Both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are free. But there’s a catch — you have to buy a ferry ticket to get there.

Because of large crowds, purchasing advance tickets online is recommended. The first stop is Liberty Island and you don’t even have to get off. Some find that the best views of the statue are from the boat. However, it you want to tour the pedestal or the crown, you do need to get off the ferry. (more…)