A symbol of hope, freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty sits on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The copper and steel statue wears a crown with seven spikes. Some say the seven spikes represent the seven seas and seven continents of the world, others say they represent the rays of the sun and show that Lady Liberty is divine.

History of the Statue of Liberty

The statue, whose formal name is "Liberty Enlightening the World," was dedicated in 1886 by President Grover Cleveland. It was a gift from France, designed by the sculptor Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It was shipped to the US in 214 crates and weighed a total of 225 tons. Once assembled, the statue initially functioned as a lighthouse and was administered by the U.S. Lighthouse Board. The statue was named a national monument in 1924.

Visiting the Crown

To reach the crown of the statue, visitors must climb 354 steps, or the equivalent of 20 floors, up a twisting staircase. At the top, there is a view overlooking New York Harbor. The area inside the crown is cramped, interior temperatures may be 20 degrees warmer than outside, and there is no access or exit other than the single narrow staircase. Visitors only may bring medicines and cameras into the statue.

Tickets and Reservations

Visitors who want to visit the crown must have a ticket. It's best to get them well in advance, although a few tickets are available for same day visits. Tickets can not be purchased on the island.

One person may reserve a maximum of four tickets, and can only reserve them once in any six month period. Note that children need to be at least four feet tall. Photo identification is needed for adults. Tickets are only good for the reserved date and time, and may not be transferred. Visitors may secure personal belongings in the locker room facility before climbing up to the crown. The lockers cost $2 for a two-hour period and only bills are accepted (no coins or credit cards).

Additional Information

The Statue of Liberty is 305 feet, 1 inch tall and faces southeast. Access to the statue is by ferries, which sail from New York and New Jersey. The National Park Service has the right to cancel reservations at any time for weather, safety, hazardous conditions or other reasons, as necessary. After the Twin Towers were attacked by terrorists in 2001, the statue was closed to visitors until July 4, 2009, although the lower observation deck and pedestal were opened again in 2004.

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