In short
- Crown access requires climbing 377 stairs with no elevator.
- Children must be at least 42 inches tall to enter the crown.
- Pedestal tickets offer an outdoor balcony and elevator access.
In this article
- How many steps to the Statue of Liberty crown?
- Is climbing the Statue of Liberty crown worth it?
- What do you see from the Statue of Liberty pedestal?
- What is the difference between the crown and pedestal?
- How much does it cost to go inside the Statue of Liberty?
- What can you bring inside the pedestal and crown?
Deciding between the Statue of Liberty crown vs pedestal depends on your physical ability and how early you book. Both options require advance reservations and add a $0.30 fee to your base ferry ticket. Here is what you need to know about the views, requirements, and steps for each level.
How many steps to the Statue of Liberty crown?
You must climb 377 steps to reach the crown from the main lobby.
There is no elevator access above the pedestal level. The staircase is narrow and the spaces are tight. You must be able to climb independently. Children must be at least 42 inches tall to enter the crown.
Is climbing the Statue of Liberty crown worth it?
Yes, if you want the highest accessible observation point and do not mind a strenuous climb.
The crown offers panoramic views of New York Harbor through small windows. You also see the internal structure of the copper statue on your way up. Tickets sell out months in advance, so you must book early.
What do you see from the Statue of Liberty pedestal?
The pedestal provides an outdoor balcony with excellent views of the New York skyline.
Located at the base of the statue, this level lets you see the statue's copper exterior up close. Unlike the crown, the pedestal has elevator access. You still need an advance reservation ticket to enter this section.
What is the difference between the crown and pedestal?
The crown is higher and requires climbing stairs, while the pedestal has an outdoor deck and elevator access.
Both sections require a reserved ticket and strict security checks. You must store large bags in lockers before entering either area.
| Feature | The Crown | The Pedestal |
|---|---|---|
| Elevation | Highest access point | Base of the statue |
| Access | 377 stairs only | Elevator available |
| View type | Indoor, small windows | Outdoor balcony |
| Height limit | 42 inches minimum | None |
How much does it cost to go inside the Statue of Liberty?
Access costs $26.30 per adult for the ferry ride plus the monument reservation.
Entry to the island and museums is technically free. The required Statue City Cruises ferry costs from $26.00 per adult. The pedestal and crown require a nominal $0.30 fee added to the ferry cost. Third-party guided tours do not include interior monument access.
What can you bring inside the pedestal and crown?
You can only bring water in a clear plastic bottle and a camera.
Backpacks, large bags, strollers, and large umbrellas are prohibited inside the monument. Lockers are required for all bags and require a $0.25 deposit using U.S. quarters. No other food or drinks are allowed inside.
Questions travellers ask
Can I use an elevator to reach the crown?
No. There is no elevator access above the pedestal. You must climb 377 stairs to reach the crown.
Do guided tours include crown access?
No. Standard guided tours only include access to the Liberty Island grounds. You must book your own pedestal or crown reservation directly.
Are there age restrictions for the crown?
There is no specific age limit, but children must be at least 42 inches tall and able to climb the stairs independently.
