Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a giant copper statue of a woman holding a torch, standing on her own island in New York Harbor. She was a gift from France more than a hundred years ago.
She is famous around the world as a symbol of freedom and welcome, greeting people who arrive in America. You can take a ferry boat to see her up close and even climb up inside to her crown.
Ferry Ride
To reach the statue you ride a ferry boat across the water, with cool breezes and big views of the city skyline. The boat trip is half the fun of the visit.
Her Green Color
The statue was once shiny brown like a penny, but the copper skin turned mint green over time from the sea air. This natural coating actually protects the metal underneath.
History
France gave the statue to the United States in 1886 as a symbol of friendship and freedom. She stands next to Ellis Island, where millions of newcomers first arrived to start new lives.