The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, free with your ferry ticket to the islands, is housed inside the restored immigration buildings, where twelve million immigrants were processed. The Museum documents the rich story of American immigration through a carefully curated collection of photographs, heirlooms, interactive displays, and films.
Visitors touring the Great Hall, Baggage Room, and restored dormitories can feel the spirit of the hopeful arrivals eager to find opportunity, and the Museum’s interactive exhibits bring their voyages to life. Each display sheds light on the immigration process, and allows visitors to gain an appreciation for the nuances of the American melting pot.
MORE TO EXPLORE
Free Audio Tour
Included with your ferry ticket is a terrific audio tour; devices can be picked up on each Island. A family tour is available, and the content is offered in 12 languages, American Sign Language, and an Audio Descriptive version.
The American Immigrant Wall of Honor
Salute your family and heritage at this unique monument to immigration, and join the Museum in celebrating who we are, and where we came from. Add your family’s name to the Wall of Honor.
Visiting the Museum
Visiting the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and the Statue of Liberty is a special experience – find out how! The museums, the audio tour, and more are included with your ferry ticket – learn where to purchase ferry tickets, how to find the embarkation point, and other tips on our Visit page.
Our mission
Keeping the Gates Open
Help families and communities discover their connection to history. Join our work, and together we'll bring the next generation of voyages to Ellis Island.
