Times Square to Statue of Liberty Distance: Walking, Ferry & Subway Options
- The distance from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty is approximately 5–6 miles (8–10 km), depending on the route. Travelers typically take the subway to Battery Park followed by a ferry to Liberty Island.
🚗 Times square to Statue of liberty Distance
📍 From: Times square
🎯 To: Statue of liberty
🕒 Estimated Travel Time: 2–4 hours (by road)
📏 Distance: Approximate road distance
This route includes the best road options, travel tips and navigation map.
Introduction
The distance between Times Square and the Statue of Liberty is roughly 5–6 miles (8–10 km). Since the Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island, visitors travel by subway to Battery Park in Lower Manhattan and then take an official ferry.
Did you know the Statue of Liberty sits on an island — and no road, bridge, or tunnel connects it to Manhattan? That surprises thousands of visitors every year. The distance from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty is about 5 miles. You must take a subway to Battery Park and then a ferry to Liberty Island.You might assume the Times Square to Statue of Liberty distance is just a short cab ride away. It is not quite that simple. Liberty Island sits in New York Harbor, and reaching it requires a ferry — no exceptions.
The good news? Getting from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty is straightforward once you know the route. The total journey takes between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on how you travel through the city. Travel The World Today guides you in every stage — from leaving your Times Square hotel to stepping onto Liberty Island for your first view of Lady Liberty up close.
This guide covers the exact distance, every transport option available, current costs, and the smartest tips to make your visit seamless.
How Far Is Times Square from the Statue of Liberty?
The straight-line Times Square to Statue of Liberty distance is approximately 7.5 miles (12 kilometers). However, because Liberty Island sits in New York Harbor, there is no direct road route to the statue itself.
Here is how the distance breaks down in practical terms:
- Times Square to Battery Park (Whitehall Ferry Terminal): approx. 4.5 miles by road
- Battery Park to Liberty Island (ferry crossing): approx. 1.6 miles by water
- Total end-to-end distance (dock door): approx. 6 to 7 miles
The Whitehall Terminal at Battery Park in Lower Manhattan is where you catch the official Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Ferry. Whether you take the subway, bus, or taxi from Times Square, this terminal is your departure point.
Can You Walk from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty?
Can you walk from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty? Partially — yes. You can walk from Times Square all the way to Battery Park, where the ferry departs. That is a walk of approximately 4.5 miles through Midtown and Lower Manhattan, taking around 90 minutes on foot.
Once you reach the waterfront, however, walking ends. There is no bridge, causeway, or pedestrian path to Liberty Island. The ferry is the only way across, and it is the same ferry whether you walk to the terminal or take the subway.
Is Walking to the Ferry Worth It?
If you enjoy urban exploration and have the time, walking is a rewarding experience. The route from Times Square takes you through the Garment District, Tribeca, and the Financial District — neighborhoods full of character and history.
But if your goal is to maximize time on Liberty Island, skip the walk. The subway gets you to the ferry terminal in under 30 minutes and costs only $2.90. Save your energy for the island itself.
Pro Tip: If you do walk, take Broadway south from Times Square. It is the most direct and scenic route to Battery Park, passing through some of Manhattan’s most iconic blocks.
Best Ways to Get from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty
You have four main options. Each works — but they vary significantly in cost, speed, and convenience.
1. By Ferry — The Official Route
The Times Square to Statue of Liberty ferry route is the classic choice. The official Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal at Battery Park and stops at Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
Step-by-step directions from Times Square to the ferry:
- Head to Times Square-42nd Street subway station.
- Board the 1 train (southbound, direction: South Ferry).
- Ride to South Ferry station — the last stop on the 1 line (approx. 20 minutes).
- Walk 5 minutes northwest to the Whitehall Terminal / Battery Park ferry dock.
- Show your ticket and board the ferry.
- The ferry crossing to Liberty Island takes approximately 15 minutes.
Ferry operating hours: Ferries typically run from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM (last departure), with seasonal changes. Always confirm on the official National Park Service website before your visit.
Ferry cost: Included with your Statue of Liberty ticket purchase. Ferry transportation is bundled into every ticket tier.
2. By Subway — Fastest and Cheapest
The subway is the smartest way to cover the Times Square to the Statue of Liberty distance by train. It is fast, reliable, and costs under $3.
How to get to the Statue of Liberty from Times Square by subway:
- Enter Times Square-42nd Street station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E, N, Q, R, W lines).
- Take the 1 train southbound toward South Ferry.
- Ride to South Ferry (last stop, approx. 20–25 minutes).
- Exit and walk 5 minutes to the Whitehall Terminal at Battery Park.
- Board your pre-booked ferry to Liberty Island.
Subway fare: $2.90 per ride using OMNY (tap-to-pay) or MetroCard. Transfers between subway lines within the system are free.
Total time from Times Square to Liberty Island: Approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
Key Takeaway: The 1 train to South Ferry is the single most direct subway route. Do not overthink it — this is the route New Yorkers use.
3. By Bus — Scenic and Budget-Friendly
The Times Square to Statue of Liberty distance by bus works well if you prefer above-ground travel or want to see more of the city along the way.
Best MTA bus routes from Times Square to Battery Park:
- M20 bus: Runs south along 7th and 8th Avenue toward Battery Park. Travel time: 45 to 65 minutes (traffic dependent).
- M5 bus: Travels south on 6th Avenue and Broadway toward Lower Manhattan. Travel time: 50 to 60 minutes.
Bus fare: $2.90 — identical to subway fare. Free transfers between bus and subway within three hours using OMNY or MetroCard.
Buses are ideal for relaxed travelers not on a tight schedule. Avoid buses during weekday rush hours (7–10 AM and 4–7 PM) — traffic in Midtown and Lower Manhattan can double your travel time.
4. By Taxi or Rideshare — Convenient but Pricier
The Times Square to Statue of Liberty taxi fare typically runs $20 to $35 for a yellow cab, not including tip or surcharges. Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) fall in the same range, with surge pricing possible during peak hours and weekends.
Keep this in mind: a taxi drops you off at Battery Park — not on the island. You still need to board the ferry. Taxis offer door-to-door convenience from your hotel lobby to the terminal, but they do not bypass the ferry step.
Estimated taxi travel time: 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Budget Tip: A taxi costs 7 to 10 times more than the subway for the same destination. For solo travelers or couples, the subway makes far more financial sense. Taxis shine for families with strollers, elderly travelers, or anyone with heavy luggage.
Full Comparison Table: All Travel Options from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty
| Transport Option | Estimated Total Time | Approx. Cost (one-way to terminal) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway (1 train to South Ferry) | 45–60 min | $2.90 | Speed, budget |
| MTA Bus (M20 or M5) | 60–75 min | $2.90 | Sightseeing, no rush |
| Taxi / Yellow Cab | 30–50 min | $20–$35 + tip | Comfort, groups |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 30–50 min | $18–$40 (varies) | Convenience |
| Walking to terminal + ferry | 90 min walk + 15 min ferry | Free walk | City explorers |
| Guided tour package | Varies (3–8 hrs) | $50–$120+ | Hassle-free, all-inclusive |
Note: All options above require a Statue of Liberty ferry ticket to board the island.
Statue of Liberty Tickets: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Statue of Liberty tickets are required for all visitors and cover round-trip ferry transportation from Battery Park. There are several ticket tiers:
- Reserve (Grounds Access): Entry to Liberty Island grounds only. Great for exterior photos and views. Most affordable option.
- Pedestal Access: Includes grounds plus access to the pedestal and the Statue of Liberty Museum inside. Book in advance — these sell out.
- Crown Access: The ultimate experience. You climb 354 steps to the crown for panoramic harbor views. Book this 3 to 6 months in advance — it sells out fast.
- Ellis Island Combo: Combines Liberty Island and Ellis Island in one ticket. Ideal if you have a full day to spend.
Where to buy: Purchase directly from the official Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation website (statueofliberty.org). Avoid street vendors near Battery Park selling “discount” tickets — these are frequently scams or overpriced third-party deals.
Typical adult ticket prices:
- Grounds only: approx. $24
- Pedestal access: approx. $24 (included in standard ticket with booking)
- Crown access: approx. $24 + separate crown reservation fee
Important: Crown and pedestal tickets are not available at the gate. You must book them online before your visit. If you arrive without a pedestal or crown reservation, you will only have grounds access.
Top Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty from Times Square
Start Early
Ferries fill up fast — especially from June through August. Aim to reach Whitehall Terminal by 8:00 AM for the first departure. Leave Times Square by 7:00 AM on the 1 train to give yourself a comfortable buffer.
Book Tickets Online — Always
Online ticket holders access a separate, faster check-in lane at the terminal. Walk-up ticket lines can stretch 45 minutes to over an hour during peak season. There is no reason to wait in that line.
Plan for a Full Day
Visiting both Liberty Island and Ellis Island takes a minimum of 5 to 7 hours. Factor in travel time from Times Square, security screening at the terminal, time on both islands, and the return ferry. Do not try to squeeze this into a half-day if you want a quality experience.
Check Weekend Subway Service
NYC subway lines frequently run on modified schedules on weekends due to MTA maintenance. Check the MTA website or use Google Maps before heading out on a Saturday or Sunday — the 1 train to South Ferry sometimes experiences delays or rerouting.
Dress for Harbor Weather
New York Harbor is significantly windier and cooler than midtown streets, even in summer. Bring a light jacket or layer. During fall and winter visits, dress warmly — the ferry deck is fully exposed to the elements.
Pack Smart
Security screening at the terminal is similar to airport security. Bags go through X-ray machines. Keep your carry-on simple. Leave large suitcases and oversized bags at your hotel.
Combine with Lower Manhattan Sightseeing
Battery Park sits steps away from several major NYC attractions. Before or after your ferry, explore:
- The 9/11 Memorial & Museum (10-minute walk)
- Wall Street and the Charging Bull
- South Street Seaport (15-minute walk east)
- One World Trade Center observation deck
Making a full Lower Manhattan day out of your trip is one of the smartest ways to use your time in New York City.
Key Takeaways
- The Times Square to Statue of Liberty distance is approximately 7.5 miles straight-line, with 4.5 miles of road travel to the Battery Park ferry terminal.
- You cannot walk to Liberty Island — the ferry is mandatory for the final stretch.
- The 1 subway train to South Ferry is the fastest, cheapest way from Times Square to the ferry terminal.
- Taxi fare from Times Square to Battery Park runs $20 to $35, not including ferry costs.
- Always book Statue of Liberty tickets online in advance, especially for pedestal or crown access.
- Plan for a full day if visiting both Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
Conclusion
The Times Square to Statue of Liberty distance is no obstacle once you know the route. Whether you hop on the 1 train for a quick 20-minute subway ride, board a bus for a scenic journey through Manhattan, or grab a taxi straight to the terminal, the path to Lady Liberty is well within reach. The key is knowing where to go, what to book in advance, and how much time to allow.
Travel The World Today guides you in every stage — from your hotel in Times Square to the moment you step off the ferry and see the Statue of Liberty standing tall in the harbor. Plan, book your tickets online, and make this iconic New York City experience one you will never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How far is Times Square from the Statue of Liberty?
The straight-line distance is approximately 7.5 miles (12 km). The practical travel distance — Times Square to Battery Park ferry terminal — is about 4.5 miles by road.
Q: Can you walk from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty?
You can walk to the Battery Park ferry terminal (about 90 minutes on foot), but you cannot walk to Liberty Island itself. A ferry is required for the final 1.6-mile water crossing.
Q: What is the fastest way to get from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty?
The subway — specifically the 1 train to South Ferry — is the fastest practical option. It gets you to the ferry terminal in about 20 to 25 minutes, making the total journey (subway + ferry) roughly 45 to 60 minutes.
Q: What is the Times Square to Statue of Liberty taxi fare?
Expect to pay approximately $20 to $35 for a yellow cab or rideshare, not including tip. This covers Times Square to Battery Park only — the ferry ticket is a separate cost.
Q: How much do Statue of Liberty tickets cost?
Standard adult tickets start at approximately $24 and include round-trip ferry transportation. Crown access requires an additional reservation and must be booked months in advance.
Q: What subway goes from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty?
The 1 train (southbound to South Ferry) is the most direct. Take it from Times Square-42nd Street station all the way to South Ferry — the last stop on the line. The ferry terminal is a 5-minute walk from the station exit.
Q: How long does the ferry ride take from Battery Park to Liberty Island?
The ferry crossing takes approximately 15 minutes. Ferries run throughout the day, with the last departure from Battery Park typically around 3:30 PM.
Q: Is there a bus from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty?
Yes. The M20 or M5 bus routes travel south from Times Square to Lower Manhattan. Travel time is 45 to 65 minutes, depending on traffic, and the fare is $2.90 — the same as the subway.
Q: What is the best way to get from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty?
For most visitors, the 1 train to South Ferry combined with a pre-booked online ferry ticket is the best combination of speed, cost, and convenience.
Hi, I am Raghav Ahuja a curious explorer, travel enthusiast, and the voice behind Travel The World Today. I believe in discovering the beauty of every destination without breaking the bank. Through my journeys, I share tips, stories, and travel guides to help you explore the world on a budget. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family traveler, or just planning your next escape, I’m here to inspire and guide you every step of the way.
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