I was able to book my ferry ride to Ellis Island a...

I was able to book my ferry ride to Ellis Island and Liberty Island on the day of without too much prep in advance. Caught a ferry from Liberty State Park and was able to hop off at Ellis Island where I spent some time looking around the museum. Took another ferry to Liberty Island for views of The Statue of Liberty up close. I'd suggest booking tickets online and picking them up at the will call booth. There's food and cafes at both islands but you could also carry a picnic basket and enjoy on the grass.