The Statue of Liberty, her torch upraised in welcome since 1886, was a gift to the US from the people of France. The 225-ton, 148ft colossus is the work of French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi and engineer Gustave Eiffel. The observation deck at the top affords spectacular city views, and the climb to the statue's crown is a quintessential New York experience. Access to Liberty Island and the statue is by ferry from Castle Clinton.