Flag Plaza

Some visitors to the Statue of Liberty arrive in search of the first thing their ancestors laid eyes on upon landing in the New World. Others come to fulfill a fascination with an image so recognizable, she has achieved something like celebrity status. Whatever the purpose, Lady Liberty will not disappoint. As one of America's most iconic images, a pilgrimage to this symbol of liberty and peace is a must.Parking and public transportation to the Statue of LibertyStatue Cruises is the official ferry service provider. Ferries depart from Battery Park, which is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. Parking is limited so driving isn't recommended. Tickets to depart from Liberty State Park in New Jersey are also available, where paid parking spaces are plentiful.Best and worst time to go to the Statue of LibertyWinter weekdays, barring major holidays, draw the fewest number of tourists. Prepare for long lines at the ferry terminal during summer months; wait times can stretch to over an hour. If you're set on visiting during the summer, try to book tickets for as early in the morning as possible.Admission to the Statue of LibertyThree options are offered: Reserve Only, Pedestal, or Crown. Crown access typically sells out up to three months in advance. Same-day pedestal access may be available at the ticket office in Battery Park, but online advance reservations are highly recommended. Adult admission begins at $18, and all ticket options include ferry service to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, and audio tours of both places.Must see/do at the Statue of LibertyThe climb to the Statue's crown involves a narrow, winding staircase with a grand total of 354 steps. This may not be suitable for every visitor. The pedestal, however, should not be missed. Pedestal access includes entrance to the Liberty Island museum, where visitors can view the Statue's original torch, and peruse exhibits that explain her conception, engineering, and delicate transport from France to America. The pedestal's observation deck offers gorgeous views of New York's harbor and skyline, and unique vantage points of the Statue's imposing 151-foot height.Other places to visit near the Statue of LibertyBattery Park's waterfront promenade is a scenic place to relax. For those who wish to continue on the trail of history, head to the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, which is now home to the National Museum of the American Indian. The famous Charging Bull of Wall Street is also a short walk away.Insider tip for visitors to the Statue of LibertyPlan well ahead for this one. Buy online tickets as far in advance as possible, print your tickets before arriving at the ferry terminal, and get there at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for the airport style security screening. The Statue's busiest days come with a dose of chaos, so be infinitely patient and ask the nice folks manning the lines for help if you're unsure of anything.Author's bio: Michele DeBella is a freelance writer based in New York City, where her ancestors saw the Statue of Liberty as they began their new lives in the New World.