Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want to experience its most iconic symbols, a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island can be a wonderful choice. This private tour, offered by YES Tours NYC, promises a personalized experience, complete with expert insights, a professional photographer, and ample time to soak in the history and scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers great value and authentic storytelling—especially when you want to avoid the typical crowds and cookie-cutter group excursions.

What stands out most are the knowledgeable guides who often share personal connections to the sites, and the custom photoshoot that captures your visit in a truly special way. On the flip side, keep in mind that this tour lasts about three and a half hours, so it requires a moderate level of physical activity. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, in-depth experience rather than just ticking off a checklist. Overall, if you appreciate expert storytelling, flexible pacing, and a personal touch, this tour could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with a local guide who shares personal stories
• Includes a professional photoshoot during the visit
• Flexible pace allows for questions and exploration
• Focuses on authentic storytelling beyond just sightseeing
• Approximately 3.5 hours long, suitable for most fitness levels
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and great value

Introduction: Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

When visiting New York City, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are must-see landmarks, but navigating them can be overwhelming without insider guidance. This private tour offers a convenient way to explore these sites without the usual hustle of large crowds. What makes this experience particularly appealing is the personalized attention—your own guide with a genuine connection to Ellis Island, sharing stories that bring history alive. Plus, the custom photoshoot means you leave with professionally captured memories.

Two things we really like about this tour are the flexibility to go at your own pace and the depth of knowledge the guides bring, often sharing their own family ties to Ellis Island. However, one consideration might be the price—at $195 per person, it’s a bit more than a typical group ticket, but the private nature and extras can justify the cost. This tour suits travelers who value a more intimate experience, personalized storytelling, and the chance to learn from guides with authentic connections to the history they’re sharing.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Meeting Point at YES Tours NYC

Your journey begins at a central location near the SeaGlass Carousel at Water Street and State Street. From here, your private guide picks you up, setting the tone for a relaxed, engaging experience. Starting points matter—they’re close to public transportation and easy to find, making for a stress-free beginning.

Stop 2: Ellis Island

The first major stop is Ellis Island, the historic gateway for millions of immigrants arriving in the United States. The tour offers free admission to this island, which is significant because it means you’re skipping the hassle of purchasing tickets separately. Here, you’ll learn about the immigrant story, which the guide often personalizes by sharing their own family history. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s storytelling makes the immigrant experience feel like part of the larger American story.

Expect to spend time exploring the restored immigrant hospital and hearing about the complex process that thousands underwent to start a new life in America. Many guests appreciate that their guide is personable and knowledgeable—“His sharing his own family’s history through the island was enriching,” one reviewer commented. This personal touch makes the experience more meaningful than just walking through a museum.

Stop 3: Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty

Next, you’ll visit Liberty Island to see the most famous symbol of freedom. Unlike standard ferries or hurried tours, this private experience allows you to take your time appreciating the Statue of Liberty. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and learn about the history and symbolism of Lady Liberty from your guide.

Throughout the visit, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and take photos. The tour includes a professional photographer guide who conducts a custom photoshoot, capturing your visit in a way that standard selfies or quick snaps can’t match. Many reviews highlight how much guests appreciated these photos—”Our guide Rob was fabulous! He was knowledgeable and theatrical and absolutely engaging! We learned SO much and we were thoroughly entertained!”

The Experience: Deep Dive into What Makes This Tour Special

Personal Connection and Expert Guidance

One of the biggest draws is the guides’ personal stories. Several reviews mention guides like Matt and Rob, who go beyond facts to share their own family histories tied to Ellis Island. This human element makes the experience more authentic and memorable. As a guest noted, “His sharing his own family’s history through the island was enriching.” It’s clear that guides with personal connections add depth that generic tours lack.

Flexibility and Pace

Since this is a private tour, you control the pace. Want to spend extra time on the island, take more photos, or ask detailed questions? No problem. This flexibility is a significant advantage over scheduled group tours, which often rush through the highlights. The approximate duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

Photographs: A Lasting Memory

The professional photoshoot is a standout feature. During the tour, a professional photographer captures you at iconic spots, giving you high-quality images to remember your trip. Guests often mention how much they appreciated this—it’s a thoughtful addition that turns a sightseeing trip into a personalized keepsake.

Cost and Value

At $195 per person, the tour is a premium experience, especially considering it’s private and includes a photographer. When you compare this to the cost of separate tickets, guide fees, and photos, it offers solid value—particularly for travelers seeking an intimate, educational, and memorable visit. The reviews support this view, with guests saying it’s “well worth booking” and “made our visit so enjoyable and worthwhile.”

Accessibility and Practicalities

The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is key. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as there’s some walking involved, but no strenuous activity.

Authenticity, History, and the Human Element

What sets this tour apart is the storytelling. Guides don’t just recite dates and facts—they share personal insights, making history resonate. Several guests mention guides like Matt and Rob, who are described as animated, helpful, and enthusiastic. Their ability to answer questions and share their own family stories makes the experience more than just sightseeing; it becomes a personal journey.

This approach makes the immigrant story more tangible and relatable. The fact that the guide shares their own history adds an extra layer of authenticity, turning a potential tourist attraction into a meaningful experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who value personalized attention and authentic storytelling. It suits those interested in history, culture, or simply looking for a more relaxed and personal way to see these landmarks. It’s also perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting high-quality photos and a private experience. If you’re visiting with kids or prefer a paced, interactive tour, this setup works wonderfully.

On the other hand, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a budget-friendly group tour, this might feel a bit pricey. Still, for those who appreciate a more tailored experience, the price is justified by the quality and intimacy.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island offers a compelling package: expert guides with personal stories, a relaxed and flexible pace, and the added bonus of professional photos. It’s a fine way to truly connect with these iconic sites without the rush or crowds of larger tours. The glowing reviews from delighted guests underscore its quality, especially the guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling ability.

If you’re after an experience that combines history, personal connection, and a bit of luxury with professional photography, this tour will likely meet and even exceed your expectations. It’s best suited for travelers who seek more than just a photo op and want to walk away with stories—and pictures—that will last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time at each site, including time for questions and photos.

Are tickets included?
Yes, admission to both Ellis Island and Liberty Island is included, and both are free. You won’t need to worry about additional entrance fees.

What’s included in the price?
Your package includes a local guide, a professional guide, a professional photographer for the photoshoot, and the private tour itself.

Can I ask questions during the tour?
Absolutely. The guide’s role is to answer your questions and tailor the experience to your interests.

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather—just dress appropriately for rain, sun, or wind.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the SeaGlass Carousel Water St & State St in New York City, a location accessible by public transportation.

Are there any gratuities?
Gratuities are optional but recommended if you feel the guide enhanced your experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded package for those wanting an engaging, intimate, and authentic visit to two of New York City’s most treasured landmarks. With knowledgeable guides, personal stories, and professional photos, it stands out as a distinctive way to experience Liberty and Ellis Island. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just seeking a memorable day with your loved ones, this tour balances depth with comfort and leaves visitors with lasting memories.