The Statue of Liberty is one of the most internationally-recognized monuments. Such is its popularity that more than 100 replicas have been made.
In today’s post, we discuss the accessibility of this New York icon. Likewise, we invite you to travel to two other accessible destinations where you can find this symbol of democracy and freedom that, even today, lights up the world.
New York
To visit the Statue of Liberty and nearby Ellis Island you must take a ferry. You may book tickets for the ferry service (round trip) on the Statue City Cruises website, as well as to visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and its museums.
Ferries are accessible to wheelchair users. You should also keep the following in mind:
- The crown of the statue is only accessible by stairs, so certain people with reduced mobility will be able to visit it. There are rest areas. However, wheelchair users are able to enter the museum and pedestal, where they can see the monument up close. Elevators, ramps, and restrooms are accessible.
- You may borrow wheelchairs on the islands, but there are a limited number, and they are loaned on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Emergency medical services are available on both islands. If you need help, ask any National Park Service employee.
If you have any questions or requests related to accessibility, contact the National Park Service or call (212) 363-3200. Due to the high volume of calls and emails, it is recommended to do so at least 21 days in advance.
Las Vegas
During your visit to Las Vegas, you also have the opportunity to get to know a part of New York. Las Vegas has a half-scale replica – measuring 45 meters – located in the New York-New York Hotel & Casino. In addition, other replicas of emblematic places, such as the Brooklyn Bridge or the Empire State Building, can be seen nearby.
Barcelona
We recommend another destination outside of the United States where to find another replica of the Statue of Liberty. Did you know Barcelona also had one? You probably have not noticed it during your visit to Barcelona, since it is inside an accessible library, in the Arús Public Library. This institution was created to educate the people of Barcelona and was founded in 1895 by Rossend Arús y Arderiu. Today, it is recognized for its specialization in the labor movement, anarchism, and freemasonry.
The smaller-scale replica of the New York monument is not engraved with the date of American independence, but the words “Anima Libertas” (freedom of the soul, in Latin). This alludes to the freedom only knowledge bestows upon us.
If you want to travel to any of the destinations we have mentioned in this post, Travegali offers the best accessible accommodations available. In addition, we provide an accessible city guide to these destinations with all the necessary information to enjoy a barrier-free stay:
Tell us, in what other cities have you come across the Statue of Liberty?
Sources: National Park Service, Statue citycruises, New York New York Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Arús Public Library
