Ellis Island Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Between 1892 and 1954, about 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island. Today its main building is the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Here's what to know before you go.

Getting there

The only way to reach Ellis Island is the official Statue City Cruises ferry, from The Battery in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. General admission includes both Liberty Island and Ellis Island, and both museums. The free Staten Island Ferry does not stop there.

Plan for both islands

The National Park Service recommends an early ferry if you want to visit both islands in one day. The time on your ticket is when to join the security line, and waits can be an hour or more at busy times.

Don't miss

• The Baggage Room on the first floor, where immigrants arrived with everything they owned.
• The Registry Room upstairs: 200 feet long, 100 feet wide, with a 56-foot ceiling. Its vaulted Guastavino tile ceiling was installed by 1918.
• The Wall of Honor, outside, which lists immigrants whose names were submitted by their families.

Want to go deeper?

The Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour is a 90-minute guided tour of the hospital complex, run by Save Ellis Island. It's for visitors 13 and older and costs extra.

Know before you go

• No suitcases or large bags are allowed, and there are no lockers at the ferry screening.
• Museum entry is included with your ferry ticket.

Take the free Ellis Island audio tour · Plan your day with the Statue of Liberty guide

FAQ

Is Ellis Island included with a Statue of Liberty ticket? Yes. General admission includes both islands and both museums.

How many immigrants came through Ellis Island? About 12 million between 1892 and 1954.

Is there a guided tour? Yes, the Hard Hat Tour, for ages 13 and up, at an extra cost.