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Climb to Liberty's Crown

Statue Of Liberty National Monument

Visiting the crown of the Statue of Liberty is one of the most rewarding experiences of any trip to New York City. Visitors get to enjoy views from the small platform in the statue’s head which is roughly 20 stories high.

Expect to see panoramic views at the various pedestal observation levels, limited views of Brooklyn from the crown level, and Alexandre Gustave Eiffel's framework that supports the Statue of Liberty. Other highlights include seeing the tablet from above, an up-close view of the torch, and being able to feel the thickness of the copper statue.  

Anyone visiting the crown must be able to walk up at least 162 steps on a confined spiral staircase.

There is not an minimum age for the crown access but instead a minimum height requirement. Children must be at least 42 inches (106 centimeteres) tall to visit the crown. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure their child meets this requirement. Smaller children may ascend as high as the Pedestal. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

There is a .30 cent fee for crown tickets in addition to the fee for the ferry.

The crown is located 162 steps above the top of the pedestal and 377 steps above the ground.

Due to its extreme popularity, access to the crown is by advanced reservation only. Statue Cruises is the official source for crown reservations as well as the company that provides ferry transportation to the island. All reservations  must be made online or by telephone.

Crown reservations are not available at the ticket offices or on Liberty Island.

There is a maximum of four (4) crown reservations allowed per order.

Only one reservation per person is allowed during any six (6) month period.

The names of those in your party must be provided at the time of purchase. Tickets are non-transferable.

Prior to entering the Statue of Liberty, each ticket holder will be required to show photo ID (except minors without ID) matching the name printed on the ticket.

There are restrictions on what can be carried up to the crown.

The crown is open every day except for the fourth Thursday of November (Thanksgiving) and December 25th. If you are planning a visit in the busy summer months or during the holiday season, reservations should be made farther in advance to ensure access.

The crown is open daily, hours depend on the time of year and boat schedule. Access to the crown varies from the hours the island is open. Visitors should check in the Information Center to find out the last entry times for the day.

The climb is strenuous and not without risk. The National Park Service recommends that crown visitors have no significant physical or mental conditions which would impair their ability to complete the climb, such as (but not limited to): Heart conditions Respiratory conditions Mobility impairment Claustrophobia (fear of confined spaces) Acrophobia (fear of heights) Vertigo (dizziness) There is no elevator access from the top of the pedestal to the crown platform (from the Statue's feet to the Statue's head).

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Last updated: March 1, 2024

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New York Travellers

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▷ Statue of liberty crown access : everything you need to know

new york city crown tour

It is an emblematic monument of New York City that we will explore today! With more than 4 million visitors per year, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see for all those who visit the Big Apple. Located in Liberty island, at the south of Manhattan, the statue is accessible by boat, leaving from Castle Clinton (in Battery Park).

But what could be more spectacular than visiting Liberty Island? Going inside the statue and going up to the crown! If most of the tourists are satisfied with a walk on the island, you should know that it is also possible to enter it. So today, I’m going to explain you everything about this extraordinary experience .

Where to find tickets? How to book? Tips for visit… You’ll know everything about this unique activity 🙂

Statue of Liberty Crown : tickets, price, access

Is going inside the statue worth it? Without any suspense, I say a big YES! I’ve been waiting to go to the top of the statue for a long time and this experience will truly be one of the most memorable of all my trips to New York! And while all visits to the statue leave great memories, don’t miss the opportunity to go to the top if you have the chance.

new york city crown tour

Today, there are 3 types of tickets for the Statue of Liberty:

  • “General Admission Ticket”: which allows access to Liberty Island and to walk around the statue (24$).
  • “Pedestal Reserve Ticket”: which allows access to Liberty Island, to walk around the statue and also to access the pedestal of the statue ($24.30).
  • “Crown Reserve Ticket”: which allows access to Liberty Island, to walk around the statue and also to access the pedestal and the crown ($24.30).

But what is particularly attractive is that the pedestal + crown ticket costs almost the same price as the General Admission ticket. For only a few cents more, you can have the chance to go to the top of the statue and admire the whole New York City skyline from this unusual and breathtaking viewpoint. With such an affordable price, why miss the opportunity?

⚠️ Good to know: All these tickets also include the Ellis Island site and Museum . The boat transfer between Manhattan / Liberty Island and Ellis Island completes the package.

⚠️ Good to know #2:  Tickets included in passes (New York City Pass, Explorer Pass, New York Pass, Sightseeing Pass… ) do not allow access to the crown and the pedestal. The ticket included in these passes is always the “General Admission Ticket” which allows access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

Statue of liberty crown visit : where to book ?

new york city crown tour

⚠️ CAUTION: TO ACCESS THE CROWN, IT IS IMPERATIVE TO RESERVE TICKETS ONLINE IN ADVANCE ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE . THE CROWN RESERVE TICKETS ARE NOT SOLD ON SITE ⚠️

Since access to the crown is extremely limited (due to the limited space inside the statue), it is essential to book tickets well in advance. Very few tickets are put on sale, so they are sold out very quickly! Here are the general reservation deadlines to be respected:

➜ During the low season (between November and March), one month delay may be sufficient. But 2 or 3 months in advance is even more recommended to be sure to have all the dates available!

➜ During the high season (between April and October), it is necessary to book the entrance tickets at least 3 months in advance.

To give you an idea, at the time of writing this article (March 20), the first available tickets to go up to the crown are available on July 25. If your visit is scheduled for the critical July/August period, you can start looking at reservations about 5-6 months before the deadline. You will then be asked to select a specific day and time to visit.

Some visit tips to know before booking for the crown

➜ It is necessary to provide the exact names of visitors at the time of online reservation. Once the reservation is made, names cannot be changed or a ticket transferred to another person.

➜ The reservation time is the time you pass through the security check , just before boarding the ferry.

➜ Children under 1.20m (4 feet) are not allowed to go up into the crown.

➜ Children under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

➜ Only 4 tickets can be reserved per booking. A buyer can only make a reservation once every 6 months.

new york city crown tour

➜ The ticket buyer must be present during the visit and be able to present the credit card used to purchase the tickets.

➜ All visitors listed on the reservation must present an ID for the visit.

➜ Going up to the crown requires a good physical condition: access is via a tight staircase (in spiral) made of 162 steps. From spring, the temperature can be high into the statue, which is directly exposed to the sun’s rays on sunny days. I personally advise people suffering from claustrophobia not to go to the top of the statue.

➜ Lockers are provided on Liberty Island for the storage of backpacks, which are not allowed inside the statue.

Statue of liberty crown visit: how it goes?

Once the online reservation is made, a confirmation is sent by email. Please note that this booking confirmation is not an electronic ticket. On the day of your visit, you must go to the ticket office located at Castle Clinton (in Battery Park). At the entrance of Castle Clinton, a notice board indicates the kiosks corresponding to the online reservations. Be careful not to get in the wrong line, it is very crowded and I saw many people having to queue twice because they were not at the right desk .

You just have to show the booking confirmation received by e-mail and the ID of all the visitors. You can then access the ferry and go through the security checks. Once on Liberty Island, it is necessary to go to the locker because backpacks are not allowed inside the statue. Passed all these steps, we can finally access to the statue!

new york city crown tour

First step: the pedestal

The crown ticket first gives access to the pedestal. We do not necessarily know it, but the pedestal is already a very beautiful observatory that allows to enjoy the skyline and unique views of Lady Liberty. It is easily accessible by elevator. From here, you can start to take beautiful pictures and enjoy the view of New York City.

Second step: the crown

The second part of the ascent is done by stairs: 162 steps to climb in the small space of the statue. In this early afternoon of May, the weather is gorgeous and it is not cold inside the statue! While climbing the stairs, one can observe all the details of the statue that cannot be seen from the outside: the structure, the assembly and also the contours of the body and the face .

We are very lucky because there are no other visitors with us when we arrive at the crown. There are just the two rangers who watch the platform. I keep an incredible memory of this moment, looking at New York City from the Statue of Liberty crown.

The rangers kindly ask us if we want to be photographed, which we accept. And there are also many other beautiful pictures to be taken! Incredible shots of the torch or the book of the statue, and of course the amazing skyline view. In short, it was a fantastic moment that will remain in our memories for a very long time.

new york city crown tour

That’s it! The Statue of Liberty’s crown now has no secrets for you. If you still have questions about how to plan your visit to the crown, feel free to ask them in the comments 🙂

I’m a french travel blogger, crazy about New York City! Since I discovered NYC in 2014, each trip is an opportunity to learn more about the secrets of this fantastic city. I wish you a pleasant visit on my blog, with I hope, a lot of beautiful discoveries!

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Statue of Liberty Visitors Guide

Helpful information for planning your visit to see Lady Liberty

TripSavvy / Kelsea Watkins 

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the French people to the people of the United States as a symbol of the international friendship forged during the American Revolution. The Statue was designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and the pedestal by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel.

After many delays (mostly due to financial challenges) the Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886; just ten years late for the Centennial celebration for which it was intended. The Statue of Liberty has since become a symbol of freedom and democracy.

Facts and History

When shipped from France to New York, the Statue arrived in 350 pieces.

Once delivered, it took four months to put her together and was completed on October 28, 1886.

For the first time since Sept. 11, 2001, the observation deck of the Statue of Liberty was reopened on Aug. 3, 2004. On July 4, 2009, they reopened the crown to visitors willing (and able) to hike the 354 steps in each direction. Interior access to the Statue of Liberty was suspended on October 29, 2011, for upgrades that were expected to take about a year, but due to damage to Liberty Island sustained during Hurricane Sandy, the re-opening was delayed. Today, visitors who plan in advance can get tickets to climb up to the crown .

The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in the New York Harbor. To get to there, you'll need to take a ferry from Battery Park City or New Jersey .

Closest Subways to the Statue of Liberty: 4/5 to Bowling Green; N/R to Whitehall Street; 1 to South Ferry (you must be in the first 5 cars of the train to exit at South Ferry). Follow the signs to Castle Clinton to buy tickets for the ferry to the Statue of Liberty.

What to Expect When You Visit

First, you'll need to buy your ticket. It's highly recommended that you buy it in advance.

Then, you'll need to clear security before boarding the ferry to Liberty Island. Security is very serious for visitors to the Statue of Liberty — everyone will clear security (including x-ray inspections of baggage and walk through metal detectors) before boarding the ferry.

When departing from Battery Park ( Manhattan ) the ferry first stops at Liberty Island. All passengers must disembark on Liberty Island, even if they want to skip visiting Liberty Island and continue directly on to Ellis Island. After traveling from Liberty Island to Ellis Island, the ferry once again returns to Battery Park . For visitors traveling from New Jersey, the ferry route runs in reverse, visiting Ellis Island first followed by Liberty Island.

The ferry rides between each stop are about 10 minutes, but allow extra time for boarding and disembarking.

Visitors who enter the Statue for either pedestal or crown access will clear security again.

Ticket Information

Admission to Liberty State Park is free, but you must buy a ferry ticket to get there. You can buy your tickets for the ferry online , by phone or in person at either departure location.

Access to the pedestal and Statue of Liberty Museum requires a special ticket but doesn't cost extra. Access to climb the stairs to the crown costs extra and includes access to both the pedestal and museum.

Adults can add on a tour of the Ellis Hospital for an additional cost. Children are not permitted.

Seeing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in One Day

The ferry that takes you to Liberty Island also stops at Ellis Island. Seeing both in a single day is possible, but it will take most of the day. Make sure you arrive early to board the ferry and plan to spend 5-6 hours to give yourself adequate time for travel and exploring both islands.

Visiting With Kids

There is no charge for children under 4-years-old to take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Minors 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult 25 or older when traveling to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Strollers are not permitted inside the Statue of Liberty (for pedestal, museum, and crown access), but they are allowed on the ferry and around Liberty Island. There is plenty of room for running around and relaxing on Liberty Island.

Children must be at least 4-feet-tall and 4-years-old to climb to the crown.

Other Ways to See the Statue of Liberty

If you just want to see the Statue of Liberty, but don't necessarily care about climbing into the crown or walking around Liberty Island, there are a number of great places you can go and things you can do and see the Statue of Liberty.

  • Battery Park or the Brooklyn Promenade — if you just want to see the Statue of Liberty from a distance, these are good spots
  • New York City Sightseeing Cruises  — nearly every sightseeing cruise offers participants a view of the Statue of Liberty, many times with a good photo opportunity as well
  • Staten Island Ferry  — take this free ferry to Staten Island for a great view of the New York Harbor and a chance to see the Statue of Liberty from a distance
  • Red Hook Fairway — the outdoor cafe at this Brooklyn supermarket offers a view of the Statue of Liberty

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Unravelling the Magnificence of the Statue of Liberty's Crown

The Statue of Liberty’s Crown is one of the world's most recognizable symbols. Stay on this page as we delve into its rich history, admire its remarkable architecture, learn about its profound significance, and uncover everything you need to know for a memorable visit to this iconic site.

About Lady Liberty’s Crown

Statue of Liberty Crown

The Statue of Liberty's Crown stands tall as a beacon of freedom and hope, captivating visitors from across the globe with its majestic allure. Perched atop Lady Liberty's head, this iconic crown is a testament to the enduring spirit of liberty and enlightenment. As you ascend the Crown, you'll be immersed in a unique experience, surrounded by the architectural marvels and historical significance that define this landmark.

The Crown's design showcases intricate details and captivating symbolism, with its seven rays representing the seven continents, and the spikes symbolizing the diadem of the sun god. From the Crown's elevated position, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding New York City skyline, the shimmering waters of the Hudson River, and the distant horizon.

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What to see inside the crown.

Statue of Liberty Crown

Once you’re inside the Crown, you'll be greeted by the intricate architectural features of the structure. The interior space offers a close-up view of the statue's copper framework, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship that went into its construction. You can also admire the captivating symbolism of the seven rays and spikes that adorn the crown.

One of the most memorable aspects of your visit to the Crown will be the unparalleled panoramic view it offers. As you step onto the observation deck, you'll be greeted by sweeping vistas of the New York City skyline, including iconic landmarks such as the towering skyscrapers, the majestic Brooklyn Bridge, and the bustling waters of the Hudson River. The sight is truly awe-inspiring, providing a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding beauty.

From the Crown, you'll also be able to gaze upon the vast expanse of the harbor, witnessing the comings and goings of ships and ferries, and taking in the distant horizon where land meets the sea.

History & Significance

The idea for the Statue of Liberty was conceived by Édouard de Laboulaye, a French jurist and political thinker, as a gift to the United States to commemorate its centennial of independence and to celebrate the enduring friendship between France and America. The renowned sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi was commissioned to design the statue, while Gustave Eiffel, known for his work on the Eiffel Tower, was responsible for the statue's internal framework.

The construction of the statue took place in France, and the individual pieces were shipped to the United States. The Statue of Liberty, with its iconic crown, was unveiled on October 28, 1886, on Liberty Island in New York Harbor.

Statue of Liberty Crown

The spikes on the Statue of Liberty’s Crown symbolize the diadem, or crown, of the sun god. These spikes were originally designed to support and stabilize the statue's original torch.

The number of spikes and their placement is significant. The Crown features seven rays or spikes, each representing one of the seven continents of the world. This symbolism emphasizes the universal message of freedom that the Statue of Liberty embodies, extending its reach to people across all continents. The spikes on the Crown serve as a powerful representation of the interconnectedness and global unity of humankind, celebrating the ideals of freedom, democracy, and equality that the statue stands for.

Construction and Architecture of the Crown

The construction and architecture of the Statue of Liberty's Crown are a testament to the artistry, engineering ingenuity, and meticulous craftsmanship of its creators. Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and constructed by Gustave Eiffel, the crown is a remarkable piece of architectural beauty.

The Crown sits atop Lady Liberty's head, adding to the statue's commanding presence. It features a circular arrangement of spikes, resembling a regal crown or diadem. These spikes were originally designed to support and stabilize the statue's original torch, which was later replaced during restoration. The seven rays extending from the crown are a symbolic representation of the seven continents, signifying the statue's global significance.

Copper was the primary material used in the construction of the Crown, as well as the rest of the statue. Over time, the copper has developed its characteristic green patina, adding to the visual appeal of the crown. The craftsmanship involved in shaping and forming the copper sheets, as well as the attention to detail in creating the spikes and rays, showcase the skill and dedication of the artisans involved in the statue's creation.

The Crown's architectural features not only contribute to the overall aesthetic of the statue but also serve as a powerful symbol. The combination of spikes, rays, and copper material represents a powerful representation of freedom, enlightenment, and the global unity of humankind. 

Visiting the Crown

Statue of Liberty Crown

A visit to the Statue of Liberty Crown is an unforgettable journey into history and an opportunity to witness firsthand the symbol of liberty that has welcomed generations of dreamers and seekers of a better future. Inside the Crown, you'll find a collection of historic artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of its creation and the enduring ideals it represents. As you stand in the footsteps of countless visitors before you, you'll be captivated by the palpable sense of freedom and inspiration that emanates from this magnificent structure.

Tickets to enter the Crown must be purchased in advance and separately. Admission to this area is not included in the regular Statue of Liberty tickets. Click here to book tickets to the Crown.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Statue of Liberty’s Crown

To reach the Crown, you can either climb to the top of the pedestal or take an elevator and then climb an additional 162 steps to get to the Crown.

Tickets to visit the Crown cost around $21.50 for adults and $12 for children.

The climb from the lobby to the Crown can take approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on individual fitness levels and the number of visitors.

Yes, there are age restrictions for visiting the Crown. Children must be at least 4 feet tall and capable of climbing the steps unassisted to access the Crown.

Prohibited items include large bags, food, drinks, tripods, and selfie sticks.

The Crown has a limited capacity and only a certain number of visitors are allowed at a time. The exact number of people allowed inside the Crown may vary, but it is generally around 10-15 individuals.

Yes, photography is allowed inside the crown. However, tripods and selfie sticks are not permitted.

Yes, you can get a close view of Lady Liberty’s Torch from the windows inside the Crown. You can also enjoy magnificent aerial views of New York Harbor and City.

No, there are no restroom facilities inside the Crown. Restrooms are available at the Pedestal and at the Crown Café.

The 7 spikes of Lady Liberty's Crown represent the 7 continents of the world. It is a global symbol of unity and freedom.

Statue of Liberty Crown

About the Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty Crown

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Crown tour - Statue of Liberty

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You have to book this many months in advance so you take a chance with the weather and your schedule but it is so worth it and only a few dollars more than the basic ticket. Firstly you get priority line at ferry departure which, while an advantage is not that significant. You still have to pass security and queue with everyone to get on the ferry. At Liberty island you get your own line and straight through security. You can then get the elevator to the pedestal level or walk up the 200 something steps. You then enter the statue itself for the 167 steps to the crown. The stairs are very narrow (18 inches I believe) and being a spiral staircase the left side step is non existent and the right side is perhaps 12 inches. You get 4 or so places you can rest or allow faster people through. According to the ranger at the crown, if you go later in the afternoon the crowd is less (but obviously temperatures inside would be greater). I am 60 and very unfit but managed it without too much distress. No claustrophobia. Going down is just as tricky with the ranger recommending going backwards which seemed to work well. For just a few dollars more than the ferry trip this is a very worthwhile as only a few hundred people a day get to do it. Reinforcing what others have said, the organisation is quite sad and the time taken to get from the Battery park ticket office to the statue crown climb is at least 90 minutes meaning you really have to go much earlier than your timed ticket says. That small problem aside, hIghly recommended.

If you intend to visit the Statue of Liberty (a ferry ride from Battery Park) and go up to the Crown, plan well ahead (we booked about five months before) and reserve your place. Crown Tickets will not be available at Battery Park. Be prepared to go up and down the 354 steps on foot as no elevators are available. Elevators go up to the Pedestal only. Once you're at the Crown you'll view marvelous views, have an extraordinary experience you'll never forget. You'll be amazed at the oversized statue. Visit the exhibition inside and be mesmerized by the facts and exhibits on the statue. I recommend reservation well before arrival for the Pedestal and the Crown as otherwise you will be disappointed. A MUST SEE super structure NOT to be missed.

If there is a symbol around the world about US, it must be the statue of liberty! First time I only saw it from the water, second time we to the island. We did not go into the statue as we had no reservation, but we walked around it and was amazing seeing it so close and seeing the NY skyline as well.

We didn't actually go on Liberty Island but opted to spend our time on Ellis Island. We did get awesome views of Lady Liberty from the boat. WARNING: there are scammers in Battery Park who will try to tell you tickets are sold out and try to get you on a shuttle. Buy your tickets directly from Castle Clinton. It's awesome to see this iconic statue, just be smart about it.

We booked a guided tour of the statue and Ellis Island (from Trip Adviser reviews). Although this cost quite a lot more than the ferry ticket, it was well worth it.

And so is the trip. Much more pleasant during the summertime than during winter months. The lines to get to it were long but very well organized. The only thing we regret is not having known that you needed to reserve entrance to the base of the statue, or to go up. Still, a worth while activity.

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Experience the icon in person., ellis island, make the voyage, walk in the footsteps of history., help keep liberty alive..

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AN ICON. A SYMBOL. A PROMISE.

Together we preserve her legacy..

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The Story of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty started as a romantic idea and became the most monumental gift in American history. Today, it stands as a singular symbol of hope and spirit.

Overview + History

Be Inspired

The statue of liberty museum.

Enrich your time on Liberty Island with a visit to this impeccably curated museum. Explore the Statue’s history, view her original torch, and discover the passion that fueled her creation.

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The Role of the Foundation

The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation honors the American experience through its preservation and support of these two great monuments. From restoring the Statue to creating a world-class museum and much more, the Foundation is committed to fulfilling projects that will keep Lady Liberty standing tall for current and future generations.

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The Foundation preserves the legacies of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island with the help of passionate supporters from around the world. Learn how you can play a role in the future of these monuments and help keep the torch burning bright.

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Have Questions?

To get to Liberty and Ellis Islands, visitors must take a ferry from either Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Statue City Cruises operates the ferry service. For more information, see our Visit Liberty & Ellis Island page .

Visitors should note that Statue City Cruises is the only authorized concessionaire permitted to sell tickets and provide ferry access to Liberty and Ellis Islands. As such, visitors should avoid street vendors peddling tickets in and around Battery Park. Tickets sold by street vendors will not provide access to the grounds on Liberty Island and Ellis Island or to the museums on each island – the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

The torch is closed to the public. Access to the pedestal and crown requires special tickets and should be purchased in advance from Statue City Cruises.  For more information, see our Visit Liberty & Ellis Island page .

The Statue of Liberty Museum and Liberty Island grounds remain fully accessible to all guests. The Museum tells the history and influence of Lady Liberty, including a simulated climb to  her crown. A visit to the Liberty Vista, atop the Museum, offers a unique look at the Statue and sweeping views of New York Harbor.  

For updates on visiting the Statue’s Crown, please review  the National Park Service website .  

Visitors to Liberty Island can tour the grounds and, with appropriate advanced tickets, visit the Statue’s pedestal and crown. Visitors can also explore the Statue of Liberty Museum. Adjacent to the Statue, the museum tells the history of Lady Liberty and features a number of unique artifacts, including the statue’s original torch.

It is not. The Statue is located on Liberty Island, a short ferry ride from America’s most famous immigration center, Ellis Island. Ellis Island is now home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

Park Rangers provided brief tours at each museum. For information, please visit the National Park Service  website .  

Audio tours are available upon arrival to Liberty Island for no additional cost. Content is available in 12 languages: Arabic, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish. A family-friendly tour is also available, as are an American Sign Language (ASL) version and an Audio Descriptive (AD) version.  

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This $24.4 Million Penthouse Caps a Landmark Building in New York City

The three-story aerie, known as the crown penthouse, has five bedrooms, three terraces and a private elevator., demetrius simms, demetrius simms's most recent stories, ancient oaks surround this $6.5 million northern california wine country retreat.

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Crown Penthouse 108 Leonard Street New York

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Dubbed the Crown Penthouse , the stylish, light-filled home features custom amenities next to backdrops of the Empire State Building, City Hall, and the Municipal Building. Five bedrooms and baths, plus a couple of powder rooms, are spread out across its 6,252 square feet of contemporary living space. Combined outdoor spaces add another 2,173 square feet. Jane Powers, Matthew McKay, Elena Sarkissian, Christopher Salierno, and Raphael De Niro of Douglas Elliman hold the listing.

Crown Penthouse 108 Leonard Street New York family room

Architect Griffith Thomas designed the building, which was completed in 1870, and two decades later, the esteemed firm McKim, Mead & White expanded the structure, which features an Italian Renaissance Revival-style façade. Because the building stretches an entire city block between Broadway and Lafayette Street, there are three attended lobbies with interiors by Jeffrey Beers International, and their captivating touches like soaring 15-foot ceilings, arched windows, and oak floors spill over into the abode.

Crown Penthouse 108 Leonard Street New York primary bedroom

A family/media room with a wet bar and a wall of windows that slide open to a large terrace is located on the second floor, along with three en suite bedrooms, each with access to one of the two terraces on this floor. The primary suite takes over the entire 16th floor with views of the skyline and East River. A marble fireplace, a separate sitting room or study, a midnight kitchen, and the two walk-in closets are standout features. There are dual bathrooms accented with Calcatta Mandria marble floors; one has a soaking tub that faces the Empire State Building, and both have walls of glass and access to the largest of the penthouse’s three terraces. 

Other amenities residents at 108 Leonard have access to include a drive-in motor reception court with private valet and more than 20,000 square feet of wellness-driven amenities such as a 75-foot lap pool and fitness center. Additional options include a wine cellar and private dining room, as well as rooftop gardens with cabana lounges. 

Click here for more images of the Crown Penthouse at 108 Leonard Street.

Crown Penthouse 108 Leonard Street New York

Demetrius Simms is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. Following a brief stint in public relations, their work has now appeared in lifestyle and culture publications such as Men's Health, Complex…

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Trump draws large crowd at rally in the Bronx

A rally for former President Donald Trump drew a large crowd at Crotona Park in the Bronx Thursday night.

NY1 reporters on scene said the turnout was in “in the thousands.”

What You Need To Know

A rally for former president donald trump drew a large crowd at crotona park in the bronx thursday night ny1 reporters on scene said the turnout was in “in the thousands” trump in 2020 won only 16% of the vote in the borough, which is considered a democratic stronghold some politicians had previously voiced opposition to trump’s stop in the bronx, calling it a political stunt.

Trump in 2020 won only 16% of the vote in the borough, which is considered a Democratic stronghold. Nevertheless, Trump — in the city for his criminal hush money trial in Manhattan — used a recess in the trial to campaign for support in his presidential bid.

In his speech, Trump criticized the current state of the city.

“Sadly, this is now a city in decline. Throughout my life, I’ve seen New York through good times and bad, through boom times and crime waves, through market crashes and terrorist attacks. But I’ve never seen it quite like this,” Trump said.

The former president said he could “make New York City great again,” while touting his prior accomplishments in the city — such as helping build Wollman Rink in Central Park and the Javits Center — as a real estate developer.

“Don’t worry, it gets positive,” Trump said. “Remember, we’re all winners. We’re going to win so big we’re going to make it [New York City] bigger and better than ever before.”

A group of counter-protestors, including elected officials and members of labor unions, rallied against what they said was Trump’s divisive rhetoric at the event Thursday.

"He [Trump] is winning people over through predjudice and fear, which is a really scary thing," David Bolger, a counter-protester, said.

Some politicians had previously voiced opposition to Trump’s stop in the Bronx, calling it a political stunt. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said it was a “fundraising tactic” in an interview on “Mornings on 1” Thursday.

Bronx Congressman Ritchie Torres said, “The only place in the Bronx where Donald Trump has any place being is Bronx Criminal Court.”

In an interview on CNN Thursday, Gov. Kathy Hochul said New York will never support Donald Trump for president.

“We know him better than anyone, and that means we understand what he’s all about,” Hochul said. “If he wants to spend his time doing these made-up, fake rallies pretending there’s support here, be my guest.”

Trump is under a gag order during his hush money trial, which resumes on Tuesday. Though he previously violated the order multiple times, Trump kept mostly quiet about his feelings on the proceedings during the Bronx rally.

Fleet Week NYC 2024: See massive warships sailing around New York to honor service members

new york city crown tour

Fleet Week is setting sail in New York City from May 21 to May 27 to honor those who serve and protect the United States seas.

Nearly 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen will be honored at the Hudson River during Fleet Week, which began in 1988.

"Fleet Week New York, now in its 36th year, is a time-honored tradition for the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast team to visit New York City over the Memorial Day weekend,” Director of Public Affairs and Fleet Week New York, Beth Baker, said in a statement to USA TODAY.

“The week-long event provides us an opportunity for the citizens of New York City and the surrounding area to meet their service members and see firsthand the latest capabilities of today's maritime services," Baker said in the statement.

At the Hudson River on Wednesday morning, crew members were getting ready to kickoff the annual event.

Here are some of the things you should know about New York’s Fleet Week:

Fleet Week schedule

Fleet Week will run from May 22 until May 28. See below for information about tours.

How can I watch the celebration in New York?

USA TODAY provided a livestream of Fleet Week in New York City. Watch a replay above.

Photos and videos show the kickoff to Fleet Week 2024

Fleet week tours.

People can also participate in a public tour of ships including the U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), a Baden-Württemberg-class frigate and a German Berlin-class replenishment ship. You'll just need to have a valid ID.

A full schedule of the tours can be found on the Navy Region Mid-Atlantic's website .

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X (Twitter) .

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Dave chappelle announces 2 atlantic city shows. get tickets today.

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Dave Chappelle flashes a grin while performing.

The always unpredictable Dave Chappelle is at it again.

Following a nationwide 2023 tour celebrating his 50th birthday, the “Chappelle’s Show” star is returning to the stage for a pair of gigs at Atlantic City, NJ’s Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino on Friday, June 28.

According to the venue, show one starts at 7 p.m. Later that evening, Chappelle will return to the stage for an encore 10 p.m. set .

This stand-up doubleheader comes on the heels of the comic’s controversial 2023 Netflix special “The Dreamer” where he took it upon himself to tackle sensitive subjects including transgenderism and disabled people.

And while we don’t know what the politically incorrect will take to the stage in Atlantic City, the only way to find out is live.

At the time of publication, the lowest price we could find on tickets was $188 before fees on Vivid Seats.

For more information on Chappelle’s short Atlantic City stint, we’ve got everything you need to know and more below.

All prices listed above are subject to fluctuation.

Dave Chappelle Atlantic City tickets

A complete breakdown of all the best prices on tickets at the Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino shows can be found here:

(Note: The New York Post confirmed all above prices at the publication time. All prices are in US dollars, subject to fluctuation and include additional fees at checkout .)

Vivid Seats is a verified secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand. 

They offer a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and your tickets will be delivered prior to the event.

Dave Chappelle comedy specials

Over the course of his career, Chappelle has released 13 stand-up specials.

Here’s how you can find all of them:

Killin’ Them Softly (2000) is streaming on HBO For What It’s Worth (2004) can be purchased on Amazon The Age of Spin (2017) is streaming on Netflix Deep in the Heart of Texas (2017) is streaming on Netflix Equanimity (2017) is streaming on Netflix The Bird Revelation (2017) is streaming on Netflix Sticks & Stones (2019) is streaming on Netflix 8:46 (2020) is streaming on YouTube Unforgiven (2020) is streaming on YouTube Redemption Song (2021) is streaming on YouTube The Closer (2021) is streaming on Netflix What’s in a Name? (2022) is streaming on Netflix The Dreamer (2023) is streaming on Netflix

You can also see Chappelle win the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. here .

Dave Chappelle controversy

Over the past few years, Chappelle made waves for his insensitive material about the transgender community in his Netflix specials “Sticks and Stones” and “The Closer.”

Rather than apologize for his remarks, he doubled down and defended his point of view.

Many big names have spoken out about his baseless attacks.

“Dave Chappelle making jokes about trans people directly leads to violence, whether it’s verbal or otherwise, against trans people,” said US soccer star Megan Rapinoe in an interview with  Time Magazine .

Fellow comic Wanda Sykes shared with  Variety  that Chappelle’s material was “so hurtful and damaging to the trans community.”

That didn’t stop Chappelle from going after other marginalized groups.

In November 2022, Chappelle was asked to host NBC’s “Saturday Night Live.” On the program, he made several anti-Semitic jokes in his 20-minute monologue.

At the time of publication, Chappelle has not issued a sincere apology to either community. His inflammatory material also caused Netflix employees to walk out in protest.

“We value our trans colleagues and allies, and understand the deep hurt that’s been caused,” a Netflix spokesperson said at the time. “We respect the decision of any employee who chooses to walk out, and recognize we have much more work to do both within Netflix and in our content.”

Comedians on tour in 2024

Many of comedy’s heaviest hitters are bringing the funny to venues big and small all over the U.S. this year.

Here are just five of our favorites you absolutely won’t want to miss live.

•  Katt Williams

•  Martin Lawrence

•  Marlon Wayans

•  D.L. Hughley

•  Wanda Sykes

Who else is slinging punchlines these next few months? Take a look at our list of the 107 biggest comedians on tour in 2024 to find out.

Why you should trust ‘Post Wanted’ by the New York Post

This article was written by Matt Levy , New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements from your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed Bruce Springsteen and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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The Black Keys Quietly Cancel International Players Tour 2024

The Black Keys have quietly canceled their upcoming International Players Tour, which was scheduled to bring them to arenas throughout North America.

The tour, announced in early April, was scheduled to kick off in September, with dates set for New York City’s Madison Square Garden and Los Angeles’ Kia Forum. The 31-date trek would have brought them across North America, with stops planned in Seattle, Boston and Milwaukee before concluding at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena on Nov. 12. All dates have been marked as canceled on Ticketmaster’s website.

On the Black Keys’ website, tour dates have been scrubbed with the exception of a sole performance still scheduled for July 6 at NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race.

Management and publicity for the Black Keys did not respond to Variety ‘s requests for comment.

After news broke on Saturday that the tour had been canceled, the group posted on Instagram explaining that they had to reconfigure their tour to bring a similarly “exciting, intimate experience” for fans and that tickets for the original trek would be refunded in full.

“The band wants to assure everyone that Dan & Patrick are alive and well,” reads the caption. “Following the recent run of shows in the UK & Europe, including stops at iconic venues like Brixton Academy and the Zenith in Paris, we have decided to make some changes to the North American leg of the International Players Tour that will enable us to offer a similarly exciting, intimate experience for both fans and the band, and will be announcing a revised set of dates shortly.

Everyone who had purchased tickets and/or VIP to the initial tour dates will be fully refunded – and when the new plans are announced, will be the first to be able to buy tickets. Thank you for your understanding and apologies for the surprise change… We're pretty sure everyone is going to be excited when you see what we have in mind though, and look forward to seeing everyone soon.”

The Black Keys, which consists of Patrick Carney and Dan Auerbach, were set to kick off the tour in support of their most recent album “Ohio Players,” which released in April. On Wednesday, the pair appeared on NBC’s “The Voice,” where they performed “Beautiful People (Stay High).”

The band also recently debuted the documentary “This Is a Film About the Black Keys,” which had its world premiere at SXSW last month. The film explored the historical tensions between the bandmates as well as what united them. "We've figured each other out, for the most part,” said Auerbach in the doc. “We're just two very opinionated, hard-headed people, trapped for eternity together."

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The Black Keys Quietly Cancel International Players Tour 2024

A man in bluejeans, a brown top, a beard and a cap sits among gravestones painted blue. Behind him, men in black hats and suits bend over in prayer.

In a City of Ancient Jewish Mysticism, Israelis Arm for a Fight

In Safed, a center of kabbalah, ordinary citizens shocked by the Oct. 7 attacks are carrying military-grade weapons.

Prayers at Safed Old Jewish Cemetery this month. Credit...

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By Damien Cave

Photographs by Amit Elkayam

Reporting from Safed, an epicenter of Jewish mysticism.

  • Published May 23, 2024 Updated May 29, 2024, 11:32 a.m. ET

Eyal Ben-Ari tugged at the heavy assault rifle hanging over his shoulder as he tiptoed out of his pink house at sunrise, hoping not to wake his wife or six children.

Walking to synagogue in Safed, a hill town above the Sea of Galilee known for centuries as a center of kabbalah, or ancient Jewish mysticism, he said he still didn’t feel great about the gun.

Listen to this article with reporter commentary

Sleeping with the rifle under his pillow, he worried about it being stolen. After his 13-year-old son came home with a toy replica, Mr. Ben-Ari considered returning the real thing, doubting his decision to join the newly formed civilian militia that had given him the weapon.

“I feel like it’s very — artificial,” he said, struggling to find the right word in English, looking down at the gun. “It’s not human. It’s not life.”

At the synagogue, men with graying beards and black suits — all fellow members of the Chabad movement, an ultra-Orthodox sect of Judaism — slapped Mr. Ben-Ari on the back. They were happy to see him. Happy to see his gun. It was the only one there, but far from unique. In this small city near the Lebanon border, where Hezbollah’s rockets have often rained down in recent months, Israel’s deep sense of vulnerability has led to a surge of citizens arming themselves.

A man dressed in black pants, a white shirt and a black yarmulke bends over to take a pan out of the oven. A rifle hangs from his shoulder.

In Safed, as in the rest of Israel, people fear a repeat of Oct. 7, when gunmen with Hamas crossed from Gaza into Israel and killed 1,200 people in rural villages, army bases and cities, according to Israeli authorities. The police and the military were slow to respond that day. In many communities, the only ones fighting back were volunteers with rapid response teams that are known in Israel as Kitat Konenut.

Before the attack, much of Safed didn’t think it needed such a group. For decades, this city of 40,000 has drawn the very religious and very creative, those seeking to commune with nature, art and wine, or pray at Safed’s main landmark — a hillside cemetery where 16th-century rabbis lie in graves painted baby blue to signify bringing the sky and heaven down to earth. Madonna, a kabbalah convert, visited in 2009.

These days, tourists are too afraid to come. Safed, called Tzfat in Hebrew, now sees itself a city under siege, Israel in miniature, struggling to reconcile God, love, and light with grief, rage, fear and a craving for protection.

“People are concerned,” said Yossi Kakon, Safed’s mayor, in an interview at his office overlooking the city. “They want guns.”

He stood up. On his hip sat a black pistol, newly acquired.

100,000 New Guns

Guns, of course, have long been like stars of David in Israel: too common to discuss.

Military service is compulsory, and full-time soldiers and reservists are required to carry their weapons at all times, which means they show up in unexpected places: with backpack-laden students on public buses; bumping into the legs of fathers pushing strollers in Jerusalem; on the shoulders of young women by the beach in Tel Aviv.

The Kitat Konenut have also been woven into the country’s security fabric for decades. Many of the groups formed around kibbutzim and villages near Israel’s borders after the Arab-Israel war of 1967.

The earliest volunteers for the Kitat Konenut were often sharpshooters or veterans with elite military training. Over time, the groups seemed less necessary and as some of their old guns started to disappear to theft or loss, the Israel Defense Forces, or I.D.F., imposed tighter restrictions: guns had to be kept at an armory, with keys held by a trusted local leader.

On Oct. 7, some of those leaders were the first ones killed . Those who had guns saved lives. In the village of Pri Gan, Azri Natan, one Kitat Konenut fighter in his 70s, told me he held off gunmen for hours, alone, firing from behind a palm tree in his yard.

Stories like his led Israeli politicians to champion more arms for civilians. Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s right-wing national security minister, has made it a personal priority.

In March, after making the process for getting a gun easier and faster, he announced that 100,000 licenses had been approved since October. Another 200,000 were in the pipeline.

“Weapons save lives,” he said.

Critics, however, worry that even with Israel’s background checks and training requirements, too many guns are being given out with too little concern for how they might fuel internal tensions.

Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank are among those arming most rapidly, at a time when settler violence is at its highest level since the U.N. began recording attacks in 2006. And while hundreds of new rapid response teams have formed in municipalities that are majority Jewish, Arab communities — including those close to Israel’s borders — have not been granted the same leeway to form armed volunteer groups.

To many Arab Israelis, who make up about 20 percent of the country’s population, Mr. Ben-Gvir’s gun campaign looks like a threat — a politically motivated tool for intimidation or state-sanctioned violence, engineered by a government minister from a settlement, who has brandished a weapon in public and has several convictions for incitement to racism.

“Just thinking that Minister Ben-Gvir is behind this means that his motives are racist and anti-Arab,” said Asad Ghanem, a political science professor at the University of Haifa. Mr. Ben-Gvir’s spokesman did not respond to requests for comment.

Habib Daoud, the owner of a restaurant in Rameh, an Arab town near Safed, said, “People are afraid, yes, but we’re more afraid because the guns aren’t in our hands.”

Safed’s volunteer fighters insist their mission is purely defensive. With the exception of local colleges that draw students from across the area, the city’s Arab population — a prewar majority — has mostly fled, or been expelled since 1948, never to return, as part of what Palestinians call the Nakba. The old Arab Quarter is now the Artists’ Quarter. The main mosque is a gallery with white walls and chic lighting.

The threat, for Safed’s Jewish community, feels just over the horizon. It’s a community that has voted more strongly for right-wing parties like Mr. Ben-Gvir’s in recent years, and so for many now — especially without tourists around — time is spent preparing for the worst. Rabbis and civilian officials now carry pistols. Instead of praying or glassblowing with tour groups, residents are adding bomb shelters to schools. At a city government warehouse, shelves are packed with black flak jackets in shiny plastic.

In Safed, the responses to the war fall on an especially wide spectrum. At one end, there is unconditional love and Kabbalah’s emphasis on bringing light to the world, with expressions of sadness for the suffering in Gaza wrought by war sitting alongside a hunger for safety; at the other are dark visions — an apocalyptic belief that the Jews of Israel are at the start of a holy war, a bloody battle to end all wars and produce a Messiah.

‘We Can’t Rely on Anyone’

Mr. Ben-Ari falls somewhere in the hazy middle. At home one evening, his nurturing instincts were on display when one of his daughters accidentally tipped over a giant jar of instant coffee in the kitchen and he simply smiled at the powdery mess.

He grew up on a kibbutz. He said he became religious only after serving in the military and going to India with plans to become a yoga teacher. Now he laughs at the memory — “that was a long time ago,” he says — but with his faith and his job as a social worker, he still seems eager to make people feel better. The gun doesn’t exactly help.

“My clients, many of them, are afraid of it,” he said.

His wife, Lihi Ben-Ari, is too.

“I don’t like it,” she said, sitting at the kitchen table with two daughters sculpting clay.

“At first, it was fine — we were scared,” she said. “Now?”

She walked to a bedroom and pulled out the toy assault rifle belonging to their son, delivering a scolding glare that softened into a shrug of what-do–you-expect.

“The soldiers have become the superheroes,” she said. “Everyone wants to be like one.”

Mr. Ben-Ari, 44, said he was constantly telling his son that his military-grade weapon was just for defense, “that it’s not something we like.”

“It’s a duty,” he said.

That is also the argument made by Safed’s Kitat Konenut leaders. One night, Netanel Belams and Shmuel Tilles, described by city officials as the commander and deputy commander of the group, agreed to meet at a wine shop at the base of the Artists’ Quarter.

Mr. Tilles, the shop’s owner, greeted customers seeking craft beer or a nice Cabernet with “Shalom,” meaning peace, while holding a high-powered rifle with a red-dot sight for quick target acquisition at close range.

He and Mr. Belams hesitated to describe their previous military service but confirmed they had both worked with the special forces. Over craft beer in plastic cups, they explained that their mission now was simple.

As Mr. Tilles put it, speaking in English with the hint of a Bronx accent brought to Israel by his parents decades ago: “Our job is to bring security to our people.”

He said they effectively formed the Kitat Konenut on Oct. 7 when around 15 seasoned combat veterans in Safed, in close contact with the Israeli military, got ready in case Hezbollah decided to bring their own forces into Israel. When that didn’t happen, they made plans to officially form a rapid response team that would coordinate with the authorities in an attack.

More than 100 men volunteered. The commanders selected 60 to 70, favoring those with combat experience. The government provided weapons and paid for training, which they’ve done around once a week.

In photos of their sessions, most of the men — including Mr. Tilles and Mr. Belams — have the long beards associated with the Orthodox community, known as Haredi in Israel. They are a small minority in the Israeli military because of a longstanding exemption from conscription for those studying in seminaries, but their presence in Safed has been expanding for a while and the war has made them more unified and organized.

Politically, they mobilized a few months ago to elect Mr. Kakon — Safed’s first Haredi mayor. And with the Kitat Konenut, they have found a new community role. Terms like “religious Rambo” are now thrown around by secular officials in Safed with a degree of admiration.

And yet, in a crisis, it’s hard to tell how obedient they would be to the traditional chain of command. Mr. Belams in particular did not hide that he sees his role as ordained by God.

“After Oct. 7, we saw that we can’t rely on anyone — not the I.D.F., the police or the state,” he said. He added that he believed he was on the front line of a holy war that would bring about the end of times and the messiah’s coming to Earth.

“This is the start of Gog and Magog,” Mr. Belams said, referring to a battle prophesied in the Bible that some Jews believe will lead to Messianic redemption.

Mr. Tilles tried to make clear that fighting was not their first choice. “I’m into wine. I don’t even want to do this,” he said. “It’s only because of the threat.”

He added, however, that the same kabbalah tenets that tell him to “make this a place that God could dwell in with peace and love” also say that “when somebody comes to kill you, you’ve got to protect yourself first.”

Asked about the war in Gaza, he argued that because Hamas, in his view, teaches children to hate and murder Jews, Israel has to fight with an expansive definition of national defense.

“It’s a war over here. There’s no such thing as innocent,” he said. “You can’t say we have to give our enemies food in order for them to one day come back and kill us.”

For many of his neighbors, it is a question of priorities. Is Safed (or Israel) more likely to thrive by focusing on war and weapons, or through introspection and deeper change?

At a small gallery near the wine shop, Avraham Loewenthal, an artist and kabbalah devotee originally from Michigan, tried to elevate the conversation.

“The war is really between love and hatred — between focusing on the bad in others or trying to understand them and find the good,” he said. “Are we blaming others for all the bad in the world or striving to see how together we can make it better for everyone?”

He said he felt deep pain from the suffering of the people in Gaza and also that Israel has no choice but to keep fighting to disable Hamas and other terror groups. Asked if he was able to extend his unconditional love to those shooting rockets at Israel — in February an attack killed one soldier in Safed, and wounded eight more — he initially gave a roundabout answer. A few days later, he emailed a clarification.

“It is hard to believe there is goodness in people who are doing horrible things,” he wrote. “We need to do everything we can to stop them, but trying to see God in everyone is what we are here to do.”

Seeing Threats Among the Neighbors

At Mr. Ben-Ari’s home, the journey also continues. His wife is still struggling with how to reconcile her faith with his weapon.

“It’s not our way,” she said at one point.

Mr. Ben-Ari said he felt a little better knowing that his rabbi approved — he asked before joining the Kitat Konenut. But he still can’t shake the sadness of seeing divisions being sharpened. After the Hamas attack, one of his daughters started saying “I’m afraid the Arabs are going to take me.”

“She’s 4,” he said.

He admitted that after Oct. 7 he also lost “that safety feeling” around Arabs in Israel and elsewhere. Safed’s right-wing chief rabbi, Shmuel Eliyahu, has a long history of pushing for Jews to expel Arabs outright (his office declined interview requests), but Mr. Ben-Ari seemed heartbroken by his own personal shift. Fear, sadness, responsibility, he made clear, they were hardening hearts and daily life in Safed.

Did that mean he would keep the gun if or when the war ended?

The weapon sat in his lap, marked by two colorful stickers: one identifying the weapon and its owner as part of the Kitat Konenut; the other a symbol for the Chabad movement.

Mr. Ben-Ari paused and thought for a minute about the question. Then he said yes.

“The situation needs this,” he said, as his children played all around him. “It needs me.”

Adam Sella contributed reporting from Safed.

Read by Damien Cave

Audio produced by Jack D’Isidoro .

Damien Cave is an international correspondent for The Times, covering the Indo-Pacific region. He is based in Sydney, Australia.  More about Damien Cave

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

Israel’s military said its troops were pressing on with their ground assault of Rafah , even as international outrage  over its operation there intensified in the wake of a deadly airstrike  on a camp for displaced Palestinians.

The temporary pier that the U.S. military constructed and put in place to provide much-needed humanitarian aid for Gaza has broken apart in rough seas , the Pentagon said.

Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognized an independent Palestinian state . The previously announced moves by the three European nations are largely symbolic , but serve as a rebuke to Israel.

U.S. Military Aid Project: The Pentagon predicted that a stream of humanitarian aid would be arriving in Gaza via the floating pier, but little relief has reached the besieged strip .

Ari Emanuel’s Condemnation: The media executive condemned Netanyahu  for his leadership since the Hamas attack of Oct. 7, a conspicuous statement from one of Hollywood’s most powerful figures.

Amal Clooney Weighs In: The prominent human rights lawyer was on a panel that recommended arrest warrants  for leaders of Israel and Hamas. She had been criticized earlier for not speaking out on the war.

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