| The
Statue of Liberty will welcome back visitors for the first time in more than two
years after extensive renovations and security upgrades to the national monument.
Visitors will be able to enter the pedestal where a new glass ceiling provides
a view into the Statue's intricate interior structure and Park Rangers teach guests
about the rich history and architecture of the monument. In addition, visitors
will be able to enjoy the 360 degree views of New York City from the Statue's
observation deck located 16 stories above New York Harbor, and walk the promenades
on Ft. Wood at the base of the Statue. "Millions
of people from around the world travel to New York for the majestic sight of the
Statue of Liberty - a symbol of our nation's freedom and hospitality," said
Jonathan M. Tisch, Chairman of NYC & Company. "These visitors will not
only make a trip to the Statue in increased numbers - they will dine in our restaurants,
shop in our stores and stay in our hotels, helping drive lower Manhattan and New
York City's economy." "The
Statue of Liberty is not only a national treasure, but a revered symbol of New
York City's spirit," said Cristyne L. Nicholas, President and CEO of NYC
& Company. "Since 1886, Lady Liberty has welcomed millions of visitors
to the World's Second Home and now with more to explore, she can welcome them
back in larger numbers to lower Manhattan and Liberty Island." Tickets
and Reservation Information Tickets
to tour the Statue of Liberty monument can be obtained at Castle Clinton National
Monument in Battery Park, or by calling 1-866-STATUE4 (1-866-782-8834) U.S. calls
only. Callers from outside the U.S. can call the NY ticket office at (212) 269-5755. A
timed-pass ticket is required to enter the monument. A limited number of daily
tickets are available on a walk-in basis at the Circle Line ferry office at no
additional cost. Timed passes can also be reserved for a handling fee of $1.75
per ticket by calling 1-866-STATUE-4. Beginning
August 16th, visitors can log onto www.statuereservations.com
for advance ferry tickets and reservations for the Promenade and Observatory Tours.
Visitors
who don't make reservations can still visit Liberty Island, and take park ranger-guided
tours or listen to an audio tour, but will not be allowed inside the monument.
The following tours are available to those visiting
Liberty Island:
- PROMENADE
TOUR - With breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and New York
Harbor, this tour takes visitors outside the lower Promenade and inside the monument
lobby to see the original torch and the Statue of Liberty Exhibit for a 20-30
minute Ranger-guided tour, with enhanced lighting and new video system.
- OBSERVATORY
TOUR - This option includes both the Promenade tour, plus a visit to
the pedestal observation platform where visitors can view the Statue's interior
framework through a new glass ceiling portal. The ranger-guided program teaches
visitors about the Statue's design, history and architecture.
- ANTENNA
AUDIO TOUR - Listen to voices of generations past as they recall their
voyages to America, hear the story behind the Statue and learn what it really
was like to pass through immigration on Ellis Island. Designed to allow you to
go at your own pace and create your own tour. The Statue's crown and torch are
not accessible
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