Seeing the Statue of Liberty for FREE

Even in the depths of winter, the line to get on the Statue of Liberty Ferry snakes through Battery Park as tourists wait, some patiently, some less so, to take the 15 minute ride to the Statue of Liberty. Less than half of them will be able to go into the Statue. Only those who planned several months in advance will climb up to the crown. Just to the south, just far enough around the bend to be out of sight, there is another option.

The Staten Island Ferry is the only connection between Manhattan and Staten Island, and it is primarily a commuter ferry. But the best views of the Statue of Liberty are actually from the Staten Island Ferry. As the ferry swings away from Manhattan, Lady Liberty appears on the right. The statue stays in view for about half of the 25 minute ride, and you’ll get a view from several angles, including a straight on view of her face.

If you go out to Staten Island, you’ll also have to come back. On the way back the Brooklyn Bridge is visible to the right, so don’t spend the whole trip back looking at the statue. But if you didn’t get a good photo on the way there, you will get a second chance.

Now for the details. The Staten Island Ferry runs 24 hours a day, but less frequently in the wee hours of the night. It is the only way to get a good look at the Statue of Liberty at night. For a schedule, visit www.siferry.com. It is free, and there is seating both inside and outside.