Take the good and leave the bad and there is mixed...

Take the good and leave the bad and there is mixed news here because while the renovation still looks fresh from 1986, the crowds have tripled and you'll go through security, airport style, twice before you get to even ascend to the pedestal, which you must reserve in advance if you plan to see.

Don't bother going to the crown because it's the same as it was in 1986 which is a claustrophobic circular staircase experience where someone's behind is in your face the whole way up. And the view from those weird-shaped tiny windows in her crown barely give a view of anything.

Naturally Lady Liberty is beautiful but the real treasure on this tour is Ellis Island and that's where you need to spend your time.