Viator Rating : 5 (2182 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.3/10 (Solid Experience)
New York City
Liberty & Ellis Island Tour: Ferry & Expert Guide
Overview
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry is a must-do when visiting New York City. It's a chance to see a true American symbol up close. This tour gives people choices. There's a shorter, two-hour tour and a longer, four-hour tour. Choose the one that works best!
What to expect on this tour is a walk through history. The adventure starts in The Battery, a park with lots of stories. From there, see Castle Clinton, a very old building. A ferry boat will take guests across New York Bay to Liberty Island, where Lady Liberty stands tall. People can also visit Ellis Island, where many immigrants first arrived in America.
The tour includes a pre-reserved ticket to Statue of Liberty Island, so guests can see it up close (but only from the outside). The 4-hour tour also includes an official audio guide on Ellis Island and a pre-reserved ticket to the Ellis Island museum. A local guide will lead the way, sharing interesting stories. What's not included is tips for the guide, pickup or drop-off from hotels, and access to the top of the Statue of Liberty. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Logistics (6 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (5 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Lady Liberty Up Close: Get amazing views of the Statue of Liberty from the ferry and Liberty Island.
Expert Local Guide: Learn interesting facts and stories from a friendly New York guide.
Visit Ellis Island: Explore the historic Ellis Island, where immigrants arrived in America (4-hour tour only).
Skip the Ticket Line: Pre-reserved tickets save time so guests can see more.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoyed the guide's knowledge and stories.
-
Visitors appreciated the pre-booked tickets that saved time.
-
Many found the tour well-organized and informative.
-
The ferry ride provided great views of the city and Statue of Liberty.
Some visitors felt the tour was too rushed.
-
A few people wished for more time at each location.
The Journey
The Battery
Begin your exploration at The Battery, formerly Battery Park, a vibrant waterfront park steeped in history. Originally a defense point, it's now a bustling hub offering stunning views of the New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Wander through its gardens, discover historical monuments, and feel the pulse of New York City's maritime past. This is the perfect starting point for your island adventure.
Castle Clinton
Step back in time at Castle Clinton, a remarkable circular sandstone fort, originally built to defend New York Harbor in the early 19th century. Now a National Monument, it serves as the departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take a moment to appreciate its architectural significance and learn about its transformation from a fort to an aquarium and even a theater. It provides essential context for the historical journey ahead.
New York Bay Ferry
Embark on a scenic ferry ride across the majestic New York Bay, offering unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the surrounding harbor. Feel the refreshing sea breeze as you capture stunning photographs and anticipate your arrival at Liberty Island. This voyage provides a unique perspective of the city and sets the stage for an unforgettable encounter with American history and culture.
Liberty Island
Discover Liberty Island, home to the iconic Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy. Explore the island's grounds, delve into the statue's fascinating history, and learn about its construction and cultural significance. Take advantage of the opportunity to enter the Statue of Liberty Museum and ascend to the pedestal or crown for breathtaking panoramic views of New York City. It is an experience that connects you to the heart of American ideals.
Ellis Island
Journey to Ellis Island, the historic gateway for millions of immigrants who arrived in America seeking a new life. Explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, housed in the beautifully restored main building, and trace the immigrant experience through poignant exhibits and personal stories. Reflect on the courage and resilience of those who shaped the nation, and perhaps even uncover your own family's immigration history. The audio guide enriches this profoundly moving experience.
Return Ferry to Battery Park
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a return ferry ride to Battery Park, offering a final, stunning view of the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline. Reflect on the historical significance of the sites you've visited as you glide across the water. Capture one last glimpse of Lady Liberty, a powerful reminder of freedom and opportunity, before returning to the vibrant energy of Manhattan.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a pre-reserved ferry ticket to Liberty Island (exterior access only). The 4-hour option also includes a ticket to Ellis Island & its museum, plus an audio guide. A local, English-speaking guide will lead the walking tour. This tour does not include gratuities, hotel pick-up or drop-off, or access to the Statue of Liberty's crown and pedestal. Meet the guide at The Battery.
Hot Tip
Reviewers suggest arriving early to The Battery to allow time to pass through security. Wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking. Bring water and snacks, especially on the longer tour option.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour highly praised for knowledgeable guides, efficient skip-the-line ferry access, and comprehensive coverage of Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island highlights, with many appreciating the engaging history stories and photo opportunities. Some note minor drawbacks like limited time on islands for in-depth exploration and weather dependency, but overall satisfaction remains high for value and convenience.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
New York City
$38
Central Park Pedicab Tour: See NYC's Green Heart!
5.0
(7079 reviews)
Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours offer a fun and easy way to see New York's famous park! Forget walking – relax in a comfy pedicab while an expert guide shows the best sights. This private tour is perfect for families and anyone who wants a personal experience.
See famous spots like the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, where many movies have been filmed. The tour also goes past the beautiful Bow Bridge and the Strawberry Fields memorial to John Lennon. You'll also see the Dakota Building, where he lived. The guide knows lots about the park's history and will point out the best places for photos.
This tour includes a cozy pedicab ride, a friendly guide, and great photo stops. In cold weather, a warm blanket keeps riders snug. Gratuities are not included.
New York City
$130
NYC Chinatown & Little Italy Food Tour: Original Since '09
5.0
(2187 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
The Original NYC Guided Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy offers a delicious journey through two of New York City's most vibrant neighborhoods. Since 2009, this tour has been exploring the tastes and history of Chinatown and Little Italy, offering a unique experience for locals and visitors alike. It's a tasty way to get to know the city!
Guests will enjoy 2-3 seated tastings and 5-6 on-the-go tastings, with options for vegetarian and gluten-free diets available upon request. The tour includes water, tea, and a choice of wine or beer for those 21 and over at a seated tasting. From savory dumplings to authentic Italian meals, participants leave with a full stomach and a newfound confidence in navigating these colorful neighborhoods.
This walking food tour visits historical landmarks and explores cultural treasures. Each guest receives a helpful recommendation list and map to continue exploring after the tour. Operated by friendly guides, this tour promises an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with fascinating stories and culinary delights.
New York City
$65
Central Park Pedicab Tour: See NYC's Best in 1 Hour!
5.0
(589 reviews)
Central Park Guided Pedicab Tours offers a fun way to see the best of Central Park! This private, one-hour tour takes visitors through the park's most famous spots. Get ready to uncover the magic of this iconic New York City landmark.
The pedicab tour includes stops at Strawberry Fields, Bethesda Fountain, and Bow Bridge. Each stop allows time to walk around and explore the area up close. Visitors will also see sights like Summer Stage, Bethesda Terrace, The Plaza Hotel, Tavern on the Green, and the Sheep Meadow. This tour provides a relaxing way to experience Central Park's beauty and history.
Expect a comfortable ride with a professional guide who knows all about Central Park. This tour includes a pedicab ride around Central Park and visits the Central Park Carousel, The Dairy, Central Park Zoo, The Mall, Balto Statue, SummerStage, Conservatory Water, The Lake, Loeb Boathouse, Bethesda Terrace, Bethesda Fountain, Cherry Hill, Bow Bridge, San Remo Apartments, and The Dakota Apartments.
Philadelphia
$43.5
Philly's Old City: History Walking Tour - 10+ Top Sites
4.9
(2017 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with 10+ Top Sites is a chance to walk where America began! This walking tour is perfect for history lovers who want to see the most important places in Philadelphia's Old City. A former comedian and history teacher leads the tour, making it fun and interesting.
Expect to see places like the Betsy Ross House, where the first American flag was made, and Elfreth's Alley, one of the oldest streets in America. The tour also walks by the Ben Franklin Bridge, Christ Church, and the Philadelphia First Post Office. Guests will also get to see Declaration House (Graff House), Independence National Historical Park Portrait Gallery, Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall!
This 90-minute tour makes sure guests see all the important spots and learn about the history of the United States. It includes a guide and photo stops at over 10 sites. What's not included is gratuities.
New York City
€55
French Harlem Tour: Discover Culture & History
5.0
(344 reviews)
Duration: 210
minutes
Harlem Guided Tour in French: Discover the heart of Harlem, a neighborhood in New York City filled with history and culture, on this guided tour in French. This walking tour is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about the social and cultural importance of Harlem's African-American community.
What to Expect: Explore famous landmarks and learn about their historical and cultural significance. You'll see places that have shaped Harlem into what it is today. This tour is led by French-speaking guides who have lived in New York for years and are excited to share their knowledge and passion for Harlem with visitors. This experience excludes gratuities and snacks.
This tour ensures an engaging and informative experience as the guide shares interesting facts and stories about Harlem. With a small group, you'll have a more personal experience and be able to ask questions. Discover the soul of Harlem with a professional French guide.
New York City
$39
High Line & Chelsea Tour: Art, History & Hidden Gems
4.9
(1235 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour takes you on a walk through a special park built on old train tracks in New York City. This park is called the High Line. It's in a neighborhood called Chelsea, on the west side of Manhattan. A guide from ExperienceFirst will show the way.
This tour is great because the guides know a lot about the area. They will point out cool buildings and art. They will also tell secrets about the High Line that most people don't know. You'll even see the Meatpacking District, which has a lot of character. By starting early, the tour helps people make the most of their day.
What to Expect: The tour visits the Chelsea Market, a busy place full of food and shops. It also walks along the High Line, a park with plants and great views of the city. People will learn about the history of the area and see how it has changed. The tour includes a guide who knows a lot about the area. It does not include tips for the guide or any food or drinks. People will walk around Chelsea and the Meatpacking District.
Nearby Events
The Met Presented by Highmark
Nov 19
7:00 PMDaniel Sloss: BITTER Tour at The Met Philly
Daniel Sloss: BITTER brings the Scottish comedy powerhouse to The Met Presented by Highmark in Philadelphia for his brand new tour. Known for Netflix specials like DARK and Jigsaw, Sloss delivers razor-sharp stand-up that blends dark humor, personal vulnerability, and incisive social commentary, captivating audiences worldwide.[1][4]
Daniel Sloss started performing at 16, became the youngest comedian for a solo West End season at 19, and has created 13 solo shows with record-breaking tours across 50+ countries. The Met Presented by Highmark offers an intimate historic setting perfect for live comedy.[1][4]
Xcite Center
Jun 06
8:00 PMTheresa Caputo Live at Xcite Center Bensalem
Theresa Caputo brings her celebrated mediumship and emotional storytelling to the Xcite Center in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, for an unforgettable evening of spiritual connection and healing. Known as the host of the hit TV series "Long Island Medium," Caputo has captivated millions with her ability to communicate with loved ones who have passed, offering comfort and closure to audiences worldwide. This intimate live experience allows attendees to witness her extraordinary gift firsthand in a state-of-the-art venue designed for premium entertainment.
Theresa Caputo's live performances are deeply personal events where she conducts readings with audience members, delivering messages that often leave attendees moved and transformed. At the Xcite Center, a premier destination for live entertainment in the Philadelphia region, guests will experience crystal-clear sound and cutting-edge production that amplifies the power of Caputo's spiritual work, creating an atmosphere of connection and wonder.
The Wellmont Theater
Aug 23
6:00 PMThe Wiggles Tree of Wisdom Spectacular Montclair
The Wiggles - Tree of Wisdom Spectacular! brings Australia's most beloved children's music phenomenon to The Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ on August 23, 2026. This high-energy, all-ages celebration features the iconic group performing timeless hits like "Hot Potato" and "Fruit Salad Yummy Yummy" alongside brand-new songs from their latest album, The Tree of Wisdom, complete with the album's viral titular character brought to life on stage. The performance promises an enthralling live experience filled with surprises, dancing, and sing-along moments that create lasting family memories.
The Tree of Wisdom marks The Wiggles' most magical live show experience to date, showcasing the group's evolution since their groundbreaking emergence in the early 1990s. The four members, recognized worldwide by their signature colored skivvies, have become the most successful children's act of all time, and this tour represents their biggest and brightest production yet. The Wellmont Theater, a premier venue in Montclair, provides an intimate yet spectacular setting for this entertainment phenomenon.
The Met Presented by Highmark
Apr 22
7:30 PMMel Robbins: Let Them Tour 2026 at The Met Philadelphia
Mel Robbins brings her groundbreaking Let Them Tour 2026 to The Met Presented by Highmark in Philadelphia, offering an empowering live experience that blends motivational speaking, storytelling, and actionable life strategies. Known for her viral TED Talk and best-selling books, Robbins is set to deliver her signature blend of humor, honesty, and practical advice, helping audiences reclaim their power and live with confidence.
The Let Them Tour is inspired by Robbins’ latest book, which has topped bestseller lists worldwide and introduced millions to the simple yet transformative “Let Them” philosophy. The Met Presented by Highmark, a historic venue renowned for its intimate atmosphere and state-of-the-art sound, provides the perfect backdrop for this inspiring event.
Town Hall
Mar 30
7:30 PMGabrielle Bernstein: Time to Trust at Town Hall
Gabrielle Bernstein: Time to Trust lights up the Town Hall stage in New York, NY, delivering a transformative lecture on spiritual guidance and manifestation tailored for 2026.[2][5] This intimate seminar draws from her powerful rituals for connecting with spirit guides, scripting divine visions, and embracing intuitive trust, as shared in her recent YouTube teachings and GMA appearances.[1][4]
Gabrielle Bernstein, a leading spiritual teacher with over 20 years of sobriety, trauma recovery, and personal evolution, empowers audiences to uplevel through quantum shifts and co-creation with higher guidance.[1][6] Her work, including the 2026 mantra 'Stop chasing and start allowing,' resonates deeply with fans seeking clarity and manifestation strategies.[3][4] The iconic Town Hall, a historic New York venue famed for lectures and performances, provides an intimate setting for this profound experience.[2]
Xfinity Mobile Arena
Jun 07
8:00 PMJosh Groban & Jennifer Hudson — Philadelphia Live
Josh Groban with special guest Jennifer Hudson at Xfinity Mobile Arena brings two powerhouse vocalists together for a lush, genre-spanning concert experience that blends pop, adult contemporary and theatrical flair; the pairing follows Groban’s continued prominence as a crossover vocalist and Hudson’s acclaimed career as an EGOT-winning powerhouse, creating a rare co-headline night of soaring ballads and dynamic duets.
Josh Groban’s catalog (including hits from Closer and Awake and stage work that reinforced his crossover appeal) pairs naturally with Jennifer Hudson’s soulful, Oscar-winning stature and show-stopping vocal moments, promising emotive renditions and likely surprises from both artists; Xfinity Mobile Arena — Philadelphia’s large-scale, modern arena — provides full production capabilities and an energetic concert atmosphere suitable for both intimate moments and big-production numbers.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Brooklyn
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Brooklyn From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Walking Tours & Rock in Brooklyn. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Brooklyn Activities