Thing to do
Top of the Rock
Three tiers of observation decks atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza give unobstructed views of Central Park and a front-on look at the Empire State Building.
Staten Island Ferry
The free, round-the-clock commuter ferry between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island offers views of the Statue of Liberty and the harbour skyline.
At a glance
- Type
- Free harbour ferry
- Area
- Financial District, New York, United States
- Official site
- siferry.com
Good to know
- Free
- Runs 24 hours
- Lifts and escalators at both terminals
- Bikes allowed on lower level
Why we recommend it
The Staten Island Ferry links the Whitehall Terminal at the southern tip of Manhattan with the St. George Terminal on Staten Island, and for visitors it is one of the best free experiences in the city. The service is run by the City of New York for commuters, but the route across Upper New York Bay passes close to the Statue of Liberty and gives a sweeping view of the Lower Manhattan skyline as you pull away.
The crossing takes about 25 minutes. The large orange boats have indoor seating and outdoor decks; for the best view of the statue on the way out to Staten Island, stand on the right-hand side, and on the return trip head to the front or the left for the skyline. On the way you also see Governors Island, Ellis Island and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in the distance. Beer has returned to the ferry's onboard concessions, so you can have a drink on the deck.
The service is completely free and no ticket is needed. Ignore anyone offering to sell you one; the ferry operator warns about scams. Boats run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During weekday rush hours, from 6am to 9:30am and 3:30pm to 8pm, boats leave every 15 or 20 minutes, with half-hourly departures at other times and every 30 minutes at weekends. Rush-hour boats are full of commuters, and the operator asks that large tour groups avoid them.
Everyone must get off at St. George and walk back through the terminal to board the next boat, which usually means a short wait. If you have time, the waterfront by the terminal has a few things to see, but most visitors simply ride straight back. Both terminals have lifts and escalators, cyclists may board on the lower level, and passengers may be screened at random by NYPD officers and dogs. Allow about an hour for the round trip.
The Whitehall Terminal is at 4 South Street, beside the South Ferry subway station on the 1 line and close to Whitehall Street (R and W) and Bowling Green (4 and 5). Battery Park, where the Statue of Liberty ferries leave, is next door, and the Financial District and Stone Street's restaurants are a few minutes' walk north.
Staten Island Ferry FAQs
How much does the Staten Island Ferry cost?
Nothing. It is a free service provided by the City of New York and no ticket is required.
How long is the crossing?
About 25 minutes each way.
How often do the boats run?
24 hours a day. Every 15 or 20 minutes in weekday rush hours, and every 30 minutes at other times and at weekends.
Where is the best place to stand for the Statue of Liberty?
On the right-hand side of the boat heading out to Staten Island.
Can you stay on the boat for the return trip?
No. Everyone gets off at St. George and walks back through the terminal to board the next departure.
Are the terminals accessible?
Yes. Both terminals have escalators and lifts.
Where does the ferry leave from in Manhattan?
The Whitehall Terminal at 4 South Street, next to the South Ferry subway station.
Can you take a bike on board?
Yes. Cyclists must board on the lower level at both terminals.