day you want to visit. When is the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty? Because the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are two of the most popular places to visit in the entire area, you’d be hard pressed to find a time without many people. We suggest arriving early in the morning when the ferries first begin to run. You may use either two of the ferry departure points for your trip. Battery Park in New York - departs every 25 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) Liberty State Park in New Jersey - depearts every 40 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) If time is a concern, then we strongly encourage using the Liberty State Park, New Jersey location for faster processing, boarding, convenient access and ample parking. Make sure you allow enough time to explore both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island thoroughly - at least 2 hours to visit one island and 4 hours to visit both islands. What should I bring to The Statue of Liberty? There are a number of limitations on what is permitted on either island, so it’s best not to bring much if you want to avoid paying for a locker. You won't be permitted to bring large bags, and backpacks and strollers are not allowed at the Pedestal and Crown areas of the Statue. You'll have to put everything except your camera and medication inside a locker beforehand. Some things you you plan to bring include: Camera - You'll take a lot of photos trying to capture the statue from every angle. Don't forget to take photos of the NYC skyline, too. Money for souvenirs Comfortable shoes - Most of the visit will be on your feet. The boat deck can be slippery, so wear shoes with good traction. If you're visiting the pedestal or crown, you'll need shoes that are safe for climbing stairs. On Ellis Island, the Hard Hat Tour prohibits sandals or open-toed shoes. Dress for the weather - Much of the visit is outdoors, so come prepared with the layers you need to stay warm. Sunscreen - You will likely be waiting in long lines outside. What are things to do at Liberty Island? The Statue of Liberty greeted the ancestors of more than half of all Americans, raising its welcoming torch in New York Harbor after being given as a gift to the United States in 1886. There are several different parts of Liberty Island and Ellis Island, so be sure to see them all! Self-Guided Audio Tours Self-guided audio tours are included with every ticket for both the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, with special tours for children and those with vision impairments. The Audio Tours are available in different languages including Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish. If you'd like to be able to ask questions while you explore, there are ranger-led tours at both islands as well. The Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty A Pedestal Tour includes access inside the Statue of Liberty Pedestal and the Statue of Liberty Museum. The lowest part of the Statue of Liberty, just above the lobby, the Pedestal forms the base of the Statue. Be sure to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum on the second floor to learn all about the history and heritage of the world’s most famous statue. The pedestal's observation deck offers panoramic views of the harbor. The pedestal is partially wheelchair accessible, with elevator access part of the way up. There are 215 steps to the top of the pedestal for those who choose to climb. The museum presents the history of how France and the United States cooperated to erect the statue and exhibits the original torch. Remember: Statue of Liberty Pedestal tickets are separately ticketed. The Crown of the Statue of Liberty The Crown of the Statue of Liberty is the highest visitors can ascend (since the torch was closed to visitors in 1916). Come up here for some unparalleled photo ops. Children must be at least four feet tall to make the climb, and any children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Be prepared for a long walk; it's the equivalent of a 22-story building, and there is no elevator option. The National Park Service recommends that those with medical conditions such as heart problems, respiratory problems, acrophobia, claustrophobia, or vertigo do not attempt the climb. Crown Tour ticket holders also have access to the Pedestal observation deck and the museum. The Torch Exhibit Featuring the original torch (which was actually replaced in the 1980s) and a number of drawings, and photographs depicting this iconic symbol of freedom, this exhibit is a good replacement for not being able to ascend to the torch itself. Things to Do at Ellis Island Ellis Island, which is also known as the ‘Island of Hope and Tears’, was the gateway for millions of immigrants searching for a new beginning and a new life for their families in America. It has been estimated that close to 40% of all current US citizens can trace at least one of their ancestors to Ellis Island. Ellis Island Immigration Museum Image credit: The Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Foundation. With nearly 400,000 artifacts and over 1 million archival records, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is an expansive collection of historical records pertaining to the millions of immigrants who passed through this island on their way to a better life. Search the American Family Immigration History Center’s databases in person at Ellis Island or online before you go. The museum's exhibit "Journeys: The Peopling of America" presents the immigration experience before Ellis Island opened and after it closed, but the museum emphasizes the arrivals process experienced by immigrants to the United States at Ellis Island. Begin in the Baggage Room, where immigrants checked their bags after disembarking their ships. Upstairs, the Registry Room and the Hearing Room are where immigrants were examined before being granted entry to the United States. The Dormitory Rooms, where travelers who were briefly detained stayed overnight, host special exhibits. Peopling of America Center Image credit: Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Foundation. This is a must-see on your trip to Ellis Island. This exhibit space tells the story of immigration to America before the opening of Ellis Island in 1892. It explores the way immigration works today following the closure of the Island in 1954. These galleries follow the lives of real immigrants as they make their way into the United States and try to build a new life for themselves. American Family Immigration History Center Image credit: Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Foundation. For those of you with a particular interest in your family’s history, this Center is going to be a real treat. Get a chance to explore the entire archival collection of immigration arrival records at Ellis Island and search for your ancestors. Search by passenger record, ship manifest, and ship information. Have any family on the Wall of Honor? Search for the location of their name with the Foundation’s Search the Wall. Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour The Hard Hat Tour takes visitors on a 90-minute tour of the South Side of Ellis Island. The tour visits the Ellis Island Hospital facilities, including the contagious disease wards and autopsy rooms. The tour also includes the art exhibit "Unframed – Ellis Island" by JR, featuring full-size photographs of immigrants. No children under 13 are allowed on this tour. Nearby Attractions Liberty Island and Ellis Island stand apart from New York City in its harbor. However, there are many attractions near both the New York and New Jersey ferry landings. For a couple ideas, check out our things to do in lower Manhattan post. Here are a few others we suggest adding to your itinerary... See the famous Charging Bull statue and walk over to Wall Street, where you'll find Federal Hall, a National Memorial marking the spot where George Washington became president. Honor more of our nation’s important history with a visit to the poignant 9/11 Tribute Center & Memorial Museum. If you’d like to see the statue but don’t feel like waiting in lines at the actual island, try these fun options out on the water... Landmark Cruise by Circle Line Sightseeing Clipper City Tall Shop Sail Shearwater Classic Schooner Sail The Museum of Jewish Heritage is also right on the waterfront. New York City Hall is an interesting place to snap photos. Pedal across the Brooklyn Bridge on a bike tour. If you're departing from the Jersey City location, take time to appreciate the views of New York City's West Side skyline. Liberty State Park's greenery provides a respite from the concrete city and its trails can even take you through a salt marsh. The Liberty Science Center helps visitors understand science and technology through hands-on exhibits. Where to eat near the Statue of Liberty? What restaurants are near the Statue of Liberty? You are allowed to bring your own food for lunch. However, it needs to be sealed prior to entering the screening facility. Coolers are not allowed. The boat ride to the islands is brief. But if you get hungry on the way, you can purchase food on board. Evelyn Hill Inc. is the food concessionaire located on Liberty Island and Ellis Island. It offers a variety of high quality food options. Back in Manhattan, you'll find hot dog vendors and the Battery Gardens restaurant tucked as far south on the island as you can get. Dine with a view of Lady Liberty at Battery Gardens. Gigino at Wagner Park also features great Statue views alongside Italian fare. Are you a Seinfeld fan? Then head to the Original Soup Man. Beaubourg offers high-end French cuisine and a delicious raw bar. In the mood for Japanese fare? Check out Shinjuku Sushi. History buffs will enjoy Trinity Place, located in a converted bank. Kids will love Peanut Butter & Co. Sandwich Shop. Families can find a wide variety of affordable chain options from Shake Shack to Subway. Save on Admission with a New York Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Statue of Liberty ferry tickets, plus admission to your choice of dozens more top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan

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