port
New York, New York, US
activityLevel
Strenuous Activity
excursionType
All
wheelchairAccessible
No
startingAtPrice
$280
minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
duration
Approximately 8¼ Hours
mealsIncluded
Meals not included
"Made in Paris, this towering monument to liberty was a gift from France on the centenary of American independence. Inaugurated in 1886, the sculpture stands at the entrance to New York Harbour and has welcomed millions of immigrants to the United States ever since."
After a brief drive to Battery Park, at the southern tip of Manhattan, board the ferry and take in the waterside views Brooklyn and its famous bridge, Staten Island, New Jersey and the Manhattan skyline in the distance.
Upon reaching Liberty Island, you will have time to walk around the base of the magnificent Statue of Liberty -- and delve into the history of this iconic gift from France to the USA. Your guide will provide detailed information about 'Lady Liberty', her completion in 1886, and her interesting history in her new home. There will also be a short time to visit the gift shop and enjoy some of the exterior exhibits.
Re-boarding the ferry, continue to Ellis Island, a National Historic Landmark that was the main immigration center for the United States from 1892 until World War II. More than 12 million immigrants passed through and, today, more than 40% of Americans can trace some part of their ancestry back to Ellis Island. You will have approximately 1½ hours to explore the Ellis Island Museum on your own and to catch the spirit of the important role this island played in American history.
Return by ferry and board the coach for a scenic drive through the Financial District. Pass the 9/11 Memorial, consisting of two massive pools set within the original footprints of the Twin Towers with 30-foot waterfalls cascading down their sides.
Stop at Grand Central Station for a walk through this bustling building and learn about the architecture and history before enjoying approximately an hour of free time to go shopping, grab a bite to eat or do some people watching. If you are staying in the city, you may collect your luggage and make your way to your final destination from here. Otherwise, board the coach for your transfer to EWR airport to catch your flight home.
Please note: Available to guests with domestic flights after 7:45pm and international flights after 8:45pm. Wear comfortable walking shoes. A considerable amount of walking is required at each location, including one hour of slow walking at Liberty Island, and 100 yards between the boat launch and the base of the Statue of Liberty. All outdoor walkways are paved and level. Ellis Island requires two hours of slow walking and standing. There is 100-yard walk between the boat launch and the Ellis Island Museum. All venues are wheelchair accessible. Suitable for guests using a wheelchair with a companion to assist. Participants are required to pass through an airline-style security check before boarding the ferry. Expect crowding at some locations. Basic snack food (fast food style with a few healthier choices) and beverages are available for purchase at both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. An inside visit to the Statue of Liberty is NOT included in this tour and you will not have time to do this independently. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience at Ellis Island.