Located in Upper New York Bay, Ellis Island received over 12 million people in 1892-1954 who wanted to enter the U.S. For over 60 years it was the United States' busiest immigrant inspection station.
New York Bay used to consist of large tidal flats. Liberty Island, Black Tom Island and Ellis Island were originally named Oyster Islands by the Dutch settlers, due to the abundance of oysters in the area. In the 19th century, Ellis Island was the site of Fort Gibson. In 1965 it became a tourist attraction, part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Tourists can visit the island by purchasing a ferry ticket to the Statue of Liberty.
Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration starts with the Great Hall, where one can really feel the spirit of this place. Many photographs of the immigrants are available in the American Family Immigration History Center. People often search here ship manifests for names of their ancestors.
Even though it's open to visitors all year round except Christmas Day, the best time to visit Ellis Island is during the warmer time of the year from March to November since winters are particularly cold and damp in the New York Harbor. On the other hand, the low season could work well for those whose main priority is to avoid crowds.
Practical info
What's the best timing for visiting Ellis Island?
The ideal time for visiting Ellis Island is between March to November because of the cold, damp winters that may hinder the experience. Low season is an alternative for those that want to avoid the high population. The Island is open to visitors all year round, except on Christmas Day. Show more
How can visitors get to Ellis Island from New York?
Visitors can reach Ellis Island by purchasing ferry tickets to the Statue of Liberty. These ferries are available daily, operating from early mornings to late afternoons and traveling to and from New York City and New Jersey. Visitors are recommended to arrive early to avoid standing in long queues. Show more
Where are the ship manifests in the American Family Immigration History Center?
The American Family Immigration History Center situated on Ellis Island contains ship manifests with immense data, including millions of names of immigrants. They also offer a research facility where visitors can seek out information about their genealogy & family history. Not just the ship manifests, but the research facility offers census records, passenger arrival lists, and naturalization records. Show more
What is located in the Great Hall of Ellis Island?
The Great Hall of Ellis Island is a popular emblem of the immigrant experience. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of millions worldwide, who've passed through the Great Hall during their journey to the US. This hall has been re-established to its original magnificence, containing remarkable architecture and artwork. One of the highlights is the exhibit presenting the various cultural backgrounds of the immigrants at Ellis Island. Show more
What are the tourist attractions available around Ellis Island?
Visitors can travel to Liberty Island, which is a short boat ride from Ellis Island, where the well-known Statue of Liberty is located. Battery Park is also nearby, which has numerous monuments and memorials, such as the Castle Clinton National Monument. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is accessible from Ellis Island and situated in Lower Manhattan. Show more
