Staten Island Ferry to Statue of Liberty: A Must-See New York Experience

Discover the iconic Staten Island Ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty! Enjoy stunning views of NYC and learn why this ferry trip is a must for every visitor. Find out more about this unforgettable journey today!

Staten island ferry statue of liberty

I’ve been riding the Staten Island Ferry for years, and I’ll tell you why it’s the best-kept secret for viewing the Statue of Liberty. You won’t believe the experience you can get for free!

Why Choose the Staten Island Ferry

Let’s get real – the Staten Island Ferry offers views of Lady Liberty that rival expensive tours. Plus, it’s free! That’s right, you won’t spend a dime for one of New York’s best experiences.

Ferry vs. Paid Tours Comparison

Best Times to Ride

Here’s an insider tip: timing is everything for the perfect Staten Island Ferry experience.

• Sunrise rides offer stunning golden light on the Statue of Liberty with fewer crowds and perfect photography conditions
• Sunset trips create magical silhouettes of the statue and Manhattan skyline – it’s when I take all my best photos
• Off-peak hours (10 AM – 4 PM weekdays) give you more space to move around and find the best viewing spots

Seasonal Photography Tips

Insider Navigation Tips

Trust me on this – knowing how to navigate the ferry makes all the difference.

• Board on the right side (starboard) of the ferry when leaving Manhattan for the best views of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island
• Switch to the left side (port) on the return trip to capture Manhattan’s skyline in all its glory
• Head to the outdoor areas immediately after boarding to secure prime viewing spots near the railings

Essential Information

Making the Most of Your Trip

Here’s how to turn your ferry ride into an unforgettable experience:

• Download a navigation app to track your position and identify landmarks as you pass them – it’ll make you feel like a local tour guide
• Bring your camera’s wide-angle lens to capture both the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline in one shot
• Pack light snacks and water – there’s a cafeteria on board, but you won’t want to leave your viewing spot

What to Bring

• Camera or smartphone with plenty of storage space – you’ll take more photos than you think
• Extra layers – it’s always windier on the water, even in summer
• Comfortable shoes – you’ll want to move around the deck for different viewing angles

Don’t miss this incredible New York experience. The Staten Island Ferry isn’t just a commuter service – it’s your ticket to breathtaking views of Lady Liberty and the city skyline. And remember, the best things in New York really are free!

Staten island ferry directions

From Manhattan:

1. Starting Point: Head to Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan.
   • Address: 4 Whitehall St, New York, NY 10004.
   • Subway Directions: Take the 1, R, or W subway lines to South Ferry station or the 4/5 lines to Bowling Green station.
   • From either station, it’s a short walk to the terminal.
2. Board the Ferry: The Staten Island Ferry departs regularly, offering a free ride to Staten Island, where you can enjoy amazing views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

From Staten Island:

1. The ferry departs from St. George Terminal.
   • Address: 1 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10301.
   • You can reach the terminal via local bus or car.
2. Ferry Schedule: Check the schedule before your trip to ensure a timely departure, as the ferry runs frequently, especially during peak hours.

Staten island ferry parking

• Whitehall Terminal (Manhattan):
  • Address: 4 Whitehall St, New York, NY 10004.
  • There is limited parking near the terminal, and street parking is often metered.
  • Nearby Parking Garages:
    • InterPark – 19 State St, New York, NY 10004.
    • Edison ParkFast – 20 State St, New York, NY 10004.
  • Both offer paid parking options, but availability may vary, especially during peak times.
• St. George Terminal (Staten Island):
  • Address: 1 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10301.
  • Parking Lots: There is a large parking lot at the St. George Terminal, offering affordable, long-term parking.
    • St. George Ferry Terminal Parking Garage: 5 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10301.
    • This garage is convenient for passengers, and it’s typically cheaper than parking in Manhattan.

Other New York city attractions here.