One of the most famous attractions in New York, the Statue of Liberty was given to the United States as a symbol of friendship by the French people and was intended to help celebrate the country’s centennial celebration, in 1876.

After a few financial setbacks, the statue was officially opened on October 28, 1886 (only 10 years late). Since then, the Statue of Liberty – located in the New York Harbor on Liberty Island – has been a symbol of freedom and democracy, recognised around the world, and was the first image of the United States seen by millions of people migrating to the country in the late 19th century and early 20th century.

Today, thousands of people visit the Statue of Liberty every day. To make the trip yourself, you’ll need to purchase a ferry ride embarking from either Battery Park or New Jersey out to the island for $5-$13, depending on age and other factors.

Ferries run from 8:30am to 4:30pm, with the last returning ferry reaching Battery Park at 6:30pm. To explore the statue’s pedestal, the museum, or climb to the Crown, it’s only $3 extra. All-in-all, the Statue of Liberty is a must for your trip and one of the greatest attractions in New York.