The Statue of Liberty is probably the most recognizable symbol of New York City. It is also posisbly the most overrated. Don't get me wrong - it is certainly a site to behold and I am grateful to the French for the gift. However with everything to see and do in NYC, why wait in lines up to a few hours long to pay way too much to take a boat to an island to see Liberty up close, when in reality the only way to get a good view is from afar?
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At Least Do This: Get there first thing in the morning.
Alternative: The Staton Island Ferry. The SI Ferry leaves every half hour, a few blocks down the street from the overcrowded Circle Line and Liberty Island boats.
It is 100% FREE.
You will get on the first boat once you arrive.
It takes you within a few hundred yards of the Statue of Liberty - close enough to get some fantastic photos and close enough for you to enjoy the grand view of Liberty and the skyline of Manhattan.
The boat even has a cafe that serves beer.
My suggested plan of attack: When you arrive at the SI terminal, go up the escalators and get as close to the big doors as possible. You will know the doors by the cluster of people around them. When the doors open and people are let on to the boat, immediately head straigh to the other end of the boat and outside to the outdoor deck area at the front of the boat - standing on the right side of the boat. This will afford you the best views of the Statue as the boat heads to Staten Island. (You can always send someone up for a beer.)
Upon arrival in Staten Island, quickly depart and follow the signs back around to get back on the boat to head to Manhattan. (There is no other reason to stick around Staten Island.) Once again head through the boat to what is now the front. This will give you the best views of Brooklyn, the Brooklyn/Manhattan Bridges to the righ side of Manhattan and of course the Manhattan skyline. (As well as Liberty once again.)
The total trip will take you 1 hour instead of the 4-5 often needed to go to Liberty Island.
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on Aug 22, 2007
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