You just landed at EWR. You're staring at the Statue of Liberty from the plane window, thinking, "Hey, it’s right there. I can probably just pop over, grab a selfie with Lady Liberty, and be back for my connection."
Hold on.
Technically, the Newark Airport to Statue of Liberty trip is short on a map—maybe 15 miles. But in the world of Jersey traffic and ferry schedules, it's a mission. If you don't plan this right, you'll end up stuck in a $70 Uber staring at the back of a shipping container on the Turnpike while your flight home departs without you.
Honestly, most people make the massive mistake of trying to go through Manhattan. Don't do that. You’re already in New Jersey. Stay in New Jersey.
The Secret: Liberty State Park vs. Battery Park
There are only two places on Earth where you can catch the official ferry to Liberty Island: Battery Park in Lower Manhattan and Liberty State Park in Jersey City.
If you are coming from Newark Liberty International (EWR), Manhattan is your enemy. To get to Battery Park, you have to cross a tunnel or a bridge, deal with New York City traffic, and then stand in a security line that looks like a Coachella entrance.
Liberty State Park is basically in Newark’s backyard.
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It is quieter. The parking is actually affordable. Most importantly, the ferry ride from the Jersey side hits Ellis Island and the Statue just the same as the New York one, but with about 40% less human chaos.
How to actually get there from EWR
You've basically got three real options. I’m going to level with you on which one sucks and which one works.
The "I have money but no time" move (Rideshare/Taxi): Grab an Uber or Lyft. It’s roughly a 20-minute drive if the gods of the NJ Turnpike are smiling. It’ll cost you anywhere from $45 to $60. Just tell them "Liberty State Park Ferry Terminal." Do not just say "Liberty State Park" or they might drop you at the science center, and you'll be walking a mile in the wind.
The "I’m on a budget" move (Public Transit): This is for the brave. Take the NJ Transit bus #62 from the airport terminal to Newark Penn Station. From there, jump on the PATH train toward World Trade Center, but get off at Exchange Place. Then you have to switch to the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail. It’s a lot of switching. Total cost? Maybe $10. Total time? Usually over an hour.
The "I rented a car" move: Follow the signs for I-70 East/NJ Turnpike. Take Exit 14B. Follow the signs for the Statue of Liberty. There’s a big lot right by the historic CRRNJ Terminal. It's easy.
What you need to know about Statue City Cruises
Here is a hard truth: Statue City Cruises is the only authorized ferry.
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If some guy in a vest at a bus stop tries to sell you "Express Statue Tickets," walk away. They are selling you a boat ride that circles the island but cannot dock. You will be stuck on a boat looking at the statue from 200 yards away like a tourist who didn't read this article.
The Ticket Situation in 2026
Tickets aren't just "tickets." They come in tiers:
- General Admission: Gets you on the island and into the museum.
- Pedestal Access: Gets you inside the stone base. You need to book this weeks out.
- Crown Access: This is the Holy Grail. You’re climbing 354 steps. If you didn't book this 4 months ago, forget it. Seriously.
The ferry from Liberty State Park starts running around 9:00 AM. In the peak summer months, that last ferry back from the islands usually leaves around 5:00 PM. If you miss it, you're not sleeping with the ghosts on Ellis Island—the Park Police will find you, and it won't be fun.
Timing your Newark Airport to Statue of Liberty trip
If you have a 4-hour layover, do not attempt this. You will fail.
You need at least 6 to 7 hours of "real time" to make the Newark Airport to Statue of Liberty journey worth it. Why? Because security at the ferry terminal is "airport-grade." You’re taking off your belt, emptying your pockets, and putting your bag through an X-ray. It takes time.
Once you’re on the island, you’ll want at least 90 minutes to walk around. If you add in Ellis Island (which is included in the ticket and honestly more interesting to some people), add another 2 hours.
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Pro Tip: If you just want a photo and don't care about touching the copper, take an Uber to "Liberty State Park" and walk the promenade. You get a perfect view of the skyline and the Statue for the price of a car ride, no ferry required.
Common Myths vs. Reality
Myth: The ferry from New Jersey is more expensive.
Reality: Nope. The price is the same regardless of which state you start in. As of early 2026, expect to pay around $25–$30 for a standard adult ticket.
Myth: I can take a water taxi from the airport.
Reality: I wish. There is no water access at EWR. You are stuck with wheels or rails until you hit the coast.
What to do with your luggage
This is the biggest headache for travelers doing the Newark Airport to Statue of Liberty dash.
There are no lockers at the ferry terminals. None.
If you show up with a 50-pound suitcase, they won't even let you through security. Most people leave their bags at the airport's luggage storage (if available in your terminal) or use a service like Bounce or LuggageHero in Jersey City.
Actionable Steps for Your Trip
To make this happen without losing your mind, follow this exact sequence:
- Book your ferry tickets online at least two days in advance via the official Statue City Cruises website. Do not print them; just have the QR code on your phone.
- Clear customs and stash your bags. If you're on a layover, use a luggage storage app to find a spot near Liberty State Park or Newark Penn Station.
- Call your Uber/Lyft while you're still walking out of the terminal. The wait times at EWR can be unpredictable.
- Aim for the New Jersey departure. Set your GPS specifically for "1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City, NJ."
- Watch the clock. The last ferry back to New Jersey leaves Liberty Island earlier than the one to Manhattan. Check the physical sign at the dock when you arrive so you don't end up in the wrong state at 6:00 PM.
By staying on the New Jersey side, you bypass the worst of the tourist traps and keep your logistics simple. It’s the difference between a stressful sprint and a genuinely cool afternoon at one of the world's most iconic landmarks.