A Complete Guide Visiting the Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty

The pedestal of the Statue of Liberty is a large stone structure that serves as the foundation/ base of Lady Liberty.

The pedestal has a neoclassical design featuring arches, columns, and reliefs. It was primarily made of granite.

It also contains a museum and observation deck, which provide stunning views of the city and the harbor.

Inside the Statue of Liberty, some stairs take visitors to the deck, crown and torch for an elevated view.

This article will teach us more about this pedestal, including its history, construction, insights, views, accessibility tickets, etc.

Let’s start with some short information!

Planning the Visit to Pedestal

How to Enter the Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty?

The pedestal’s entrance is positioned behind the Statue of Liberty.

To enter, tourists must go through airport-style security.

Those with pedestal reservations must show their tickets to the park rangers at the security structure’s entrance.

All guests (excluding youngsters under the age of four) must display a valid pedestal ticket. 

View from Statue of Liberty Pedestal

You can enjoy stunning views from the outdoor observation deck on the Pedestal’s top.

To reach the top, you must use the spiral staircase, which has 215 steps. Visitors with special abilities can also use the elevator.

From the deck, you can view Manhattan’s iconic skyline, including landmarks like Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center.

You can also see ferries, sailboats, and other vessels filled with visitors crisscrossing the harbor.

Learn more about the best viewpoints>>

Statue of Liberty Pedestal Tickets

Visitors can see the Statue of Liberty for free. However, they only need to pay for the ferry ride and to see the statue from inside.

The ferry tours available on-site are generally costly and have higher crowds.

If you want to reach the Statue of Liberty at your preferred time, we recommend booking ferry ride tours online in advance.

By booking them online in advance, you can secure a spot on the ferry and take advantage of the additional facilities provided there.

Here are some popular Statue of Liberty tours available online:

Picking Up Your Pedestal Reservation

When utilizing a digital ticket to visit the Statue of Liberty, keep in mind that it is located on an island.

Cellular coverage and WiFi availability can be slow or nonexistent.

Hence, we recommend downloading the tickets ahead of time or taking screenshots of previously purchased tickets.

Make sure your mobile gadgets are fully charged before your visit.

Pedestal tickets can be printed at home or picked up at the ticket office Will Call window in Battery Park, New York, or Liberty State Park, New Jersey, by the purchaser.

When picking up the tickets, the buyer must present a photo ID and the credit card used to reserve them.

Pedestal tickets are issued for a specified date and time. The ticket will contain the time to enter.

What to See on the Statue of Liberty Pedestal?

Can we write them on two cards within a row with images on top?

Want to know what’s better, a pedestal or a crown? Read our detailed article on the Statue of Liberty Crown vs. Pedestal here.

Construction and History of the Statue of Liberty Pedestal

There are many stories behind the construction of the statue and its pedestal.

Funding: As the construction of the Statue of Liberty was planned, it became evident that a proper foundation was needed to support its weight.

While France financed the statue’s construction, the American Committee was responsible for funding the pedestal.

Led by publisher Joseph Pulitzer, the American Committee initiated a campaign to fund the construction.

Thousands of individual donors contributed through auctions, benefit performances, and public appeals, including the notable “Penny Fund,” which encouraged ordinary citizens to contribute.

Construction: The construction of the Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty began in 1884 on Bedloe’s Island, now known as Liberty Island.

Under the expertise of Gustave Eiffel, who designed the Eiffel Tower, Richard Morris Hunt designed the pedestal.

The construction process took about two years and was completed in 1886. Taking about two years to complete.

Completion and Dedication: The completion of the Pedestal marked a significant milestone in the construction of the Statue of Liberty’s.

Finally, On October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty was officially dedicated in a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries from both France and the United States.

Learn More about its history>>

Tips to Visit the Pedestal:

Here are some tips for visiting the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty

Bring a Valid ID: You must bring a valid ID to collect your tickets and enter them inside the Pedestal

Pack Light: There is tight security, and certain items are prohibited inside the pedestal, such as metal objects, large bags, food, etc. Consider leaving these items in a locker near the security screening area.

Wear Comfortable Shoes: There are 215 steps to climb to reach the top of the pedestal, so wear comfortable shoes.

Stay Hydrated: While food and drinks are not allowed inside the pedestal, water in clear plastic bottles is permitted. Bring water in clear bottles and stay hydrated, especially if visiting during the warmer months.

Consider the Elevator: If you’re uncomfortable with enclosed spaces or climbing stairs, take the elevator to reach the top of the pedestal.

You can also take a virtual tour of the interiors of the Statue of Liberty before actually visiting it.

FAQs

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