The iconic Ellis Island has become an integral part of American history. Known for its role as an important immigrant gateway to America in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Ellis Island has become an important symbol for America’s immigrant history and for the spirit of the American dream. Today, the island still stands and offers tourists a glimpse of its storied past – so, can you still visit Ellis Island in modern times? The answer is yes – and here’s what you need to know.
History and Significance of Ellis Island
Ellis Island is located in New York Harbor and was the gateway for twelve million immigrants to the United States between 1892–1954. It is remembered as the ultimate symbol of the American dream, a promise of freedom, opportunity, and a chance for a better life for many immigrants who arrived in the U.S.
Originally named Oyster Island by the Dutch in 1665, Ellis Island was named for Samuel Ellis, the owner of the island from 1785 to 1808. During the 19th century, Ellis Island served as an auxiliary military post until it was designated as the nation’s first federally–operated immigration station in 1892.
The National Park Service on Ellis Island
In 1965, the National Park Service assumed control of Ellis Island, and in 1984 Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty were combined to form the Statue of Liberty National Monument. This national monument was designated as a National Historical Park in September of 1965 and is now safeguarded and protected by the National Park Service.
Today, Ellis Island exists as a 2.74-acre national park that provides a window into the lives of generations of immigrants. Through the restoration of dilapidated buildings, notable artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs, Ellis Island memories are kept alive for visitors in the future.
What You Can See On Ellis Island
As a visitor to Ellis Island, you can explore the main building of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and learn more about the arrival of millions of immigrants from around the world. Inside the museum, there are a wide range of exhibits, films and interactive displays that detail the various aspects of life on Ellis Island.
In the main building, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum visitors can also learn about the inspections that occurred for those who were seeking entrance into the United States, see original artifacts that were used by immigrants, watch films that chronicle their experiences and journey, as well as examine interesting exhibits and photographs.
The Ellis Island museum’s point of interest also includes an interactive hospital complex which serves as a reminder of the medical challenges faced by immigrants and the medical treatments they received while staying on the Island.
Visiting Ellis Island
Visitors who wish to visit Ellis Island will need to plan ahead and can find the necessary information online. The National Park Service oversees the transportation to and from Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Tickets for the ferry are available for both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Visiting them at the same time is highly recommended and it is also possible to purchase a combination ticket which includes both attractions. The ferry ride from Battery to Ellis Island is included in the ticket cost.
There are several guided tours available, including an audio tour which is an audio guide of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty by Oscar-winning actors George and Ira Gershwin’s “A Quote from Washington Roebling” and a “Voices of the Statue of Liberty” tour which takes visitors through the island’s history, culture, and immigration stories.
The ferry to Ellis Island leaves Battery Park in New York City, and you can expect the ride to take approximately 20 minutes. The return trip is approximately 40 minutes.
Visitors should plan to arrive at least one hour in advance to allow enough time to wait in line, purchase tickets and board the ferry.
The hours of operation for Ellis Island vary according to the season, with summer hours being 9:30 a.m.—7:00 p.m. and winter hours being 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
Suggested Activities On Ellis Island
When visiting Ellis Island, there are a number of activities and places to explore.
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Self-guided tours – The Museum offers several self-guided tour options so you can explore the buildings, artifacts, and exhibits at your own pace.
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Audio Tours – Audio tours are available for a more detailed understanding of the history, culture and immigration stories at Ellis Island.
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Movie Theater – The Ellis Island Movie Theater shows documentary films about immigration and life in the early days.
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Explore the grounds – There are several outdoor areas in the national park that are open to visitors, like the SS Ellis Island Memorial Park and the Great Hall.
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Angel Island – Several tour companies offer excursions to explore the nearby Angel Island, which was the West Coast version of Ellis Island.
Ellis Island is an important part of American history, and still stands today as a reminder of the rich immigration history of our country. Today, visitors can still visit Ellis Island in order to learn more about the immigration process in the United States. The trip can be an educational and enlightening experience, with many opportunities to explore the grounds, learn about immigration stories, and take in the grandeur of the Statue of Liberty. Whether you are a history buff or just interested in learning a bit more about the immigration process, a visit to Ellis Island is sure to make for a memorable experience.
