Looking at the Statue of Liberty… Introducing how to get to Staten Island

New York consists of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Staten Island is large enough to be one whole borough, with trains and buses running through it. However, to get to Manhattan, you must either cross a bridge by car or bus, or take the ferry.

Not only Staten Island, but bridges connecting Manhattan to other areas are all toll bridges. And parking in Manhattan costs about the same as in Tokyo. That’s why many local residents prefer the free ferry.

2. From the subway “South Ferry” station to the Staten Island Ferry terminal

To get there from Manhattan, take the 【1】 subway to the terminal station “South Ferry.” You can also walk about 15 minutes from the 【E】 “World Trade Center” station.

Once you exit South Ferry station, right in front of you near Battery Park is the Whitehall Terminal, where the Staten Island Ferry departs. At first glance it looks like there might be a ticket gate, but no tickets are needed—it’s free to board.

3. Ride the Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island

Board the Staten Island Ferry, which departs free of charge from Manhattan, to head to Staten Island. The ride takes about 25 minutes. During weekday peak times, ferries run roughly every 15 minutes, otherwise every 30 minutes, and even late at night about once an hour. The Staten Island Ferry operates 24/7, year-round. When it’s time, the gates open and passengers stream into the boat.

Most of the seated passengers are locals, spending their time as they like. Tourists crowd the right-hand side windows in the direction of travel for views of the Statue of Liberty. If you want the best spot to see her, grab your place the moment the gates open. There’s also a snack stand on board. Enjoy a 25-minute cruise while feeling the New York breeze.

4. Getting there by car

To reach Staten Island by car, cross the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge from Brooklyn. The Staten Island side of this bridge is the starting point of the New York Marathon.

The toll is about $15, charged when crossing from Brooklyn. It’s a beautiful, photogenic bridge, so driving back toward Manhattan while enjoying the view is highly recommended for feeling the essence of New York.
*Information as of October 2017

◎ Summary

Since the ferry to Staten Island passes near the Statue of Liberty, many tourists use it to take photos of the statue and admire Manhattan’s skyline. However, most tourists turn right back to Manhattan after arriving at Staten Island.

That said, around March 2018, the New York Empire Outlets were scheduled to open. Staten Island is something to watch going forward!
*Information as of October 2017