Steps to Visiting Ellis Island Immigration Museum

Step 1: Arrive at the Ellis Island. If you do not wish to stop at Ellis Island and are going to Liberty Island then do not exit the ferry at this point as the next stop is the Statue of Liberty National Monument.

Step 2: Exit ferry and proceed across the wooden pier and onto the park grounds. 

Step 3: At the Visitors Information Desk located in the Baggage Room of the Administration Room you can sign up for a Ranger Guided Tour of the park, pick up brochures about the park exhibits and sign up for the Free Film. You also have the option to explore the island at your own pace.

30mins-1hr:

Visit the Registry Room (Great Hall) on the second floor where millions of immigrants were processed from 1900-1920s.

Visit the exhibit “Through America’s Gate.” The exhibit chronicles step by step accounts of what immigrants encountered at Ellis Island.

Walk down the Stairs of Separation. Read the plaques about the stair separation. Then walk down to the Baggage Room and exit the Museum.

2-3 Hours:

Visit the above activities and any of the 3rd Floor Exhibits

3-5 hours:

Visit all activities and exhibits and take a Free Ranger guided tour and the Free Film.