Visiting Ellis Island

[ChiChi]

Posted: 1/20/10 at 4:50pm

I'm just curious. I've been to New York many times but I've never made the trip to the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island. I like to fit in as much as I can when I visit so I am wondering how much time this journey normally takes. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[nmartin]

Posted: 1/20/10 at 6:03pm

It's hard for me to remember because it was well over a decade ago, but I know from the moment we got on the ferry till when we got back we were gone two plus hours. Ellis Island is worth it. I did not like the Statue of Liberty.

[Yero my Hero]

Posted: 1/20/10 at 11:34pm

The Statue of Liberty is really only enjoyable if you LOVE stairs or if you're disabled or injured and get to go up in the elevator (but the elevator only goes up about halfway).

I'd say go to Ellis Island, take your time there, then snap some pictures of the Statue of Liberty from the ground and be on your way.

[Eris0303]

Posted: 1/21/10 at 12:37am

The Statue of Liberty is really only enjoyable if you LOVE stairs or if you're disabled or injured and get to go up in the elevator (but the elevator only goes up about halfway).

Didn't they finally open the crown this past 4th of July?

I recall Ellis Island being fun. My last name is actually on the wall there.

[artscallion]

Posted: 1/21/10 at 7:30am

Unless it's changed in the past few years, if you don't go at the right time most of your day will be spent in line to get on the boat. Go on a weekday, off season, really early, like before they open.

[broadwayjim42]

Posted: 1/21/10 at 8:04am

Get there as early as possible and make some time for Ellis Island...I found my grandparent's records in their research area! My kids and I spent far more time there than the Statue.

[sabrelady]

Posted: 1/21/10 at 9:18pm

Totally worth the visit to Ellis Island. They have different level of tours depending how much time you want to commit to. I recommend 3-4 hours @least.

I had a little "aha" moment there when on the 2nd floor I opened a door to a balcony area and saw the Great Hall from the perspective of ALL those movies featuring immigration shots. The SIZE of the place once filled with "huddled masses yearning to breathe free."

[bdwaygirl]

Posted: 1/21/10 at 10:13pm

Eris, I'm pretty sure the elevator doesn't go up as far as the crown.