Ellis Island

Ellis Island which includes heritage architecture
Ellis Island
Ellis Island featuring interior views
Ellis Island
Ellis Island showing a ferry and general coastal views


Relive 60 years of immigration history as you explore the exhibits of this poignant museum. Find out if your ancestors passed through as they entered the U.S.

Travel by ferry to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Imagine the joy and hopes that earlier immigrants felt as they finished much longer and rougher sea voyages to finally arrive in America. Over 12 million people entered the country through this structure’s golden doors. About half of today’s more than 300 million U.S. citizens descended from these brave immigrants.

Immigration services operated here between 1892 and 1954, with newly arrived visitors spending hours in an inspection process determining if they would be allowed to stay in their land of hope or would be among the 2 percent denied entry. View exhibits showing interpreters, nurses, doctors, inspectors and clerical staff whose daily actions determined the fates of hopeful visitors. Photos and stories relate the dreams of those visitors.

Note Ellis Island’s unusual rectangular shape. A smaller natural island was expanded by landfill to provide a functional base to build the original immigration and service buildings and expanded further over time. See the history of these major projects in the exhibits on the places of importance on the island. The Main Immigration Building, now filled with three floors of exhibits, opened in 1900.

Immigration services ended here in 1954 and the buildings sat idle until the site became part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. By 1990, the National Park Service opened the renovated Main Building to visitors. Search arrival records in the American Family Immigration History Centre.

The only way to reach Ellis Island is by ferries leaving from Battery Park at Manhattan’s southern tip or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Purchase ferry tickets from the authorised National Park Service operator for a specific time and be sure you are in line well before departure time.

The site is open daily except Christmas Day. Join a ranger-led walking tour of the building or purchase a hard-hat tour to see the immigration hospital. Plan to spend several hours at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and enjoy a second stop to see the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island, which is included in the same ferry fee.

Plan a trip to see Ellis Island

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Courtyard New York Manhattan/ Midtown East
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
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Reviews of Ellis Island

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
205
5 - Excellent 52%
4 - Good
141
4 - Good 36%
3 - Okay
45
3 - Okay 11%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

When you buy a ticket inside Castle Clinton, it is usable for the next three days (meaning you don't have to buy your ticket and do the trip in the same day!)

3/5 - Okay

Lauren

it was included as part of the trip to see the statue of liberty but we didn't get off the boat to walk round it

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Make sure you have some time to really visit this place, very interesting with a lot of history held here.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

For me, Ellis Island is a "must do" on any NYC trip. The history blows you away.

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveller

Didn't go there

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Things to do near Ellis Island

Ellis Island offers a rich tapestry of experiences, with a focus on entertainment, theatre, and art. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural scene, exploring captivating performances and exhibitions nearby. The island's historical significance adds depth to the artistic offerings, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both enjoyment and enlightenment during their stay in Jersey City.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Ellis Island, visit Old Colony Square Center, just 621m away, or Newport Centre, 1.2km distant. Chelsea Market offers a vibrant atmosphere and is located 2.5km away—if you're up for a drive, it’s worth the journey for unique finds.

Recreation

Experience the thrill of a game at Barclays Center Brooklyn, just 2.5km from Ellis Island, immersing yourself in the energetic sports atmosphere. Enjoy live performances at Blue Note Jazz Club, 1.9km away, or challenge friends to a fun round at Pier 25 Mini-Golf, located 1.2km from Ellis Island.

Adventure

Experience thrilling fun at DreamWorks Water Park, located 5.0km from Ellis Island, offering exciting slides and family-friendly entertainment. For a romantic stroll, head to the Riegelmann Boardwalk, 5.6km away, where you can enjoy the beach vibes and beautiful ocean views. Don't forget to check out Lincoln Park Tennis Center, just 1.9km away, for some active tennis games.

Nightlife

In Ellis Island, the vibrant nightlife features venues like Bowery Ballroom and Astor Place Theatre, both 1.9km away, offering a blend of entertainment and culture. HERE, also 1.9km distant, provides a romantic atmosphere, perfect for families and couples seeking an unforgettable evening.

Find the best attractions near Ellis Island

Ellis Island offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences, perfect for families and city explorers alike. Key attractions include the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and various historic buildings, as well as nearby urban parks. For a comfortable stay, look for hotels near the immigration museum to make the most of your visit. The distance from Ellis Island is easily traversable, ensuring you can soak in the area's vibrant history and charm.

  • Statue of Liberty: A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty stands majestically just 435m from Ellis Island. Visitors can explore Liberty Island, enjoy guided tours, and learn about its rich history while soaking in stunning views of New York Harbour.
  • Wall Street: Located 1.2km from Ellis Island, Wall Street is the heart of the financial district. Stroll along this iconic street to witness the hustle and bustle of the stock market, historic buildings, and the famous Charging Bull statue, capturing the vibrant city vibe.
  • One World Trade Center: At 1.2km away, One World Trade Center is a poignant tribute to resilience and hope. Visitors can ascend to the observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and reflect on its historical significance.

Best time to go to Ellis Island

The best time to visit Ellis Island is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.2°F (21.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ellis Island

To save money on your trip to Ellis Island, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, preferably on a Sunday for the best rates. Use Expedia to compare room rates and explore last-minute deals. Look for eco-certified hotels to support sustainability while saving money. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to further savings. Prioritise free activities around Jersey City to enhance your experience without stretching your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ellis Island are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to September to October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Ellis Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ellis Island is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Ellis Island is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified option, you'll uncover sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You could save some money by combining your hotel reservation for Ellis Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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