Ellis Island, Hudson Valley Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car from any location in the Hudson Valley, first get on I-87 S (New York State Thruway) from your starting point. Follow I-87 S and then merge onto I-95 S toward New York City. After approximately 40 miles, take the exit for the George Washington Bridge and continue on the Cross Bronx Expressway. Follow signs for the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87 S) and then merge onto I-295 S. This will lead you toward the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge. Cross the bridge and follow signs for I-678 S toward the Throgs Neck Bridge. After crossing the bridge, continue on I-95 S and follow signs for the FDR Drive. Take the exit toward East 42nd Street and continue to the Battery Park area. You will have to park at one of the nearby garages; expect to pay around $30-$50 for daily parking. From Battery Park, proceed to the ferry terminal to catch the ferry to Ellis Island.

• Public Transportation

  For those using public transportation, begin by taking a Metro-North train from any station in the Hudson Valley to Grand Central Terminal in New York City. Upon arrival at Grand Central, transfer to the subway and take the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green station. From Bowling Green, it’s a short walk to Battery Park. At Battery Park, you can purchase tickets for the ferry to Ellis Island. The ferry cost is approximately $23 for adults and $12 for children. Make sure to check the ferry schedule in advance, as it may vary seasonally.