A gift from France in 1886, the Statue of Liberty has stood as a powerful symbol of freedom and democracy for over a century. Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and engineered by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), the statue was a beacon of hope for millions of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island.

Notable for its neoclassical design, the statue features a robed female figure representing Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty. She holds a torch in her right hand and a tablet inscribed with the date of American independence (July 4, 1776) in her left. The internal iron framework supporting the copper exterior was a groundbreaking engineering feat for its time.

Fun fact: The statue’s full name is Liberty Enlightening the World, and from heel to the top of the torch, it stands over 300 feet tall including the pedestal—making it one of the tallest statues in the world at the time of its completion.

Today, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most visited landmarks in the U.S., accessible by ferry from Manhattan. Visitors can explore the pedestal museum, enjoy sweeping views from the crown (with advanced reservations), and learn about the statue’s rich symbolism and historical context.

Statue of Liberty

Visit the iconic Statue of Liberty in New York City—an enduring symbol of freedom and one of America’s most famous landmarks. Learn its fascinating history, explore its stunning neoclassical architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from Liberty Island.

Liberty Island is the home of the Statue of Liberty and provides a picturesque setting for visitors to walk, picnic, and enjoy views of the Manhattan skyline. The island has a rich history—it was originally called Bedloe’s Island and was used for military fortifications before the statue was erected. Today, the island is a peaceful and scenic destination managed by the National Park Service. In addition to the statue itself, the island hosts gardens, memorials, and viewing platforms. It’s also a great spot for photography and guided tours.

Liberty Island

Explore Liberty Island—home of the Statue of Liberty—with walking paths, skyline views, and peaceful green spaces steeped in U.S. history.

Liberty Island

New York, United States

Explore Liberty Island—home of the Statue of Liberty—with walking paths, skyline views, and peaceful green spaces steeped in U.S. history.

Location