Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, which sits on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, is arguably the most famous landmark in the world, perhaps rivaled only by the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Empire State Building, which is also located in New York City. Lady Liberty holds aloft a torch and welcomes all who sail into New York Harbor. Given to the U.S. by France in 1886, the statue stands one hundred and fifty one feet tall on its own. Its height is further elevated to 305 feet if the pedestal and foundation are included. It is made of copper, excepting the torch, which is coated in gold leaf. The poem “The New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus is engraved on a bronze plaque which has been mounted inside the statue herself. Depending on conditions, there are tours available of the monument, along with neighboring Ellis Island, though reservations need to be made well in advance, especially during peak tourist times, usually between June and September. Liberty and Ellis Island are accessible only by ferry boat, so you must plan your time accordingly. At this time, due to security concerns, no one is allowed inside either the crown or torch.

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