Staten Island Ferry
Sail Free, See Great Views
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Free
Time Needed
25 minutes
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Weather Fit
All weather
Stroller Access
Yes
Washrooms
Available
Food
Limited options
Parking
Not near terminal
Booking
Not required
Parent Effort
Low
A stress-free way to explore NYC with the kids - no tickets, no lines, just stunning skyline sights.
About This Place
The Staten Island Ferry is a free public ferry service connecting Lower Manhattan and St. George, Staten Island, offering some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor, and the Lower Manhattan skyline — all at no cost. The 25-minute crossing is a genuine tourist experience in its own right and one of New York City's best free activities for families. Ferries run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Check the official website for current opening hours.
- Admission
- FREE
Prices were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date rates.
Iconic Sightseeing
Enjoy open views of the Statue of Liberty.
Easy & Inclusive
Perfect for all ages - no reservations needed.
Unforgettable Views
Watch the city come alive from the water.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Cost
- Free
- Operating Hours
- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Booking Required
- No
- Viewing Experience
- Panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor, and Lower Manhattan skyline
- Accessibility
- Open to all ages; no admission requirements
- Outdoor Experience
- Primarily outdoor with open decks for viewing
- Terminal Locations
- Manhattan's Whitehall Terminal and Staten Island's St. George Terminal
Kid Fit by Age
Safe and comfortable with strollers; panoramic views provide visual stimulation without overwhelming noise.
Short, engaging journey with plenty of sights to view; easy to manage on a parent's lap or in a carrier.
Captivating views of ships, the Statue of Liberty, and skyline keep young children interested and entertained.
Educational and entertaining with opportunities to spot landmarks and learn about history and navigation.
Can be enjoyable for sightseeing, though may find the ride too brief unless engaged in commentary or storytelling.
May find it low-key unless paired with educational or adventurous goals; less exciting compared to other urban activities.
Insider Tips
Arrive 15 minutes early to secure a good view spot
St. George terminal has a small gift shop
Check for extra ferry boats during events
- •Keep children close to adults at all times
- •Watch for wet decks after rain
- •Stay behind safety barriers on the deck
- •Step-free access at both terminals
- •Restrooms available at both terminals
- •Seated areas on outdoor decks
schedule Best Time to Visit
Visit mid-week early morning for the quietest experience
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxWater bottle
- check_boxLight jacket
- check_boxCamera
- check_boxSunscreen
- check_boxSnacks
Location
Address
Staten Island Ferry, United States
Make it a half-day
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Last checked: 2026