The Statue of Liberty National Monument is
reached by the
Statue of Liberty Ferry that leaves every hour from
Battery Park in lower Manhattan.
The Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor has greeted
generations of newcomers to the shores of the United
States. Now a National Monument, this world-famous symbol
of freedom was presented to the United States by France
and was dedicated on October 28, 1886, commemorating
the alliance of the two nations during the American
Revolution.
The 152-foot figure, raised on a 150- foot pedestal, is the
work of Auguste Bartholdi. It underwent intensive renovation
and reopened with a gala celebration on its 100th birthday
on July 4, 1986. The torch has been rebuilt and is now open
to the public.
Visitors can be carried by elevator for the first 10 stories, but
must then climb the winding staircases the remainder of the
way, about 12 stories. There are 2 museums located in the
base of the Statue.
