The entrance to Liberty State Park is free, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers and state park touring enthusiasts. However, there are additional costs associated with visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island by ferry. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the details you need to plan your visit to Liberty State Park.
The Entrance Fee to Liberty State Park
The entrance to Liberty State Park is completely free for all visitors. This means you can access the park, explore the grounds, and enjoy the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty without having to pay any admission fees.
Parking at Liberty State Park
While the entrance to the park is free, there is a fee for parking. The current parking rates at Liberty State Park are as follows:
| Vehicle Type | Parking Fee |
|---|---|
| Cars | $7 per vehicle |
| Buses | $35 per vehicle |
| RVs | $15 per vehicle |
Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and it is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak visitation times, to secure a spot.
Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
If you plan to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, you will need to purchase ferry tickets. The ferry service is operated by Statue Cruises, the official concessioner of the National Park Service. The current ferry ticket prices are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (13+ years) | $23.50 |
| Child (4-12 years) | $12 |
| Infant (3 and under) | Free |
These ferry tickets include access to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. However, there are additional costs for accessing the pedestal and crown of the Statue of Liberty, which require separate reservations.
Getting to Liberty State Park
For visitors coming from New York City, there are several transportation options to reach Liberty State Park:
- Subway: Take the Local 1 (7th Avenue Line) to South Ferry, or the Express (Lexington Avenue Line) 4 or 5 to Bowling Green, or the Local from Brooklyn/Queens R/W to Whitehall Street Station.
- Bus: Take the M15 (East Side) South Ferry or the M6 (West Side) from 57th Street.
- Driving: Take the FDR Drive South and exit at South Ferry Battery Park for the East Side, or take the Westside Highway South (9A) to Battery Park for the West Side.
For those traveling from New Jersey, take the New Jersey Turnpike and exit at 14-B, following the signs to Liberty State Park. You can also take the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) to the Liberty State Park Station and then walk or bike 1 mile on Audrey Zapp Drive to the ticket office area located by the CRRNJ Terminal.
Conclusion
Liberty State Park offers a unique and budget-friendly opportunity to explore the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. With free entrance to the park and a range of transportation options, it’s an accessible destination for state park touring enthusiasts and families alike. Remember to plan ahead for ferry tickets and reservations, and enjoy the stunning views and rich history of this remarkable New Jersey landmark.