Although a ticket is not required to enter Ellis Island Liberty Island, you will need to purchase an official ferry ticket to reach the island. These tickets are only available at cityexperiences.com/new-york/city-cruises/statue/. Access to the pedestal and crown of the statue, as well as hard hat tours of Ellis Island, are available at an additonal cost.
If you are more interested in capturing photos of the Statue of Liberty, we recommend taking a ride on the Staten Island Ferry (free) or booking a Circle Line Cruise (prices vary).